And while we’re on the St. Pat’s fun, can someone tell the winter weather to stop rolling in on the weekends? Ok, thanks. 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 10
“The Little Mermaid Jr.” Opening Night at The Studio Theatre // Gadgets, gizmos, thingamabobs? This show’s got plenty of everything. As one of the theater’s “Jr.” productions, the show features a cast of local kids and young adults bringing the Disney classic to life on stage. Showtime is 7:30 p.m. Masks required. Learn more here.
Friday, March 11
Second Friday Art Night in downtown Little Rock // Bring on the 2FAN. It’s time for the monthly roundup of downtown businesses opening their doors for an after-hours gallery walk. Highlights this month include hands-on Women’s History Month activities at the Old State House Museum and live entertainment and exhibit openings at The Galleries Bookstore at Library Square. The fun lasts 5-8 p.m. Learn more here.
Saturday, March 12
13th Annual Citywide Cleanup across the metro // This weekend you have a chance to do your civic duty and help The Natural State live up to its name. The effort is hosted by Keep Little Rock Beautiful and is part of the Great American Citywide Cleanup. There are lots of organized activities being led by neighborhood or volunteer groups, so pick one (or go solo) and roll up your sleeves. A kickoff event will be held at UA Little Rock at 8 a.m. Learn more here.
Shamrock Shuffle 5K at Two Rivers Park // We can’t guarantee gold at the finish line, but you can expect green beer. This inaugural run is, of course, St. Patrick’s Day-themed, and it all goes to benefit the Ronald McDonald House’s Red Shoe Crew. Thanks to weather concerns, the start time has been pushed back to 11:30 a.m. Learn more here.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade in downtown Little Rock and Argenta // Keep your green on and head downtown for the 21st annual parade. (2020 was supposed to be the 21st, but, you know.) Put on by the Irish Cultural Society of Arkansas, the parade begins at Sixth and Main in Argenta and wraps up at Third and Cumberland across the river. Expect leprechauns, Irish wolfhounds, bands, Irish dancers, floats and lots more. The parade kicks off at 1 p.m. Learn more here.
Dugan’s Pub Block Party // Just go ahead and clear your schedule. After the parade wraps up next door, the street stays closed on this bit of Third so guests can load up on live music, eats, drinks and vendors, all in the name of St. Pat. The fun lasts until midnight. Learn more here.
Green beer not your thing? Big Orange Launches Two New Spring Cocktail Menus
Movement in the Parks at First Security Amphitheater // Who doesn’t love an outdoor arts performance? Ballet Arkansas is bringing back its popular series of free, public performances this weekend. Grab a blanket and stretch out in Riverfront Park for a perfect Saturday afternoon. Catch the show at 2 or 6 p.m. Learn more here.
Friday & Saturday, March 11 & 12
Goosebumps: A Musical Fundraising Event at The Public Theatre // Springtime can be creepy, too. Benefiting and put on by The Local Artists Project, this show features songs from the new (nostalgic!) musical “Goosebumps: Phantom of the Auditorium.” Showtime is 7:30 p.m. both nights. Learn more here.
Saturday & Sunday, March 12 & 13
“Tribute to the Queen of Soul: Aretha Franklin” at the Robinson Center // In respect to this icon, we’ll never say “don’t play that song” to any of her records because there ain’t nothing like the real thing. We’ll be here all week. The Arkansas Symphony Orchestra is finally bringing the queen to life on stage after postponing for two years, featuring returning favorite Capathia Jenkins and Grammy nominee Ryan Shaw. You have two chances to catch the show: 7:30 p.m. on Saturday and 3 p.m. on Sunday. Masks required. Learn more here.
Friday-Sunday, March 11-13
Bella Rustina Modern Vintage Market at War Memorial Stadium // Rejoice, estate sale lovers. This beloved market is back in its original location, complete with more than 225 booths of antique decor, vintage furniture and upcycled pieces from all over the country, plus food trucks and treats to keep you going. Shopping hours are 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Sunday. Learn more here.
Vintage Market Days at the Arkansas State Fairgrounds // Not enough vintage love for you? This traveling market is back with the theme “Home Sweet Home” and giving locals their fill of clothing, outdoor furnishings, antiques, art, home goods and more. Shopping hours are 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. all three days. Learn more here.
Thursday-Saturday, March 10-12
FOCAL Used Book Sale at the CALS Main Library // Time to get a head start on that summer reading list. The library basement is full of thousands of gently read books, and for the pocket change price tag, they are practically calling your name. FOCAL members can get early entry on Thursday night. For the rest of us, sale hours are 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday. Pro tip: Bring a backpack. Masks required. Learn more here.
Thursday-Sunday, March 10-13
Acansa Arts Festival at various locations in the metro // A lot of fan-favorite events are making their grand return this weekend, and this Southern arts festival is one of them. Spanning the course of three weekends, the schedule is packed with all sorts of performances on both sides of the river. The hard part is choosing which events to attend. Masks required at all events. Learn more here.
Add to calendar: Here’s What to Expect at Acansa 2022