Food trucks, outdoor movies, open air markets — we're inching closer to summertime and this weekend's lineup is proof. Let's get into it.
COVID forecast: Community level is low. Click here to get the latest from the Arkansas Department of Health, and click here for a simplified version of what it means for how to go out into the city safely and responsibly.
Thursday, May 18
Night Market at The Bernice Garden // What spring nights are made of. This neighborhood market will have lots of local vendors and a food truck on hand to fuel your fun. Peruse and enjoy starting at 5 p.m. Learn more here.
Tacos & Tequila at Argenta Plaza // What's in a name? Exactly what's in the name of this tasty event. Local restaurants are offering up some of the best tacos in town for guests to enjoy, along with lots of margaritas to wash it all down. Be there 6-9 p.m. Learn more here.
More neighborhood news: Downtown & Argenta
Friday, May 19
Third Friday Art Walk in Argenta // Let's go on a walk, everybody. Lace up your comfy shoes because this monthly walk invites you to stroll through the Argenta Arts District’s lineup of special exhibits and events. Highlights include a Short Weaver Studio showcase at the NLR Welcome Center, a Tanya Hollifield exhibit opening at Laman Library and Studio Dust Co. and Marble Farms pop-ups at Bang-Up Betty. The Art Walk starts at 5 p.m. Learn more here.
Taylor Fest at The Hall // Are you ready for it? This traveling show has been roaming the country, throwing dance parties tailor-made for Swifties (and the Swiftie-adjacent) with all the hits, and now it's back. Doors open at 8 p.m. Learn more here.
Saturday, May 20
Movies in the Park at the Market at Chenal // It's a horse of a different color for 21 Rahling Circle. Continuing its partnership with the Arkansas Cinema Society, this WLR market is hosting a free outdoor screening of some of ACS's short films as well as "The Wizard of Oz" at 10 a.m. and "Tangled" at 1 p.m. Of course, there will be plenty of fresh produce, food trucks, yoga, art vendors, activities for the kids and more. The day's fun starts at 9 a.m. Learn more here.
Yoga on the Farm at the St. Joseph Center of Arkansas // Nothing like a little zen on the farm to get your Saturday going. Get your flow on with an all-levels, restorative session led by Kelly Grappe of Forevermost Farms. BYO mat and sunscreen. Class starts at 10 a.m. Learn more here.
Keep it fresh: Your Guide to Farmers Markets in the Metro
Cupcakes for Goodness Sake at Argenta Plaza // Step right up, sweets lovers. Returning to its Argenta festival roots, this annual event invites attendees to stroll the plaza while enjoying a summer-themed cupcake competition, local vendors, food trucks and signature drinks, all while helping to raise funds for CareLink. Be there 3-6 p.m. Learn more here.
ALS in Wonderland: Olympus at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church // Gods and mere mortals alike are excited for the return of this event for the first time since 2019. According to organizers, "art imitates life in this mythical and fashionable production" with food, drinks, raffles, auctions, live entertainment and more. The evening begins at 7 p.m. Learn more here.
Brooks & Dunn at Simmons Bank Arena // Play something country, NLR. The iconic country duo is bringing its extended "Reboot" tour to the arena, along with special guest Platinum-selling artist Scotty McCreery. Showtime is 7 p.m. Learn more here.
Thursday - Saturday, May 18-20
Birthday Celebration at Petit & Keet // We're getting hungry already. This WLR restaurant is marking six years in the biz with new menu items, champagne toasts and the return of Chef Steve Binotti. Operating hours are 4-10 p.m. Thursday and 4-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Learn more here.
Friday & Saturday, May 19 & 20
Cult Classic Movies at Ron Robinson Theater // The popcorn is flowing once again at the downtown theater, and the lineups keep catching our eye. Up first is "Tremors" on Friday at 7 p.m., then an interactive screening of "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" on Saturday at 9 p.m. Learn more here.
Speaking of giant prehistoric monsters: Clinton Center to Display "Dinosaur Explorer" Exhibit in June
Sunday, May 21
Sunday Funday at Rusty Tractor Vineyards // Sunday scaries? We don't know her. Patio hangs and food trucks (hi, Boards & Bubbles and Grilled Sandwich Co.) await at the vineyard's Sunset Lodge, plus beer, wine, cocktails and live music by Ben Byers. Stop by noon - 4 p.m. Learn more here.
A sommelier weighs in: Jeff Yant is Wine Wise
Thursday - Sunday, May 18-21
Pulaski County Fair at North Shore Riverwalk Park // Dibs on the funnel cake. This third annual event is taking to the NLR riverbank, inviting guests to enjoy rides, games, vendors, themed music nights and, yes, insane food. A portion of the proceeds will go to NLR Parks & Recreation. Fair hours are 5-10 p.m. Thursday and noon - 11 p.m. Friday - Sunday. Learn more here.
Friday - Sunday, May 19-21
"My Fair Lady" at the Robinson Center // Well, isn't this loverly? The classic musical comes to the downtown stage with Eliza Doolittle, Henry Higgins and all your favorite characters on their own heartfelt, hilarious transformation journeys. Catch the show Friday at 7:30 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m. or Sunday at 1 p.m. Learn more here.
More stage news: "Six," "Mean Girls," "Pretty Woman" and More Coming to Robinson Center
Saturday & Sunday, May 20 & 21
Sweet Summertime Market at BoBrook Farms // Ok, so it's not technically summer yet, but it's hot enough to count. Break out your warm weather garb and enjoy this two-day, open air market with more than 50 local vendors, lawn games, food trucks and River Bottom Winery sips. It runs from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Saturday and noon - 4 p.m. Sunday. Learn more here.
