A new season is here, and you can see it in this weekend's lineup. Let's get into it.
Thursday, Sept. 21
Zoo Brew and Cocktails, Too! at the Little Rock Zoo // Bottoms up, party animals. It’s that time of year when you get your craft beer on while hanging out with lions and tigers and bears. This annual event features live music, food trucks, games and tons of brews to sample, plus this year's new addition of a cocktail menu. Proceeds from the event go to the Arkansas Zoological Foundation. The night kicks off at 6 p.m. Learn more here.
River City Men's Chorus Fall Concert at St. James United Methodist Church // We like the sound of this. The chorus will kick off its 20th anniversary season with "Heal the Word," a concert featuring pieces designed to "fill your souls and inspire you to reach out to your brothers and sisters everywhere." The free show starts at 7 p.m. Learn more here.
Friday, Sept. 22
GeoffFest at The Rail Yard // If you missed the announcement earlier this summer, the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra named Geoffrey Robson its new music director. And with the ASO season opener next weekend, they're kicking things off and celebrating their new leader (and his birthday) with this free community event. Expect food trucks, lots of live music and opportunities to connect with different community efforts. Be there 5-8 p.m. Learn more here.
Miss the memo? Catch up on the big ASO news here.
QQA Summer Supper at the Pyramid Building Penthouse // History with a view? Yes, please. This summer, the Quapaw Quarter Association has been hosting a series of historic tours through various neighborhoods, each including some delicious local dining. The series finale kicks off at 6 p.m. Learn more here.
Gala for Life at the Statehouse Convention Center // Is that a tropical breeze we feel? The UAMS Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute's signature event returns for a night of cocktails, dinner and dancing the night away, all with this year's theme of "Sunset Under the Palms: A Key West Soirée." It begins at 6:30 p.m. Learn more here.
"Matilda the Musical" Opening Night at Wildwood Park for the Arts // Save us a slice of chocolate cake, would you? This hit musical adaptation is based on the 1988 children's novel of the same name by Roald Dahl and includes all the fun, magic and Trunchbull you know, love and hate. Showtime is 7:30 p.m. Learn more here.
Argenta Vibe Music Series at Argenta Plaza // We can already tell the vibes are going to be perfect in Argenta this weekend. The NLR neighborhood's (free!) outdoor concert series continues its 2023 season with live music from The Pine Leaf Boys, plus local eats, drinks and even some VIP tickets. The show starts at 8 p.m. Learn more here.
While you've got your dancing shoes on: Fall Runs to Keep On Your Radar
Thursday & Friday, Sept. 21 & 22
10th Birthday Celebration at Belle & Blush // Beauty aficionados, it's time to celebrate one of the greats. Discounts, treats, drinks and more await at both The Promenade and Heights locations of the local beauty boutique in honor of the 10-year anniversary of its launch. Learn more here.
Saturday, Sept. 23
Big Dam Bridge 100 throughout the metro // Helmets, funny shoes and a whole lot of Lycra — that’s what awaits the cyclists who make their way to the city for this annual ride. Cyclists can take on 15-, 26-, 50-, 75- and 105-mile courses, covering both Little Rock and North Little Rock, winding down the River Trail, crossing the Big Dam Bridge (of course) and through the metro. Not riding, but still want to party with the pedalers? Hang out at the finish line for food trucks, drinks and fun. Start times vary, but it all kicks off bright and early in NLR Riverfront Park. Learn more here.
Thea Paves the Way at the Clinton Presidential Center // The Clinton Center front lawn is about to get a whole lot more colorful. The sidewalk chalk event is back for the first time since 2019, bringing dozens of school, family, church and community groups together to engage in a collaborative art project. Grab some chalk and join the fun from 8 a.m. - noon. Learn more here.
Grand Opening at Certified Pies // We can smell the pepperoni now. It's been a long time coming, and now the local pizzeria is opening the doors to its new brick-and-mortar at 9807 W. Markham St. Come celebrate and grab a slice or four (and don't skip the wings). Shop hours are 10:30 a.m. - 9p.m. Learn more here.
More Foodie News: Local Updates You May Have Missed This Summer
Main Street Trading Post at 406 Main St. // We don't know about you, but we can't get enough of all the pop-up markets in Little Rock these days. This open-air event is back, this time in the parking lot at Main and Capitol. The downtown space will be home to local vendor booths, food, entertainment and more, including lots of vintage goods. Check it out 2-8 p.m.. Learn more here.
Little Rocktoberfest at War Memorial Stadium // Game faces on, everyone. Hosted by the Central Arkansas Fermenters, this is the state’s premier brew and craft beer festival. Stop in for great food, even more great beer, music and other activities. Plus, a portion of the proceeds will go to the Miracle League of Arkansas and Dunbar Garden. The fun lasts 6-9 p.m. Learn more here.
It's officially festival season, y'all: The 2023 Guide to Your Favorite Fall Festivals
The Finest Gala at Argenta Plaza // It's the best of both worlds. The Arkansas chapter of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation combined its two most popular events — Breath of Life and Taste of the Finest — into one amazing night. Here guests will enjoy a seated dinner, signature sips, live entertainment and more. The al fresco evening begins at 6 p.m. Learn more here.
"Rocky Horror Picture Show" at CALS Ron Robinson Theater // The first day of fall calls for a time warp. This interactive screening of the cult classic comes complete with costume contests, games and trivia, just leave the hot dogs at home. Outside props are not allowed, but you can purchase your own at the door. IYKYK. Showtime is 9 p.m. Learn more here.
Speaking of CALS: What to Expect at the 20th Annual Six Bridges Book Festival
Thursday - Saturday, Sept. 21-23
Acansa Arts Festival at various locations // Spanning the course of three weekends, this fest returns to its traditional fall spot with a schedule packed with all sorts of performances on both sides of the river. The final weekend's lineup includes performances from Ballets with a Twist and of "Doubt: A Parable," as well as live music from Finger Food. Learn more here.
Sunday, Sept. 24
Peace Week Work Day at the 7th Street Mural Project // Time to roll up those sleeves. As Arkansas Peace Week wraps up, community members are encouraged to flex their painting skills and help do some maintenance on the murals to fix them up and make them shine. Come enjoy the neighborly vibes 8 a.m. - noon. Learn more here.
Work up an appetite? Eat Up at Big Orange for Hunger Action Month
