The heat is on, but so is the local fun with everything from baseball to antiques to K-pop. Let’s get into it.
Thursday, Aug. 20
Grand Opening at Library Square Books // Get excited, bookworms. The Central Arkansas Library System closed the doors on its used bookstore in the River Market before undergoing renovations on its Main campus. Now it’s back in a new space with a new vibe. Come shop and enjoy some treats and giveaways from 2-6 p.m. Learn more here.
Dr. Joycelyn Elders’ Lasting Legacy Panel at Arkansas Repertory Theatre // The Rep’s latest show depicting the life of the Arkansas native and U.S. Surgeon General is keeping the conversation going. Following Thursday’s performance, the theater will host a panel discussion titled “Dr. Joycelyn Elders’ Lasting Legacy: Expanding Access to Sexual and Reproductive Health in Arkansas Today” that features local voices continuing her work in public health. The show starts at 7 p.m. Learn more here.
More stage news: Acansa Arts Festival of the South Announces 2026 Lineup
Thursday – Sunday, Aug. 20-23
Arkansas Travelers vs. Springfield Cardinals at Dickey-Stephens Park // Play ball, y’all. The Travs take on the Cardinals in this week’s series, which features different specials each night like fireworks, bingo and even a Harry Potter night. Learn more here.
The outdoor fun continues: Where to Play Golf for Charity in Little Rock This Fall
Friday, Aug. 21
Third Friday Art Walk in Argenta // This monthly walk invites you to stroll through the Argenta Arts District’s lineup of special exhibits and events. Highlights include the Arkansas League of Artists’ annual exhibition at Laman Library, a Kayla Huffstutter pop-up at Caverns & Forests, a Concrete Roots pop-up at The Baker and an open studio with Et Alia Press, Bang-Up Betty and Lee Lee Arts + Design. Art Walk starts at 5 p.m. Learn more here.
Natural State of the Art: A Gallery Guide to Little Rock
Dad Rock Night at Stickyz Rock’n’Roll Chicken Shack // Stickyz is turning back the clock and turning up the volume with live covers of some of your favorite 2000s jams. Think: Creed, Nickleback, Foo Fighters, Shinedown and lots more. The nostalgia starts at 8 p.m. Learn more here.
PSA: The Best Dressed Ball may be sold out, but you can still get in on auction items to support the American Cancer Society – Arkansas Chapter. More on that here.
Friday & Saturday, Aug. 21 & 22
Classic Movies at Ron Robinson Theater // The popcorn is flowing once again at the CALS theater in the River Market. Up first is a BingoFlix screening of “Mars Attacks!” on Friday at 7 p.m. Then on Saturday is “The Princess Diaries” at 12:30 p.m., followed by “The African Queen” at 4 p.m. and “National Treasure” at 7 p.m. Learn more here. Bonus: Thursday’s lineup features the Dropping Hairpins Project’s program “The Lesbian Bar Project: Flinta.” More on that here.
Saturday, Aug. 22
10th Anniversary at Midtown Vintage Market // One of the city’s best vintage shops is marking a major milestone, and it’s doing it with storewide discounts, scavenger hunts and giveaways. Come shop 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Learn more here.
Ella Langley at Simmons Bank Arena // This weekend, she’s choosing Arkansas. The country music star is bringing an extended run of her Dandelion Tour to NLR, complete with special guests Ernest and Laci Kaye Booth. Showtime is 7 p.m. Learn more here.
Save the dates: Jazz in the Park Announces Fall Lineup
Saturday & Sunday, Aug. 22 & 23
Plantmania Expo at the Arkansas State Fairgrounds // This one’s for you, green thumbs. The traveling plant expo is stopping in LR for two days showcasing rare, exotic and popular houseplants. Shop vendors from around the world and get in on classes and workshops while you’re there. Expo hours are 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sunday. Learn more here.
A Royal Cat Show Extravaganza at the Maumelle Community Center // Looking for a purrfectly good way to spend a weekend? Hosted by the Crown Jewel Cat Club, this inaugural event promises two days of judged competitions (costumes included), vendors and more. The best part? A portion of proceeds go to local cat rescues. Check it out 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. both days. Learn more here.
Sunday, Aug. 23
Golden! A K-Pop Kids Party at The Hall // If Huntrix was ever on loop at your house, listen up. This traveling concert/dance party brings all the K-pop vibes for all ages, and yes, dressing up is encouraged. Showtime is 11 a.m. Learn more here.
More all-ages activities: Putt Chip Chill Tees Up Grand Opening in North Little Rock