A weekend brimming with activities is on tap for Arlington, as families, art enthusiasts, and music lovers alike have a plethora of events to choose from.
The Forever Forest exhibit, an initiative by the Omaha Children’s Museum, will take root at River Legacy Nature Center until Feb. 10, offering an interactive exploration of forest ecosystems and sustainable practices. The exhibit features climbing structures, a Union Pacific engine replica, and an educational segment on the uses of wood in daily life. Meanwhile, on Fridays, the George W. Hawkes Downtown Library invites toddlers and preschoolers for a morning of play-based learning called Little Explorers. Ages 1-4 can engage in activities sculpted around art, math, and more, according to the City of Arlington, Texas.
Similarly educational, the Southeast Branch Library hosts Family Storytime which aims to engage 2-5-year-olds with books, songs, and activities each Friday morning. For a more adult-oriented affair, the River Legacy Nature Center on Jan. 19 promises an Artini event where attendees can craft their antler dreamcatchers while enjoying refreshments.
As for the musically inclined, the UTA Planetarium will resonate with the melodies of the Panther City Quartet on the evening of Jan. 19, a performance featuring everything from classical to contemporary cello and symphonic metal compositions. This event, inclusive of refreshments, serves as an auditory haven for those seeking respite amid a bustling weekend.
Catalyst Creative Arts takes participants through making a "Bamboo" Handbuilt Pottery Vase over three sessions spanning Jan. 19, 20, and 27. For culinary explorers, the Southeast Branch Library's Spice Club introduces Nutmeg on Dec. 16, giving spice aficionados a chance to learn and take home a piece of culinary history.
Creative tech buffs can hit the Tinker Room at the downtown library to master the Cricut Design Space Software for crafting custom designs. On Saturday afternoon, local talent Ruby Leigh of "The Voice 2023" fame takes the stage at Arlington Music Hall, while the Atlanta Rhythm Section with guest DEFRANCE keeps the tunes rolling later in the evening.
The vibrant colors of water marbling await attendees at Catalyst Creative Arts where a hands-on class on Jan. 20 allows participants to create custom silk scarves. Equally colorful, though in a different spectacle, is the ultimate UFC 297 viewing party, Fight Night Live!, at Texas Live! the same evening.
Finally, Feral Cat Sunday on Jan. 21 offers a Trap-Neuter-Return event by Arlington Animal Services, and UTA Day at the Rodeo presents a full-blown Western experience, complete with a show and barbecue lunch. The weekend in Arlington is bustling with creativity, culture, and community collaboration.
