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The 5 Types of Rivers You’ll Float in Arkansas

By
Jess Ardrey
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It’s hot out there, folks — we’re talking heat-advisory-nearly-every-day hot. And for many locals, that means a trip to the nearest river is in order. But before you dip your toe into the cool, refreshing Arkie-water, you first have to decide what kind of float trip you want to experience.

Whatever you’re looking for, we’ve sorted out the best float trips in Arkansas.

 

If you’re looking for an oldie, but a goodie, try the Buffalo River.

It’s no wonder this river is one of, if not the most floated waterways in the state. Rentals and tour guides abound so you don’t have to worry about going into “Castaway” mode. The Buffalo provides smooth sailing, gorgeous scenery and a little wildlife to keep things interesting. Click here for info.

 

If you’re looking for a good time, try the Spring River.

Sometimes you just want to cut a little loose, and we get it. The Spring River is no stranger to the good-time-lovin’ crowds, but don’t judge a book by its cover. The 58-degree temperature is a godsend in an Arkansas summer, and the crystal clear water isn’t bad, either. Click here for info.

 

If you’re looking for a no-nonsense float, try the Ouachita River.

Granted, most people don’t actually own canoes or kayaks, and sometimes renting them can get a little steep. That’s when you head to the Ouachita. Stick to the area between Remmel Dam at Lake Catherine and the whitewater park in Rockport near Malvern and all you’ll need is an inner tube. Click here for info.

 

If you’re looking for thrills, try the Mulberry River.

Hold on to your paddles, folks. Things are about to get a little dicey. Sure, Turner Bend offers some great swimming holes in the drier months, but the rest of the Mulberry boasts some pretty awesome whitewater rafting for the adrenaline junkies out there. Click here for info.

 

If you’re looking for something close to home, try the Saline River.

For only about a half-hour drive from downtown Little Rock you could be floating along through forests and farmlands. Want to stop for a swim? Take a fishing break? Go right ahead. Just another perk of living in The Natural State. Click here for info.

Bonus: If you really don’t want to travel, you can always hit the water right here in the city with downtown views from the Arkansas River like you’ve never seen before.

‘9 to 5: The Musical’ Comes to Argenta Contemporary Theatre This Month

By
Josie Burnett
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Grab a cup of coffee and cue the Dolly Parton soundtrack. “9 to 5: The Musical” is coming to Argenta Contemporary Theatre July 23 through Aug. 3.

Based on the hit 1980 film, this high-energy, feel-good production features original music and lyrics by the iconic country music artist Dolly Parton. The story, originally written by Patricia Resnick, follows three working women who have had enough of their overbearing, misogynistic boss and decide to take matters into their own hands.

With dazzling choreography and powerhouse vocals, this production tells a message that still resonates more than 40 years after the movie premiered. Viewers can expect a lot of laughs, catchy tunes and a fresh reminder to always stand up for what’s right.

Performances will be held at Argenta Contemporary Theatre, located at 405 Main St. in North Little Rock. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the show begins at 7:30 p.m. Matinee performances open at 1 p.m. and begin at 2 p.m.

For more information and to purchase tickets (which are going fast), visit ACT’s website and follow along on Instagram and Facebook.

Sip This: Mocktail MO’s Ranch Water Recipe

By
Little Rock Soirée Staff
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The heat is on in Arkansas, and so is the search for the perfect summer sip. And while a frozen cocktail can certainly cool you down, sometimes a boozy beverage just isn’t in the cards.

For a drink that’s equal parts tasty and refreshing — not to mention sippable by everyone — reach for this alcohol-free ranch water recipe from Little Rock’s own Mocktail MO.

Ranch Water Mocktail

Ingredients:

  • 2.5 oz. Ritual Tequila Alternative (0.0% ABV)
  • 1 oz. Mixly Grapefruit Jalapeño Mixer
  • juice of 1/2 a lime
  • Topo Chico sparkling water (MO recommends grapefruit)

Directions:

Begin by rimming a rocks glass with salt and chile lime spice. Fill with ice and add the tequila alternative, squeezed lime juice and mixer. Top with Topo Chico, then finish with a stir and enjoy.

