We got a taste of spring and we’re running with it. Let’s get into it.
Editor’s note: As COVID-19 continues to take a toll on Little Rock, remember to go out into the city safely and responsibly. Keep a safe distance, wear a mask when needed and get vaccinated.
Thursday, March 3
Family Carnival Opening Night at the Outlets of Little Rock // You don’t have to wait until fall for a fair bit of fun. Carnival games, rides and fried foods await in the parking lot all month long, starting Thursday at 5 p.m. Learn more here.
First Anniversary Bash at Bloom Salon // Somehow it’s been a whole year since the Hillcrest salon first opened its doors. To mark the occasion, they’re celebrating with bingo (and prizes!), tacos from Lili’s Mexican street food truck and drinks, all benefiting The Centers for Youth and Families. The fun starts at 5:30 p.m. Learn more here.
Speaking of anniversaries, it’s our 20th! Explore 20 Years of Soirée: A Trip Through the Archives
Winter Margaritafest at The Hall // Pass the salt. Now that we’ve got all the ice storms behind us (knock on wood), this fest and its rescheduled date are ready to pour the deliciousness. Nine local restaurants will compete for best marg while La Terraza and Tacos Godoy serve the eats and Club 27 supplies the music. It all goes to benefit the Little Rock Zoo, and we can definitely raise a glass to that. It starts at 6 p.m. Proof of vaccine required. Learn more here.
Women’s Project Exhibit Launch // You already know who runs the world. Coinciding with Women’s History Month, the Arkansas People’s History Project is debuting a multimedia digital exhibit honoring a team of women who took on injustice in the ’80s and ’90s. The launch includes speakers Andrea Hope Howard, Damita Jo Marks, Kandi Williams and Suzanne Pharr. It kicks off at 6 p.m. Learn more here.
Friday, March 4
“School Girls; Or, The African Mean Girls Play” Opening Night at the Arkansas Repertory Theatre // Teen drama is way funnier when you’re grown. Next up at The Rep is this award-winning comedy telling the story of Paulina, the most popular girl at Ghana’s most exclusive boarding school, as she faces off against new girl (and challenger) Ericka. Showtime is 8 p.m. Masks and proof of vaccination or negative test required. Learn more here.
Saturday, March 5
Meet the Makers at Nexus Coffee & Creative // It’s all about shopping local this Saturday and we are all for it. A handful of area creators will set up in the downtown coffee shop for you to peruse, and something tells us they’ll pair well with coffee and pastries. Check it out 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Learn more here.
Market at Chenal at 21 Rahling Circle // After launching last fall, the European-style outdoor market is back. Shoppers will find fresh produce and goods, food trucks, vendors and family-friendly activities. Stop in 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Learn more here.
Spring Fling Market at BoBrook Farms // Keep the fresh air coming. This outdoor market has food trucks, lawn games, Easter Bunny photos and booths from more than 50 local vendors. Oh, did we mention the farm has its own winery? Be there 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Learn more here.
More market news: Little Rock Farmers Market Sets 2022 Opening Date
Forever Thrifted Vintage Swap Meet at the Main Street Pocket Park // More fresh air, more fresh finds. Local thrift pro La Rosa Antigua is kicking off a new series featuring vendors with vintage clothing, homegoods and more, plus music and food trucks. Stop by 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Learn more here.
Turning Pointe Gala at Wildwood Park for the Arts // Cue the confetti! After a two-year hiatus, Ballet Arkansas’ 10th annual signature fundraiser returns with the theme, well, “Confetti.” A night of fine dining and dance across the gardens awaits guests, with cocktails, auctions and entertainment provided by the Ballet Arkansas company dancers. Cocktail hour begins at 6 p.m. Learn more here.
Friday-Sunday, March 4-6
“Hairspray” at the Robinson Center // LR looks a bit like Baltimore this weekend. Get ready to hear hits like “You Can’t Stop the Beat” and “The Nicest Kids in Town” live as the Tony-winning musical takes the stage with Tracy and the crew and a whole lot of groove. Masks required. Learn more here.
Saturday & Sunday, March 5 & 6
Little Rock Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K and 10K // We know what you’re thinking: Wasn’t the marathon just a few months ago? Yes, after COVID postponements, the 2021 race was held in November, but 2022 is getting the spring run back on track. Spanning two days and with the theme “Legendary,” the kids marathon, 5K and 10K take place Saturday morning, with the marathon and half marathon taking off Sunday morning. Learn more here.
Psst! Non-runners, avoid these places at all costs.