Super Bowl watch parties, pre-valentine festivities, chili cook-offs — it’s all on the menu this weekend. Let’s get into it.
Thursday, Feb. 5
Galentine’s Party at Fringe // The weekend kicks off in style at this beloved boutique in The Promenade at Chenal. Bring your girls and get in on new looks, discounts, mocktails and a first look at the Jackpot Jewelry Co. line. Come shop 4-7 p.m. Learn more here.
Individual Artist Fellowship Awards Celebration at the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center // Now in its 40th year, this Arkansas Arts Council event will once again showcase some of the most impactful artists from across the state (including Jose Hernandez, who we profiled in 2021). The evening includes live performances and food. Check it out 5-8 p.m. Learn more here.
Also on site: MTCC Releases Lineup of Black History Month Events
First Thursday Shop & Sip in Hillcrest // It’s the first Thursday of the month, and that means it’s time to get your shop ‘n’ sip on. Soak up the Kavanaugh vibes while you take advantage of the specials, later hours and extra fun. It kicks off at 5 p.m. Learn more here.
Thea Art Department: Joshua Asante at Thea Foundation // The popular series for Thea is back on the calendar. At this show opening, take in the mixed-media work of local artist Joshua Asante in his exhibit “Echoes From Here.” The art starts at 5 p.m. Learn more here.
Galentine’s Day at Sammy’s Bookshelf // The gal-fueled goodness continues at this indie bookstore with a night of games, snacks, drinks and a room full of new bookish besties. It lasts 6-7:30 p.m. Learn more here.
And that’s just the tip of the love iceberg: Your Guide to Valentine’s Day in Little Rock
Thursday – Saturday, Feb. 5-7
Classic Movies at Ron Robinson Theater // The popcorn is flowing once again at the CALS theater in the River Market. Up first is “Sinners” on Thursday and “Dreamgirls” on Friday, both at 7 p.m. Then on Saturday is “Osmosis Jones” at 12:30 p.m., followed by “National Theatre Live Presents: Dr. Strangelove” at 3 p.m. Learn more here.
Saturday, Feb. 7
National Ice Cream for Breakfast Day at Loblolly Creamery // Yes, this holiday is a real thing and is celebrated on the first Saturday of February, so of course Loblolly is going all in with breakfast-themed flavors like cereal milk. We may crash out from excitement, or maybe sugar overload, whichever gets us first. The scoops start at 9 a.m. Learn more here.
The Big Buzz Chili Cook-Off at the Arkansas State Fairgrounds // Let’s try this again, shall we? As part of the (rescheduled) Big Buck Classic expo, this annual cook-off returns with prizes for the winning teams and your chance to taste it all. Proceeds benefit Shriners Hospitals for Children. It starts at 9 a.m. and runs until the chili is gone. Learn more here.
Jurassic Jamboree at the Museum of Discovery // For the second weekend in a row, all the clever girls and boys are invited to get their fill of dino fun in the River Market where the MoD will be packed with hands-on experiences and experiments for little fossil lovers. Check it out 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Learn more here.
Roar some more: Dinosaur Adventure Stomps Into Town This Month
Black Family Expo at CALS Main Library // One of CALS’ most popular Black History Month events returns this weekend to celebrate deep community roots. Visitors can explore family history resources, preservation techniques, crafts, giveaways and more activities for all ages. Be there 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Learn more here.
Cake & Bubbles Picnic at Pettaway Commons // If you need more sweets in your life, here’s your chance to squeeze in some more dessert. Daisy Pastry Shoppe is hosting this afternoon above Pettaway Coffee with champagne, music and unlimited cake bites. Get your fill from noon – 3 p.m. Learn more here.
One more slice: Where to Get Your King Cake Fix in Little Rock
Saturday & Sunday, Feb. 7 & 8
Valentine’s Day Markets in Little Rock // The #shoplocal spirit is going strong this weekend with love in the air, and the market scene definitely got the memo. Hit up these pop-ups around town:
- Saturday Shop Vintage Valentine Market at The Bernice Garden, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Saturday
- Galentine’s Day Market at Pettaway Square, 1-4 p.m. Saturday
- Lost & Found Valentine’s Market at 1020 E. Sixth St., 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sunday
- Love at First Sprite: Misfit Maker Market at Fassler Hall, 1-6 p.m. Sunday
Need some inspo? Shop our Valentine’s Day Gift Guide.
Sunday, Feb. 8
Super Bowl Watch Parties in the Metro // We’ve got a pretty good guess as to what your Sunday night plans are. There are lots of places to watch the Seattle Seahawks take on the New England Patriots, many with menu specials to celebrate. A few of note include:
- The Rail Yard
- Tamalcalli
- Ol’Bart at Diamond Bear
- Bark Bar
- Brewski’s Pub & Grub
- Lost Forty Brewing
- Back Home Barbecue + Attic Bar
- Southern Tail Brewing
Hosting your own watch party? Try this: 3 Super Bowl Recipes That Make the Most of Your Favorite Beers