Click here for more of MO’s summertime recipes.

Credit: Jason Masters

Alabama is Coming to Simmons Bank Arena

By
Little Rock Soirée Staff
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Sweet potato pie and, well, you know the rest.

Alabama just announced they’re bringing their latest tour to Simmons Bank Arena on Saturday, Nov. 15.

Last hitting the NLR stage in 2022, the iconic country band started with a trio of cousins 50 years ago and now has a slew of accolades, including Grammy, CMA and ACM awards, as well as spots in the Country Music Hall of Fame, Musicians Hall of Fame and Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame.

Special guests The Marshall Tucker Band will open the show.

Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. this Friday, July 18.

Get yours online at ticketmaster.com or at the arena box office.

Ronald McDonald House Golf Scramble Returns This August

By
Josie Burnett
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Ronald McDonald House Charities of Arkansas & North Louisiana will host its 33rd annual Golf Scramble on Monday, Aug. 25, at the Pleasant Valley Country Club.

Supporters and players will enjoy a summer day on the renovated course, but most importantly, all of the funds they raise will go toward keeping families comfortable, safe and close to their children being treated at local hospitals.

The scramble calls for teams of four and includes casino-themed games along the course as well as a party stop stocked with everything you need, including a bourbon pull. Plus, when you play in the golf scramble, your tickets to the nonprofit’s A Night in Vegas on Sept. 19 at The Hall are included.

Flight times are at 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. with breakfast served in the morning and lunch at noon. 

To register, head to the RMHCA-NLA website. Visit the nonprofit’s Instagram and Facebook pages for more information.

Ira Mittelman to Open New Restaurant on Third Street

By
Jess Ardrey
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A local restaurant vet is getting back in the game.

Fork, the latest venture from Ira Mittelman, is coming to 1900 W. Third St. with a “blend [of] Southern, New American, Italian and New World cuisine to create dishes that are unique and bold, yet approachable.”

The menu will include fresh, fast lunch dishes and fine dining dinner options “driven by seasonal harvests” and featuring produce from Dunbar Garden and other Arkansas items.

“Add that to our carefully curated wine list, craft cocktails and local brews, and we hope Fork will become the new spot for Little Rock dining,” says Mittelman, who was behind past local favorites Ira’s Park Hill Grill and Ira’s Restaurant.

Set just across the street from the Arkansas State Capitol, the space offers a deck with unique views of the downtown skyline and was most recently home to Mar y Tierra Cantina and Grill.

Developers hope the restaurant will serve as an anchor for new construction in the Rose Creek Station neighborhood.

Fork is set to open Aug. 18.

Credit: Madeline Circle

July Party Pics Now Online

By
Little Rock Soirée Staff
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The July issue of Little Rock Soirée is on newsstands, and you know what that means: There’s a fresh batch of event photos to peruse. As always, each edition’s Party Pics are posted right here on littlerocksoiree.com, and the latest photos from the new issue are now online.

Here are this month’s featured events:

Now, go ahead and share the links on socials, text your friends and spread the good times around.

Little Rock Weekend Guide: July 10-13 

By
Jess Ardrey
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From line dancing to Shakespeare, there’s a little something for everyone on the agenda this weekend. Let’s get into it.

 

Thursday, July 10

Actors Theatre of Little Rock Birthday Cabaret at Camp Taco // This local troupe is getting a solid dose of the House of Mouse for its third birthday. For this special Disney edition of its Little Rock Sings Cabaret Series, come in costume and sing your heart out with Mickey and the gang at 6:30 p.m. Learn more here.

Curtain up: The Weekend Theater Announces 2025-2026 Season

 

Friday, July 11

2nd Friday Art Night in Downtown Little Rock // It’s 2FAN time, aka the monthly lineup of downtown businesses opening their doors for after-hours artistic fun. Highlights this month include the annual Hop-Off brewing competition at the Historic Arkansas Museum, live music at the Old State House Museum and an artist pop-up at Bella Vita. 2FAN runs 5-8 p.m. Learn more here.

