You Ain't Heard Nothin' Yet – Top 10 Music Spots in Garland

Garland's music scene hits all the right notes. Whether you're into symphonies, singer-songwriters, blues, Latin rhythms, or indie beats, the city offers a sound for every ear. From outdoor pavilions to historic theaters and lively restaurant patios, Garland's music venues showcase both local legends and emerging talent.

And now, we have the accolades to back it up—the Texas Music Office has officially designated Garland a Music Friendly Texas Certified Community,, becoming one of over 80 cities across the state to earn this prestigious recognition. This designation celebrates Garland's rich musical legacy, its support for local musicians and businesses, and music's deep role in shaping community pride and economic vitality.

🎉 "Receiving the Music Friendly Texas Community designation is a proud moment for Garland," says Cultural Arts Director Amy Rosenthal. "We host live music year-round, from outdoor concerts to jam sessions and symphonic performances. Music is woven into the fabric of our city, and this recognition helps us keep that rhythm going strong."

Ready to discover the places that helped put Garland on the map? Here are the Top 10 Music Spots in Garland—venues and experiences where the city's musical spirit comes alive.

Image courtesyJim Bird

1. 🎭 Granville Arts Center

Located in the heart of the Bankhead Cultural Arts District, the Granville Arts Center is Garland's performing arts pulse. Its Brownlee Auditorium hosts sold-out concerts, symphonies, theatrical productions, dance recitals, and community events throughout the year. It's a must-visit for anyone looking to experience high-caliber performances in a premiere venue.

📍 Location: 300 N Fifth St, Garland, TX

🎟️ Events: View Schedule

2. 🎞️ Plaza Theatre

Step into a beautifully restored 1940s-era theater that blends historic charm with modern acoustics. The Plaza Theatre is an iconic centerpiece in downtown's music and arts culture, frequently hosting live music, musical theater, film nights, and comedy shows. Its intimate atmosphere makes every performance feel special.

📍 Location: 521 W State St, Garland, TX

🎟️ Events: Visit Plaza Theatre

3. 🎶 Music Made Here Concert Series

The Music Made Here Concert Series brings exceptional music talent from across the country to the heart of Downtown Garland. Held on the first Friday of each month, this free, family-friendly event transforms the Downtown Square into an open-air concert venue showcasing national, regional, and touring artists. Enjoy an evening of incredible live music alongside downtown dining, drinks, and family activities.

Past performers have included Grammy-nominated acts and rising stars from genres ranging from soul and blues to pop, country, Mexican Regional, and funk. This series is a significant part of Garland's music calendar with the historic Plaza Theatre, Granville Arts Center, and scenic Downtown Square as its backdrop.

📍 Location: Downtown Garland
📅 Monthly (First Fridays)
💸 Free
🎟️ See Full Lineup

4. 🎤You Ain’t Heard Nothin’ Yet Concert Series

Don't miss this seasonal spotlight on emerging artists as the Downtown Garland Square transforms into an open-air concert venue every Thursday in April, May, September, and October. The "You Ain't Heard Nothin' Yet" series is your front-row ticket to fresh, new talent in a festive, community-focused setting.

📍 Location: Downtown Garland Square Pavilion

📅 Thursdays, April–May

💸 Free

🎟️ See Full Lineup

5. 🍹 Intrinsic Smokehouse & Brewery Patio

Good beer and great music go hand in hand at Intrinsic Smokehouse & Brewery. Their patio regularly hosts local musicians, creating a casual and inviting scene. Expect craft brews, smoked meats, and a variety of live acts—from acoustic duos to full bands.

📍 Location: 509 W State St, Garland, TX

🎶 Check Schedule: Intrinsic Facebook Event Page

6. 🌮 Tuesdays at Dos Banderas

This lively Tex-Mex favorite turns up the volume every Tuesday night with live music performances. Enjoy tacos and tunes as part of the Downtown Garland music trail. From mariachi to mellow jazz, the vibe here is always upbeat and delicious.

📍 Location: 614 Main St, Garland, TX

🎤 Weekly shows: Tuesdays

🎶 Check Schedule: Dos Banderas Facebook Page

7. 🍕 Fortunate Son

Saturday from 7 to 10 p.m., Fortunate Son delivers a perfect pairing of live music and handcrafted pizza on their beautifully lit patio. Guests can expect a rotating lineup of rock, blues, and country acts while sipping $5 static drafts or $6 frozen cocktails. It's the ultimate chill night for music lovers and foodies alike.

📍 Location: 500 Main St, Garland, TX

📅 Weekly shows: Saturdays, 7–10 p.m.

8. 🎸 Jimmy Wallace Guitars

More than a retail shop, Jimmy Wallace Guitars is a living museum of vintage instruments and a hub for Garland's music community. Founded by Jimmy Wallace—a celebrated guitarist, luthier, and organizer of the Dallas International Guitar Festival—this beloved store hosts live in-store performances, artist meet-and-greets, and jam sessions that blend education and entertainment.

Step inside and you'll find legendary guitars, passionate musicians, and a shared love for the art of sound. It's a must-visit for gearheads, collectors, and anyone who believes music is more than a sound—it's a way of life.

📍 Location: 514 Main St, Garland, TX

🎸 More info: jimmywallaceguitars.com

9. 💿 Dead Wax

New to Downtown Garland, Dead Wax is a record store reimagined as a music lover's haven. Featuring a built-in stage and plans to host live performances, it offers an immersive experience where you can browse vintage vinyl while enjoying live sets by local artists. It's more than shopping—it's a full-on cultural vibe.

📍 Location: 519 Main St, Garland, TX

📅Event Information Coming Soon

10. 🎉 Garland Festivals & Music Events

Many of Garland's major annual festivals include live music stages, where you can hear everything from R&B to cultural and folk music. Don't miss:

Juneteenth Celebration – Featuring African American artists and community performances
Asian American Heritage Festival – With traditional and contemporary music
Red, White & You – A patriotic blowout with fireworks and tunes
Fall Fest & Guzzler .5k Run – Live bands and lively celebration
Día de los Muertos – A vibrant cultural event featuring traditional altars, art displays, festive music, and live performances honoring loved ones
Christmas on the Square – A magical seasonal experience with carolers, live entertainment, and holiday cheer

📍 Locations vary

📅 Year-round

🎟️ See Full Event Lineup

🎤 Why the Music-Friendly Texas Certification Matters

Garland's official Music Friendly Texas designation, awarded by the Texas Music Office, recognizes our commitment to the music industry and arts as drivers of economic growth and cultural connection. As Mayor Scott LeMay puts it:

"Music has always been a big part of who we are... from the Garland Band in the early 1900s to the Square Pickers' weekly bluegrass jams and the legendary Audio Dallas Recording Studio. In Garland, we believe music brings people together and makes our community an even better place to live."

This honor positions Garland as a top destination for artists, entrepreneurs, and music lovers—and we're just getting started.

Whether grooving at a festival, enjoying local talent under the stars, or catching a classic show in our historic theater, Garland offers a melody for every mood. Plug into the city's vibrant music scene—you truly ain't heard nothin' yet.