Festivals, barbecue, baseball — sounds like summertime is in full swing. Let's get into it.

 

COVID forecast: Click here to get this week's by-the-numbers report, and click here for a simplified version of what it means for how to go out into the city safely and responsibly. 

 

Thursday, June 16

Serving Up Solutions at the Albert Pike Masonic Center // The Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance is cooking up another year of its signature fundraiser — its 15th annual and first in person since 2019 — with its most delicious menu yet. The event is designed to encourage bipartisan awareness of hunger in Arkansas while joining forces to help end it. The night's proceeds help grow the state's food banks and pantries, while guests enjoy fine dining prepared by local chefs and served by members of the Arkansas Legislative Hunger Caucus. The good eats start at 6 p.m. Learn more here.

Read on: The future is full for AHRA board prez Jennifer Martinez Belt

 

Friday, June 17

Third Friday Art Walk in Argenta // It's time to go on a walk, everybody. Lace up your comfy shoes because this monthly fun walk invites you to stroll through the Argenta Arts District’s lineup of special exhibits and events. Highlights include a flashback to 90s summer camp at The Hub, an O'Faolain pop-up at Bang-Up Betty and a Peggy Wenger highlight at the NLR Heritage Center. The Art Walk starts at 5 p.m. Learn more here.

While you're in the neighborhood: A Guide to Downtown & Argenta

Ride with Pride at ZenStudio // Your workout is getting the rainbow treatment. This fitness studio is bringing back its popular Pride-themed studio cycle class on Friday, this time with proceeds benefiting Central Arkansas Pride. It starts at 6 p.m. Learn more here.

"Gypsy" Opening Night at The Studio Theatre // If you didn't get enough Sondheim at the Tonys, this should do the trick. The downtown theater is bringing this classic musical to the stage following a touring mother and daughter vaudeville act and featuring hits like "Everything's Coming Up Roses" and "Together Wherever We Go." Showtime is 7:30 p.m. Learn more here.

 

Saturday, June 18

Juneteenth in da Rock at the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center // Now an official federal holiday, Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in the U.S. with a focus on education, freedom and forward thinking. The MTCC is pulling out all the stops this year with a day full of events including a 5K highlighting Black historical sites, a concert by R&B singer/songwriter Leela James and a full-on block party with food trucks, vendor booths, entertainment and plenty of family-friendly activities. The 5K kicks things off at 8 a.m. and festivities last all day. Learn more here.

The MTCC isn't the only one marking the holiday. Here are some other local events:

Omahogs Watch Party at Brewski's // Woo pig, y'all. Arkansas is killing it in the College World Series and this downtown pub is ready to throw down. Come watch the Hogs take on Stanford with drink specials on the menu and TVs everywhere you look. Doors open at 11 a.m. Learn more here. 

Safe Haus Pride Festival at The Bernice Garden // To celebrate Pride Month, local queer-owned production group Safe Haus is hosting this first-ever event dedicated to diversity, love and all things local. Expect food trucks, vendors, games, entertainment and a drag show for newcomers. It all starts at noon. Learn more here.

 

Sunday, June 19

Father's Day Bash at Rusty Tractor Vineyards // Great eats and music await Pops at this event in the Sunset Lodge. Along with all the cocktail, beer and wine options, Lili's Mexican Street Food, The Prickly Pickle and Grilled Sandwich Company food trucks will be on site serving the goods, while Bad Habit plays the classics. The fun lasts noon - 6 p.m. Learn more here.

BBQ & Beer Father's Day Fest at River Bottom Winery // Sometimes the recipe for a good Father's Day is simple. Give him what he wants in the form of barbecue from Corky's, beer specials and live music from Trey Johnson. It starts at noon. Learn more here.

Psst! Here's a few last-minute Father’s Day gifts ideas.

 

And don't forget farmers markets around the metro:

Not sure what else is open? Check out our farmers market guide.