Live music, fashion and outdoor fun await.
Editor’s note: As COVID-19 cases surge and hospitals fill up, remember to go out into the city safely and responsibly. Keep your distance, wear a mask indoors and get vaccinated.
Thursday, Aug. 5
First Thursday Shop & Sip in Hillcrest // It’s the first Thursday of the month, and you know what that means — time to get your Hillcrest shop ‘n’ sip on. Soak up the Kavanaugh vibes while you take advantage of the discounts, later hours and live music. Even more good news? The Hillcrest entertainment district on First Thursdays got extended to October. Learn more here.
Read on: New Entertainment District Coming to Downtown, Hillcrest Receives Extended Approval
Friday, Aug. 6
Bright Night at Big Rock Mini Golf and Fun Park // Giving back = go-karts. At least tonight, that is. This annual event benefits Methodist Family Health with a family-friendly night full of food, go-karts, mini golf and more, including an aerial ropes course. The fun starts at 5 p.m. Learn more here.
Bloom: A Seasonal Fashion Showcase at Oak Forest Vintage // It’s all about style at this event by La Rosa Antigua and Creators’ Village. The evening will highlight local designers, stylists and vintage shop owners, and you can bring home some of your favorite pieces. Be there 6-8 p.m. Learn more here.
The Art Department Presents Layet Johnson at the Thea Foundation // The popular quarterly series for Thea returns for the first time since February 2020. At this exhibit opening, take in the work of Little Rock native and illustrator Layet Johnson. The art starts at 6:30 p.m. Learn more here.
Saturday, Aug. 7
Arkansas Day of the Disc at Hindman Park // How’s your aim? Try it out at this tourney celebrating National Disc Golf Day. Teams will battle it out to win the $500 grand prize, and The Brunch Wagon will be on site for lunch. Players meet at 8:40 a.m. Learn more here.
Community Day at Wildwood Park for the Arts // Time for some outdoor family fun. This monthly event includes free activities for kiddos, performances, vendors and catch-and-release fishing. Stop by 10 a.m. – noon. Learn more here.
Summer Soulstice X at The Rep Warehouse // The space at 714 S. State St. is putting out strong summertime vibes. A team effort from record label Quiet Contender and nonprofit Center for Cultural Community, this event features sets from local musicians, booths from local makers, eats from Lili’s food truck and drinks from Lost Forty. It all starts at 4 p.m. Masks required. Learn more here.
Memphis Soul Revue Benefit Concert at The Rev Room // More music, please. From just across the Mississippi, this popular band is bringing the party to benefit two local nonprofits: Our House and the Downtown Little Rock Partnership. Doors open at 7 p.m. Learn more here.
Ashley McBryde at the Robinson Center // The shows don’t stop. This rising star is known for bringing her rowdy, rock and roll style to the world of country music, winning CMA and ACM awards in the process. Showtime is 8 p.m. Learn more here.
Sunday, Aug. 8
Sunday Funday at Rusty Tractor Vineyards // Now this is one (delightful) way to beat the heat. Frozen drink specials await, plus beer, wine, bloody marys and mimosas, along with live music from Christine DeMeo. Stop by noon – 6 p.m. Learn more here.
Foreigner at Simmons Bank Arena // The jukebox heroes are in the house. These rock icons have 10 multi-platinum albums and are responsible for classic rock anthems like “I Want to Know What Love Is,” “Feels Like the First Time” and “Hot Blooded.” Showtime is 7 p.m. Learn more here.
Saturday & Sunday, Aug. 7 & 8
Tax Free Weekend in Arkansas // That’s right, shoppers. The annual back-to-school blessing is upon us once again. For two days only, you can skip the state and local sales taxes on items like clothing, electronics, accessories, office/school supplies and more. Don’t forget to shop local! Learn more here.
Creative Workshops at Bella Vita Jewelry // If you’re looking to try something new this summer, here’s your chance. The downtown shop is hosting a full lineup of classes all season long. Try your hand at dried flower arrangements with Alchemy Atelier on Saturday or learn how to make beaded mantra bracelets on Sunday. Learn more here.
Friday-Sunday, Aug. 6-8
Paws at the Net Tournament at Rebsamen Tennis Center // It’s a love-love situation. This three-day, USTA-sanctioned, downright adorable tennis tournament benefits Central Arkansas Rescue Effort for Animals. Attendees will enjoy competitive matches, food, drinks, vendors, auctions and more, including the chance to meet some of CARE’s rescued cats and dogs that are up for adoption. Learn more here.