AURORA Biennial 2026 EXHIBITION: Know Before You go

Tramaine Townsend, SALLAD, installation view at the AURORA Biennial 2024. Photo by Can Turkyilmaz.


We’ve put together a few handy tips to make the most of your visit to AURORA’s signature outdoor exhibition on November 21, 2026.

While you’re there, be sure to explore Downtown Dallas—you’ll find plenty of great dining, accomodation, shopping, and entertainment options.

Follow @DallasAURORA on Instagram, Facebook, X, TikTok, and LinkedIn to stay up to date with all event news, and don’t forget to tag us in your own posts about what you experience at the AURORA Biennial!

When?

Saturday, November 21, 2026; 7 pm–1 am

Where?

AURORA’s signature showcase of technology-driven creative practices unfolds across three iconic Downtown Dallas locations:

• Dallas City Hall
  
• J. Erik Jonsson Central Library
  
• AT&T Discovery District

There is no designated entry point. You are welcome to explore the exhibition area freely, moving between the different areas at your own pace.

How much does it cost?

The exhibition is FREE and open to the public with prior registration. Click here to register. 

There are costs associated with parking as well as for food and beverages.

WHAT IS THE DRESS CODE?

For this outdoor exhibition spread across a large, walkable area, we recommend wearing comfortable shoes and dressing appropriately for the weather so you can fully enjoy the experience.

CAN I TAKE DART?

Yes – in fact, we encourage it as DART is AURORA’s official transportation provider! You can take the Red or Blue Line to the Convention Center Station. Check out the DART website for more details.

Where do I park and how much does it cost?

Discounted parking will be available for $5 to the general public in 1600-1700 Canton Street.

You can set up parking upon arrival:

• Head to 1600 or 1700 Canton Street
  
• Scan the QR code
  
• Select "nightly"
  
• Enter your license plate and enter the parking code “Lightshow”
  

In addition to this option, which is the most affordable, there are plenty of lots and garages around the event site. This website is a great resource for assessing all your parking options. 

We encourage carpooling or ridesharing to get to the exhibition area.  

WHERE IS THE BOX OFFICE?

There is no box office, as tickets are not required to attend the exhibition. However, informational tents will be located throughout the exhibition area. Feel free to stop by to pick up a map, get directions, or ask our team any questions.

Will there be food and beverages?

Food and beverages will be available for purchase at The Exchange Food Hall (AT&T Discovery District).

On Young Street, food trucks will be open throughout the evening, offering additional food and drink options.

Visitors are welcome to carry their non-alcoholic beverages throughout the exhibition area.

Alcoholic beverages may only be consumed in designated areas: the AT&T Discovery District and the fenced bar located at the front side of Dallas City Hall.

WHAT ITEMS AM I ALLOWED TO BRING?

Small bags and backpacks are allowed.

WHAT ITEMS AM I NOT ALLOWED TO BRING?

Chairs, signs, anything that could be considered a weapon of any kind (gun, knife, large stick, projectiles, etc.), graffiti pens, or spray paint. Use good judgement here. We reserve the right to disallow any other items we deem inappropriate, dangerous, or inconvenient to other people attending the exhibition.

Where can I learn more about this event?

Click here to learn more about the Biennial.

What is AURORA?

AURORA is a Dallas-based public arts organization working at the intersection of art, technology, and community to present the work of some of the most visionary artists of our time and connect diverse communities through transformative public art experiences.

Through the AURORA Biennial and the year-round Expanded programming, the organization advances Dallas’ position as a global center for art and technology.

AURORA was founded in 2010 by artists Shane Pennington and Joshua King, along with veteran Dallas arts supporter Veletta Forsythe Lill. 

how Can I Help?

Explore the volunteer opportunities here and sign up for the preferred role. Whether welcoming guests, supporting artists, or helping create memorable moments, your contribution will play an essential role in bringing the exhibition to life and ensuring a joyful experience for the tens of thousands of visitors expected to attend.

Make a donation to help AURORA continue making Dallas a place for connection and discovery, where transformative cultural experiences are free and accessible to all. Through your gift, we can continue elevating boundary-pushing artists, expanding access to art and technology, and generating meaningful cultural and economic impact for North Texas.