School may be back in session, but the season is still going strong. This weekend's lineup includes wine dinners, puppies and a whole lot of local biz celebrations. Let's get into it.
COVID forecast: Community level is medium. 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, Aug. 25
Wine Pairing Dinner at Rusty Tractor Vineyards // Where better to have a wine pairing than in a vineyard? Back for another installment of this tag-team series, Thursday's dinner will feature a five-course menu from Vibrant Occasions and sip selections from Vino Distribution. We have our sights on the baklava. Dinner is served at 6:30 p.m. Learn more here.
Potluck & Poison Ivy at The Joint // Argenta's storytelling project is back, featuring locals sharing their stories — Southern, savory and sometimes a little poisonous — in unparalleled style. In this session, guests will hear from musical artist Stephanie Smittle. It starts at 7 p.m. Learn more here.
"New West" Premiere at Ron Robinson Theater // Well, howdy, partner. As part of the Arkansas Cinema Society's Filmmaker Spotlight Series, this 45-minute feature film will debut in the city it was shot in. The film is billed as "an irreverent comedy with surprises" and "a story of friendship and forgiveness," and will be followed by a Q&A with the filmmakers. Showtime is 7:30 p.m. Learn more here.
More film news: AMFA Announces Move to Triennial Delta Exhibition, 2022 Featured Artists
Friday, Aug. 26
Argenta Vibe Music Series at Argenta Plaza // Why, yes, the vibes are immaculate in Argenta this weekend. The NLR neighborhood's (free!) outdoor concert series rocks on with live music from Elizabeth King, plus local food trucks, drinks and VIP tickets. The show starts at 7 p.m. Learn more here.
"The Thing" at Ron Robinson Theater // Things are getting downright frigid in the River Market. Throughout the month, the CALS theater has served up '80s sci-fi hits that may or may not have helped inspire a little show called "Stranger Things." Wrapping up the series is this Kurt Russell classic that might make you think twice about taking in strays. Showtime is 7 p.m. Learn more here.
Saturday, Aug. 27
Fourth Birthday Party at Full Out Bar // Hope you're ready for a whole lot of anniversary celebrations this weekend. Kicking things off (literally) is this WLR fitness studio, which is hosting a day of free classes, sales, drinks, snacks and permanent jewelry from Lux Links by Paige. It starts at 7 a.m. Learn more here.
Keep moving: Hurts Donut to Host '80s Glow Run at Burns Park
Bang-Up Bettyversary Celebration // Let's keep the party going. Somehow it's been a whole year since Bang-Up Betty went from local jewelry brand to brick-and-mortar gift shop in Argenta. To celebrate, shoppers can enjoy sweet treats, goody bags and giveaways, all while perusing the latest in BUB goods. Store hours are 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Learn more here.
FurEva Fifth Barkday Pawty at Bark Bar // This is just doggone fun. Bark Bar is marking five years of doggy happiness with a day of vendors, menu specials, photo opps and giveaways. Join in noon - 10 p.m. Learn more here. Bonus: If you need more pups in your life, come by Friday as well for their National Dog Day activities. More on that here.
Sunday, Aug. 28
City Garden: Beer & Ice Cream Social at Curran Hall // The Quapaw Quarter Association is bringing back this second annual event after a successful launch last summer. Stop by and celebrate the historic neighborhood with themed sips from Stone's Throw and ice cream from Loblolly, plus activities for the kiddos, food trucks and more from 5-7 p.m. Learn more here.
Friday & Saturday, Aug. 26 & 27
"Little Rock & A Hard Place" Closing Weekend at The Joint // Keep the confetti cannons close by. All summer long, The Joint Comedy Theater in Argenta has been celebrating 10 years of laughs with this updated anniversary show from comedy troupe The Main Thing. If you haven't had the opportunity to see it, here's your last chance. Showtime is 8 p.m. both nights. Learn more here.
More performance news: Jazz in the Park Announces Fall Lineup