The 6^th Annual Light Up Arlington took place this past Tuesday, July 3. The event was a huge success with over 40,000 people gathering in downtown Arlington to celebrate Independence Day. Citizens arrived at the Levitt Pavilion with blankets, lawn chairs, and coolers as early as 4:30pm to save a spot for the show. An array of food options were available from classic festival foods including funnel cakes, sausage on a stick, and kettle corn to an Arlington classic, Irish Nachos, provided by J. Gilligan's.

There was entertainment to suit everyone in the family. The Heather Roberts Band and The Spazmatics were featured at the Coors Light Stage located behind Central Library. Retail and informational vendor booths were located along side Abram Street. Boomtown Children's Area had countless activities including face painting, train rides, bounce houses, and a petting zoo to keep kids busy for hours. The headliner for the night was country-rock band Pure Prairie League followed by the national anthem and a spectacular fireworks show. With the pavilion seating packed, the street was soon overflowing with citizens to watch the sky light up as fireworks were shot off the top of City Hall.

Many attendees chose to engage with others and share photos on the events Facebook page. The event was very well received by the community. Jackie Cantrell posted, "The music was great the fireworks were one of the best shows ever. The company was the best and all I can say about the spread of food that was put out is WOW. We are very blessed to live in a city that offers this venue for families for FREE!" Many others shared her feelings with compliments on the food, bands, activities and fireworks.

Michael Debrecht, event organizer and Rental and Lake Services Manager for Arlington Parks and Recreation, stated "we are very appreciative of the staff and volunteers that contributed countless hours to make this event a success." He continued, "We are grateful for the Arlington Tomorrow Foundation making the fireworks show possible, for the Levitt Pavilion providing us with a great band, and for Texas Power, Exelon Generation, and our many other sponsors whose contributions make this all possible." Debrecht looks forward to next year's event being even bigger and better. He hopes you'll put July 3, 2013 on your calendar and plan to "come early, and stay late."