Long Weekend Guide: 13 Events for Thanksgiving Goodness

Once you’ve emerged from the tryptophan haze, you’ve got some local exploring to do. 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. 24

Go!bbler Turkey Trot in The Heights & Hillcrest // It’s baaaack. Everyone’s favorite Thanksgiving run returns once again to help you balance out your inevitable overeating. Not only are there prizes and Santa visits at this free family walk/run, but it’s also a big food drive for the Arkansas Foodbank. Your entry fee is just a non-perishable food donation. Choose between 3, 4 or 6.5-mile courses, and let the kiddos run the Tiny Trot loop around the parking lot. Start time is 7:50 a.m. Learn more here. 

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Friendsgiving Potluck at Four Quarter Bar // Let the good vibes roll at this annual feast. Guests are invited to bring all their Thanksgiving leftovers and neighborly spirit, while the Four Quarter kitchen will be open to add to the potluck. And yes, the bar will be open, too. Doors open at 6 p.m. Learn more here.

 

Friday, Nov. 25

“The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” Opening Night at The Studio Theatre // If we know one thing, it’s to not cross Imogene Herdman. The downtown theater is kicking off its production of this play based on the hit book series by Barbara Robinson, complete with a family of misfit kiddos and the most chaotic nativity play to date. Showtime is 7:30 p.m. and it runs through Dec. 11. Learn more here. 

 

Saturday, Nov. 26

Small Business Saturday // This Saturday is Small Business Saturday, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to support your favorite local shops all across the city. Many are even sweetening the deal by offering specials like discounts, giveaways and even a few bites to keep you going. 

Not sure where to start? Try this:


Merry Market at St. Joseph Center of Arkansas // More merriment, please. Come shop this annual German-inspired outdoor event filled with makers and artists from around the state, plus food trucks, hayrides and hands-on activities. Admission is free, but donations are welcome. Be there 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Learn more here. 

Holiday Art Market at Boulevard Bread Co. // It’s a well known fact that shopping is much more enjoyable with a delicious beverage in your hand. Try it yourself and shop local artists and vendors while enjoying menu specials. It starts at 3:30 p.m. 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. Part two of this outdoor market features works from local makers like Sweet Elm Soapery, Rock Paper Candy and Forever Flowers. Shoppers will also enjoy plenty of music, food and drinks. Market hours are 5-9 p.m. Learn more here.

Heart & Soles Sneaker Ball at the DoubleTree Hotel // The worst part of galas? The blisters from the fancy shoes. This annual black-tie event takes the sting out of the night with an evening of live entertainment, art, a silent auction and sneakers all around. The best part? It all benefits Heart & Soles, a nonprofit that provides footwear for those in need. The party starts at 8 p.m. Learn more here.

 

Sunday, Nov. 27

Forever Thrifted Swap Meet at 815 Main St. // Secondhand, top tier. Local thrift pro La Rosa Antigua is continuing this monthly market (moving indoors for the season) with vintage clothing vendors, music, art, food trucks and more. Check it out 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Learn more here. 

 

Friday – Sunday, Nov. 25-27

Christmas is Coming Brunch at At the Corner // Whether you’re celebrating your retail conquests or just rolling out of bed, a stack of waffles will never judge. Load up on all the brunch goods at this annual River Market tradition. Learn more here.

“Fiddler on the Roof” at the Robinson Center // Now we have everything. Rescheduled from the 2021-2022 season, Tevye and the gang are finally taking the stage in one of Broadway’s greatest hits. Catch the show at 7:30 p.m. Friday,  2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday or 1 p.m. Sunday. Learn more here.

This season’s lineup: “Legally Blonde,” “Aladdin,” “My Fair Lady” and More Coming to Robinson Center

 

Saturday & Sunday, Nov. 26 & 27

Concerts at Simmons Bank Arena // The NLR venue always has a great lineup, and this weekend is no exception. Catch Five Finger Death Punch and Brantley Gilbert on Saturday and The Eagles’ “Hotel California” tour on Sunday. Learn more here.

Music on the Patio at River Bottom Winery // Need a little more fresh air? Located at BoBrook Farms, this winery’s patio is the perfect place to enjoy local sips with live music from Fonkey Donkey on Saturday and the Steve Crump Band on Sunday. The music starts at 3 p.m. both days. Learn more here.

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