Discover Trust Tree at the Arkansas Regional Innovation Hub // After a summer of rocking out, this nonprofit music and art camp is celebrating in rad style. Come support and learn more about Trust Tree while enjoying performances from young campers, eats, drinks, family-friendly activities and more. It starts at 7 p.m. Learn more here.

 

Saturday, July 12

Little Rock Fit Fest at MacArthur Park // This is how you get moving on a Saturday morning. Everyone’s welcome to join the first-ever, free community event for a day of trainer-led workouts, vendors, wellness screenings, food trucks and hydration stations. BYO water bottle, yoga mat and towel. Break a sweat from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Learn more here.

Live Aid Watch Party at Southern Tail Brewing // Forty years ago, the music world stood still as a roster of legends took the stage at Wembley Stadium to raise millions for famine relief. Now the brewery is hosting a showing of the original concert, and this time proceeds benefit the Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance. Restaurant hours are 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. Learn more here.

More celebrity sightings: See Who Won the 2025 Soirée Cutest Dog Contest

Busy Buying Black at the Maumelle Event Center // Another local shopping showcase? Don’t mind if we do. Hosted by the Blacker the Berry Market, this event features more than 50 Black-owned businesses, plus food trucks, cocktails, music and a photo booth. Shop 1-6 p.m. Learn more here.

Saturday Shop Vintage Market at The Bernice Garden // In SoMa, the vintage vibes are back at Bernice in the July edition of this recurring neighborhood event. Expect vendors with throwback fashions, decor and art, and at a later time to beat the heat. Come shop 4-9 p.m. Learn more here.

Boots ‘n The Rock at the Main Street Pocket Park // If you’ve been itching to get in on a little summer line dancing, here’s your chance to scoot your boots with music and food to keep you going. Giddy up from 5-9 p.m. Learn more here.  

 

Thursday – Saturday, July 10-12

CALS Used Book Sale at 7773 Sloane Drive // Time to add a few titles to that summer reading list. With the Main Library undergoing renovations, the CALS temporary offices in the Port Industrial Hub are full of gently read books, and they’re calling your name with a price tag of just $1 each. (This is the last sale of the year and the last before Main reopens.) Sale hours are 2-5 p.m. Thursday and 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Bring a backpack. Or maybe a U-Haul. Learn more here. 

Required reading: Step Inside the July Issue of Soirée

Classic Movies at Ron Robinson Theater // Meanwhile, the popcorn is flowing once again at the CALS theater in the River Market. Up first is “Dirty Dancing” on Thursday, then “The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou” on Friday, both at 7 p.m. On Saturday is “Mary Poppins (1964)” at 12:30 p.m., the next Exhibition on Screen installment “Sunflowers” at 4 p.m., followed by an interactive screening of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” at 8 p.m. Learn more here.

 

Sunday, July 13

Distill & Chill at Rock Town Distillery // The summer blockbuster vibes are alive and well in SoMa. Rock Town’s throwback movie series welcomes you to the barrel house for a free screening and popcorn, plus drink specials. July’s lineup is all about sharks, and this week it’s “Shark Tale.” BYO chairs and blankets. Showtime is 5:30 p.m. Learn more here.

 

Thursday – Sunday, July 10-13

“The Tempest” at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts // It’s always good to see the bard. This touring production by Shake on the Lake brings one of history’s most memorable works to life in the AMFA’s glass box theater. Catch the show at 7:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday or 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Learn more here.

“Hair” Opening Weekend at the Arkansas Repertory Theatre // Next up in its SummerStage season, The Rep is letting the sun shine in with this hit musical set in 1960s New York. Love, war, counterculture — it’s all covered in this beloved Broadway show and iconic soundtrack. Learn more here.

Arkansas Travelers vs. Tulsa Drillers at Dickey-Stephens Park // Play ball, y’all. The Travs take on the Oklahoma team in this week-long series, which also features different specials each night like fireworks, wrestling matches and the return of the Diamantes de Arkansas. Learn more here.

Need to cool off? 8 Local Frozen Treats to Help You Weather a Southern Summer

What to Buy at Farmers Markets in July

By
Little Rock Soirée Staff
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0

Summer is here and she is unstoppable. In our quest to enjoy this month to the fullest, we’re taking advantage of our neighborhood farmers markets. It’s a beautiful sight to see, but, as any veteran shopper will tell you, the best trips happen with a bit of planning. To get the freshest produce this month, fill your bags with these in-season items.

