To mark the 300th anniversary of the French’s discovery of “la petite roche,” or the “little rock” that gave the Little Rock region its name, a team of community volunteers is hosting La Petite Roche Tricentennial, a year-long series of events.
The celebration kicks off this month with 17 events over the course of 12 days. From historical lectures and kid-friendly activities to a community concert and fireworks, La Petite Roche Tricentennial has something for everyone.
Here are the top four Tricentennial events you won’t want to miss.
1. La Petite Roche at the Museum of Discovery
April 6-12, times vary
Help your kids understand this milestone anniversary with hands-on activities at the MoD. The museum will host a boat building and design activity in the PPG STEAM Studio (April 6-12) and a Little Rock-themed geology activity for ages six and younger (April 5, 7 and 9). For details, call 501.396.7050.
2. On the Rocks Talks: Finding the French Rock
April 8, 5 p.m. | Stickyz Rock ‘n’ Roll Chicken Shack
Dr. David Ware of the Arkansas State Archives will lead a discussion on Jean-Baptiste Bénard de la Harpe’s discovery of the French Rock. This event is free, and registration is not required. Learn more here.
3. Family Fair
April 9, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Riverfront Park and the Museum of Discovery
Enjoy kids’ activities including bounce houses, a rock-climbing wall, a spinning ride and a swinging pirate ship, not to mention the food trucks. There will also be a heritage fair featuring cultural offerings from the Early Arkansaw Reenactors Association and indigenous organizations.
4. Arkansas-Themed Concert and Fireworks Celebration
April 9, 7 – 9:30 p.m. | First Security Amphitheater
Round out the anniversary weekend with this free community concert and fireworks display. Groove to the music of The Rodney Block Collective, Randall Shreve and the DeVilles and Huckleberry Jam, plus a special performance by the Philander Smith College Collegiate Choir and Creatives. Gates open at 6 p.m. Lawn chairs and blankets are welcome.
For a complete list of La Petite Roche Tricentennial events, click here.
Read on: Explore the history (and transformation) of la petite roche in our April issue.