The lineup spans from crawfish boils to cat shows this weekend. Let’s get into it.
Editor’s note: As COVID-19 continues to take a toll on Little Rock, remember to go out into the city safely and responsibly. Keep a safe distance, wear a mask when needed and get vaccinated.
Thursday, Feb. 17
Six Bridges Presents: Chip Jones // The 2022 Six Bridges Book Festival may still be a good way away, but this should help tide you over. Jones will be discussing his book “The Organ Thieves: The Shocking Story of the First Heart Transplant in the Segregated South,” an investigation into racial inequality in the operating room. The livestream starts at 6:30 p.m. Learn more here.
Friday, Feb. 18
Crawfish Boil at The Rail Yard // Mudbugs are back, y’all. The East Village joint is getting the season started early with loads of crawfish, corn, potatoes and sausage, along with all the other goodness you expect from Count Porkula. The eats begin at 5 p.m. Learn more here.
Need dessert? Where to Get Your King Cake Fix in Little Rock
Saturday, Feb. 19
Little Rock Cat Show at the Arkansas State Fairgrounds // So you’ve had too many average Saturdays, huh? This will fix that. For the first time since 2001, the Arkansas Feline Fanciers show is back and ready to give you a day of judged competitions (costumes included), vendors and more festivities that are just the cat’s meow. Be there 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Learn more here.
3rd Saturday at Historic Arkansas Museum // Time for some time travel. HAM’s latest series is back giving guests an immersive opportunity to learn about life in the early days of Arkansas. This month’s event is about party planning in 1848 Little Rock. Stop by 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Learn more here.
Black History Month Town Hall at A Touch of Quality Event Center // Hosted by The Reform Alliance, this free event offers the chance to hear from Denisha Merriweather, the founder of Black Minds Matter, as well as academic historian Edmond Davis and social activist Tim Campbell. Plus, Rodney Block and local students will be on hand to provide live music. It starts at 1 p.m. Learn more here.
Arkansas Made Black Crafted at the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center // Wallets at the ready. As part of its Black History Month programming, the MTCC is spending the afternoon showcasing Arkansas creators in its gift shop and hosting special flash sales. Check it out 1-5 p.m. Learn more here.
Don’t stop there: Spend the Day in Black-Owned Little Rock
Sunday, Feb. 20
Sip & Swap at The Hall // Let’s try this again. After rescheduling due to winter weather, you now have the chance to get rid of fashions you no longer want and go home with some fresh new finds. The entry fee is $5 or a bag of clothing to swap, plus the bar will be open for your sipping needs. Proceeds and any un-swapped items will be donated to Youth Home, Our House and Goodwill. Be there noon – 5 p.m. Learn more here.
Cast Party Cabaret at The Studio Theatre // Also back on after rescheduling is the return of this night of stage-worthy fun. The theater’s cabaret series is back featuring local performers singing some of Broadway’s most-loved songs in the Lobby Bar. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Masks required. Learn more here.
Even more rescheduling news: Ron Robinson Theater to (Finally) Reopen in March
Thursday-Sunday, Feb. 17-20
“Coppélia & the Toymaker” at UA-PTC CHARTS // Ballet Arkansas’ first show of the year is this classic tale of a magical doll and her creator over three acts full of family-friendly comedy and drama. Proof of vaccination or negative COVID test is required for guests 13 and older, and masks are required for all ages. Learn more here.
“Hamilton” Closing Weekend at the Robinson Center // This is your (last) shot, Little Rock. The smash hit show that took the world by storm has taken the downtown stage the past two weeks with its iconic reimagining of the early days of America. Masks required. Learn more here.
More performing arts news: Acansa Announces 2022 Festival Lineup