The countdown is on. April 10-13, 2025, marks the return of Fort Worth’s ultimate celebration of creativity, community, and culture—the 38th annual MAIN ST. Fort Worth Arts Festival. Over four days, the heart of downtown will morph into an immersive, vibrant playground spanning 18 square blocks, buzzing with art, music, food, and unforgettable moments. Best of all? It’s free to join in the fun.
Here’s what you need to know, along with some last-minute tips, so you can dive right in to the colorful chaos of #MainSt2025.
What’s New in 2025?
Every year, the festival steps it up — and this time, it’s no different.
Expanded Artist Lineup: The festival’s art scene has never been bigger. This year, 219 jury-selected artists will display their work in 15 distinct media, from ceramics to photography to mixed media. Featured artists like Elissa Brown (mixed media) and Amy Walker Davis (jewelry) bring their A-game to the streets, alongside a fresh batch of Merit Award-winners. It’s a celebration of both established and up-and-coming creatives who’ll be sharing their masterpieces with the world.
Live Music Gets Bigger: Over 50 musical acts will take the stage, including new additions like the UTA West Stage. You’ll hear everything from jazz funk to rock and soul, with headliners like Jazz Funk Soul, Jackie Venson, Payton Howie, and AHYONZ featuring Kenya C. Get ready for spontaneous dance parties and electric performances.
Expanding Your Palate: With five food courts scattered around the festival, you’ll be eating your way through a Texas-sized menu of barbecue, Tex-Mex, gourmet burgers, and international cuisine. Pair your meal with a local craft brew or a chilled mojito from the Wine Pavilion—it’s a food lover’s paradise.
Family Fun: There’s something for all ages, with hands-on workshops like pottery making and drone courses, plus a special nature journaling experience inspired by Jane Goodall, presented by the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History. The TCC Makers Zone brings out the creative spirit in all of us, whether you’re sketching or leaf rubbing.
A Pirate Ship, Yes, You Read That Right: Studio 80 is bringing the party to Main Street with a real-life, LED-lit, 40-foot pirate ship. Dance under the stars on Friday and Saturday nights while DJ Dr. Rock spins 80s classics during a laser show that will make you feel like you’re stepping into a neon dream.
Art Contest with Local Flair: Fort Worth high school seniors are showing off their artistic chops in the "Fort Worth Beauty" Art Contest, with $250 to $1,000 cash prizes. You’ll get to vote for your favorite pieces, so don’t miss it.
Eco-Friendly Transportation: Skip the parking hassle. Use Trinity Metro’s TEXRail or buses with discounted day passes available through the GoPass app. Ride, relax, and leave the car behind.
Getting There
Let’s talk logistics. Downtown Fort Worth will be bustling, so taking public transportation is highly recommended.
Trinity Metro and TEXRail: These services will run all weekend, including a special Sunday train for the festival’s last day. Fort Worth Central Station is just two blocks from the action.
Molly the Trolley: The free trolley will shuttle festival-goers between key locations, operating from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. each day.
Bikes, Buses, and Rideshares: If two wheels are more your style, use one of 14 bike-sharing stations. If you prefer a bus, routes like 1, 2, and 5 will get you close. For rideshare pickups, look for Houston, Commerce, and Throckmorton Streets.
Street Closures and Parking
Street closures will begin Monday, April 7, and will continue through Monday, April 14. Be sure to check out the full list of closures and parking options on the official festival website so you can plan ahead.
But here’s a quick cheat sheet: Parking is free after 6 p.m. Thursday and Friday, and all day Saturday and Sunday at select spots, including City Center Garage #2, 777 Main Parking Garage, and The Tower Garage.
Festival Hours and Info
Don’t miss out—this festival has something for everyone. Here’s when you can check it out:
- Thursday, April 10: 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.
- Friday, April 11: 10 a.m. – 11 p.m.
- Saturday, April 12: 10 a.m. – 11 p.m.
- Sunday, April 13: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Pro tip: Artists close their booths a bit earlier, so plan accordingly.
