The Natural State has plenty of cultural and natural heritage to celebrate, and every May, the Department of Arkansas Heritage takes the time to celebrate that proud legacy.
The month-long celebration includes festivals, workshops, tours and much more throughout the state. This year’s theme is “Celebrating the Flavors of Arkansas: Come To The Table.”
The first event is the Fabulous First Thursday Lunch in Helena at the Pillow Thompson House. The luncheon showcases caterers from the Delta and great food.
Here’s a rundown of events around Little Rock:
- Preservation Crustaceans, 6-8:30 p.m., May 1, at the Argenta Plaza, 502 Main St., North Little Rock: The Historic Preservation Alliance of Arkansas for “Hot Bugs, Cold Beer and Old Buildings” holds this annual event that works to build stronger communities in Arkansas by reconnecting residents to the heritage of Arkansas, and also saving and rehabilitating historic places. Proceeds from the event benefit HPAA. Click here for more information.
- Sandwiching in History Tour, 12-1 p.m., May 2, at the Columbus Owen O’Kelley House, 413 W. 5th St., Little Rock: Receive a free tour of this historic Little Rock home. For more information on the event, click here.
- Arkansas Heritage Month Kickoff, 10 a.m., May 3, Historic Arkansas Museum, 200 E. 3rd St., Little Rock: Celebrate Arkansas Heritage Month as this year’s theme is introduced, and poster is unveiled. The event will also preview the month’s annual Territorial Fair. For more information, call 324-9150, or visit www.ArkansasHeritage.org.
- It’s in the Bag Lunch ‘n Learn Series, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., May 6, Mosaic Templars Cultural Center, 501 W. 9th St., Little Rock: The MTCC’s luncheon series gives guests a discussion on a variety of topics to educate, inspire and entertain. Speakers include Melanie Lacy, Rodney Cummings and Rosalia Monroe. Must bring your own lunch, but drinks are provided. The luncheon is free to attend.
- Second Friday Art Night, 5-8 p.m., May 9, Historic Arkansas Museum, 200 E. 3rd St., Little Rock: Guests enjoy exhibits, live music, food and drink. For more information, call 324-9351.
- Quapaw Quarter Association’s 50th Spring Tour, May 10-11, Governor’s Mansion Historic District, Little Rock: This spring tour will include a Saturday evening candlelight tour and dinner, and a Sunday afternoon tour of private homes and the Governor’s Mansion. For more information, visit www.Quapaw.com.
- Everything Old is New Again: The Arkansas Foodways Movement, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., May 17, Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management Institute at Pulaski Technical College, Little Rock: This seminar, including speakers Jody Hardin, Suzanne Campbell, Tim Nutt and Kat Robinson will talk about Arkansas foodways and history. Lunch will be served by chefs-in-training at the institute. Deadline for registration is May 5. For more information, visit www.Ark-Ives.com.
For a full list of events, check the schedule. For more information, click here.