Ah, yes. There are school bells in the very near future, but this weekend we’re focusing on local fun instead. Let’s get into it.
Thursday, Aug. 8
Summer Concert Series at The Promenade at Chenal // For the past month, the WLR shopping center has been bringing the fun, and now it’s closing out the series with tunes from DJ JJ and flavors from Lost Forty, The Breezy Scoop and Top Dog Catering. Stop in 6-8 p.m. Learn more here.
Friday, Aug. 9
2nd Friday Art Night in Downtown Little Rock // It’s 2FAN time, aka the monthly lineup of downtown businesses opening their doors for after-hours artistic fun. Highlights this month include the annual Soul Explosion music festival at the Old State House Museum, art vendors at the CALS Rock It! Lab, a visit from the Loblolly Truck at Bella Vita and live music and back-to-school-themed games at the Historic Arkansas Museum. 2FAN runs 5-8 p.m. Learn more here.
“Jitney” Opening Night at the Arkansas Repertory Theatre // 1970s Pittsburgh comes to life on this downtown stage in The Rep’s latest production. The “humor-filled drama” tells the story of unlicensed taxi drivers navigating life and dodging city officials. Showtime is 8 p.m. Learn more here.
More on stage: Little Rock’s Fall Performing Arts Preview
Saturday, Aug. 10
Grand Opening at Shop Simple Designs // The river banks are getting another dose of style. Set in the former Cajun’s Wharf, this new once-a-month shopping event transforms the space into a showroom filled with furniture ranging from everyday necessities to luxury pieces. Come shop 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. Learn more here.
Wingstock at Simmons Bank Arena // Hold on to your honey mustard. The foodie festival is back after five years with restaurants and vendors battling it out to win the coveted Golden Wing Award. Get your fill of top notch wings and wash it all down with a variety of domestic and craft beers, then enjoy the music and giveaways until you’re ready for another round. The wings fly from noon – 3 p.m. Learn more here.
More foodie news: Local Updates You May Have Missed Over the Summer
Second Saturdays Open Studios at Park Plaza Mall // A mall may seem an unlikely place to take in high-quality art, but Zero Empty Spaces has changed that. The movement helps growing artists set up studios in, well, empty spaces across the country. This monthly open house gives guests a chance to explore and find a new favorite local artist. Stop by noon – 5 p.m. Learn more here.
Friday & Saturday, Aug. 9 & 10
Classic Movies at Ron Robinson Theater // The popcorn is flowing once again at the CALS theater in the River Market. Up first is “Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom” on Friday, then a triple feature on Saturday with “The NeverEnding Story,” National Theatre Live’s “King Lear” starring Ian McKellen and closing out with “Pulp Fiction.” Learn more here.
Thursday – Sunday, Aug. 8-11
The Reel Queer Film Festival at The Studio Theatre // Formerly the Kaleidoscope Film Festival, this annual event is marking its 10th year with a rebrand, but its mission remains the same: to “[celebrate] the diversity of the LGBT community and filmmakers by presenting poignant and thought-provoking films documenting LGBT lives truthfully and with respect.” We’re in. The 2024 fest includes multiple screenings and events, including the return of the popular brunch screening. Learn more here.
Edgar Allan Poe Speakeasy at the Albert Pike Masonic Center // Spooky season, is that you? This touring experience will transform the historic space for a riveting retelling of Poe’s most famous tales while a “macabre mixologist” serves up cocktails to pair with each one. Learn more here.