July’s In-Season Produce:

  • blackberries
  • black-eyed peas
  • blueberries
  • butter beans
  • cantaloupe
  • cucumbers
  • eggplant
  • green beans
  • nectarines
  • okra
  • onions
  • peaches
  • peppers
  • plums
  • potatoes
  • raspberries
  • strawberries
  • summer squash
  • sweet corn
  • tomatoes
  • watermelon

Plus, the Pulaski County Government recently opened the new Two Rivers Garden Center Farmers Market fueled by community gardeners. For details on this and all the metro’s markets, click here.

The Weekend Theater Announces 2025-2026 Season

By
Josie Burnett
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0

The spotlight is turning once again downtown as The Weekend Theater unveils its 33rd season, packed with bold stories and what are sure to be unforgettable performances.

Guided by its motto, “Laugh. Cry. Think. Act.,” the intimate community theater has sparked meaningful dialogue since 1991. The upcoming season stays true to that mission, offering a dynamic mix that spans different genres for all ages.

Without further ado, here’s The Weekend Theater’s 2025-2026 season lineup:

 

“Lord of the Flies”

July 25 – Aug. 10

A plane carrying a group of school children is shot down in the midst of evacuating for war, marooning the children on a tropical island. Without adult supervision, they initially attempt to create a civilized society, but their attempts crumble as they descend into chaos, giving in to their darkest instincts.

 

“Playing with Fire: After Frankenstein”

Oct. 3-19

An exhausted and dying Victor Frankenstein has finally tracked down his Creature in the lonely, frozen tundra of the North Pole. Determined to right the wrong he has committed by, at last, destroying the malignant evil he believes he has created, Frankenstein finds that he must first deal with his own responsibility and guilt.

 

“The Thanksgiving Play”

Nov. 21 – Dec. 7

Good intentions collide with absurd assumptions in Larissa FastHorse’s wickedly funny satire, as a troupe of terminally woke teaching artists scrambles to create a pageant that somehow manages to celebrate both Turkey Day and Native American Heritage Month.

 

“[title of show]”

Jan. 17 – Feb. 1

Jeff and Hunter, two struggling writers, hear about a new musical theater festival. However, the deadline for submissions is a mere three weeks away. With nothing to lose, the pair decides to try to create something new with the help of their friends Susan, Heidi and Larry on the eighty-eights. With the cast in place, Jeff and Hunter begin a conversation about what to write about. Eventually, Jeff suggests they write about what to write about.

 

“Nuts”

March 6-22

Set in a courtroom in New York’s Bellevue Hospital, the story follows a high-priced call girl incarcerated on a charge for killing a violent “john.” The State, represented by a court-appointed psychiatrist and an aggressive prosecutor, says Claudia Faith Draper is unfit to stand trial. As testimony from experts, physicians and her parents unfolds, with her psyche and childhood dissected, she must prove to the judge that she isn’t “nuts” to stand trial.

 

“A Gentleman’s Guide to Love & Murder”

April 17 – May 3

When the low-born Monty Navarro finds out that he’s eighth in line for an earldom in the lofty D’Ysquith family, he figures his chances of outliving his predecessors are slight and sets off down a far more ghoulish path. Can he knock off his unsuspecting relatives without being caught and become the ninth Earl of Highhurst? And what of love? Because murder isn’t the only thing on Monty’s mind.

 

“The Taming of the Shrew”

June 5-21

Lucentio loves Bianca, but cannot court her until her shrewish older sister Katherina has married. So Lucentio recruits the eccentric Petruccio to marry the reluctant Katherina and turn her into a good wife. Thus begins a battle of wits and wills the likes of which none have seen before.

(Show descriptions provided by The Weekend Theater.)

 

Ticket sales and audition info have yet to be announced, but are coming soon. Season flex passes are available for purchase now. Learn more about The Weekend Theater on its website, and follow along on Facebook and Instagram for the latest.

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