A few ghosts may still be hanging around, but the new month is already full of holiday fun. Let's get into it.
COVID forecast: Community level is low. 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, Nov. 3
First Thursday Shop & Sip in Hillcrest // It’s the first Thursday of the month, and you know what that means — time to get your Hillcrest shop 'n' sip on. Soak up the Kavanaugh vibes while you take advantage of the specials, later hours and extra fun, like drinks, music and aura photos at Hocott's and a concert with The Rocktown Sparks in the Hillcrest Liquor parking lot. The fun runs 5-8 p.m. Learn more here.
Shop on: Soirée Holiday Gift Guide: Part I
GloWILD! Opening Night at the Little Rock Zoo // Shine bright like a lion. The immersive "larger than life light show" that won over visitors last year is once again taking over the zoo for the next two months. More than 50,000 lights will be on display with handcrafted, silk-covered, animal-shaped lanterns around every corner, plus special events throughout the exhibit's stay. The light fest opens at 5 p.m. and runs through Jan. 7. Learn more here.
Patio on Park Hill at Lakehill Shopping Center // Let's party, Park Hill. After a long hiatus, this neighborhood festival returns this weekend complete with local vendors, food trucks, live music and more. All proceeds go right back into helping grow the Park Hill community, which just so happens to be marking its 100th anniversary. The fun lasts from 5-9 p.m. Learn more here.
Pig & Swig at Argenta Plaza // Have mercy. This "premium whiskey and pork tasting event" hosted by the Arkansas Times invites some of your favorite local chefs and restaurants to offer up their best pork dishes. All you have to do is partake as you sip top-notch whiskeys and enjoy live music. The eats last from 6-9 p.m. Learn more here.
Friday, Nov. 4
SoMa After Dark on South Main Street // ICYMI, this monthly neighborhood bash has made its return, and area businesses are once again offering later hours and special activities. Highlights this month include a Favorite Clones pop-up at South Main Creative, tasty sips at Pink Olive and Sweet Stuffed cheesecakes at The Green Corner Store. It begins at 5 p.m. Learn more here.
Saturday, Nov. 5
Walk to End Alzheimer's in North Little Rock // Lace up those sneakers. The Alzheimer's Association's annual walk is back in person this year, kicking off the 2-mile route at Argenta Plaza. Proceeds aid the nonprofit in its battle against Alzheimer's and dementia. Check-in begins at 9 a.m. and the opening ceremony starts at 10 a.m. A virtual option is also available. Learn more here.
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The Bernice Bazaar at The Bernice Garden // Holidays full of local goodness are the only ones we care to have. The November edition of this monthly outdoor market features works from local makers like White Moth Studios, Daisy Pastry Shoppe and Kaliko Soul Soaps & Lotions. Shoppers will also enjoy plenty of music, food and drinks. Market hours are 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Learn more here.
Dia de los Muertos Festival at Plaza Frida // Break out the cempasúchiles. The outdoor fun and festivities for Day of the Dead continue at this 4001 W. 65th St. venue. Expect lots of food, music, Catrinas and ofrendas. Be there 3-8 p.m. Learn more here.
Oxford American 30th Anniversary Celebration at UA-PTC CHARTS // HBD, OA. The "magazine of the South" is marking the occasion with a concert by folk duo Shovels & Rope, Blues guitarist Buffalo Nichols and songwriter Tré Burt. Doors open at 6 p.m. Learn more here.
Ghost Hunting 101 at the Old State House Museum // If you're still in spooky season mode, this is for you. Join local paranormal investigators Rhonda Burton and Linda Howell to learn a thing or two about investigation techniques while supporting the Arkansas State House Society. It starts at 7 p.m. Learn more here.
Want to get more involved? A Guide to Nonprofit Young Professionals Groups in Little Rock
Thursday-Saturday, Nov. 3-5
CARTI's Festival Trees at the Statehouse Convention Center // Pass that cup of cheer this way. The three-day festival benefitting CARTI returns for its 46th year, kicking off with the sold-out Sugar Plum Ball on Thursday. On Friday, the Festival of Fashion brings the spectacle of a New York runway show to downtown Little Rock with looks from local boutiques and the theme "Surviving the Storm." On Saturday comes Tux 'n' Trees, CARTI's signature black tie event with fine dining, dancing and live entertainment, as well as live and silent auctions. Events begin at 6 p.m. each night. Learn more here.
Plus: The Opus Ball may be sold out, too, but you can still give to support the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra's youth programs. More on that here.
Sunday, Nov. 6
JDRF One Walk at the Little Rock Zoo // Keep those sneakers handy this weekend. One Walk is JDRF's fundraising 5K that's all about increasing awareness of Type 1 diabetes and furthering the work to end it. Start time is 1 p.m. Learn more here.
Hillcrest Pumpkin Roll // We're a few days into November, meaning your jack-o'-lantern's probably a little ripe. And since clearly the best way to dispose of it is to propel it down a steep slope, that’s exactly what’s going to happen on Sunday at Hill Road and Midland Street, just like it’s happened for the past 18 years. It's $10 to launch your gourd, and proceeds benefit the Arkansas Foodbank. Plus, there are prizes for kids and adults. The pumpkins fly at 2 p.m. Learn more here.
Wondering where the year went? 4 Ways to Slow Down & Enjoy the Holidays
Thursday - Sunday, Nov. 3-6
Filmland at Ron Robinson Theater // Popcorn on deck. Now in its fifth year, the Arkansas Cinema Society's film festival features screenings, workshops, after parties across the city and Q&A sessions with local and Hollywood filmmakers alike. Keep an eye out for David Arquette, Gia Crovatin and other names joining the fun. Learn more here.
