Kids’ activities, brunch parties, Dolly Parton — it’s a good weekend to be in Little Rock. Let’s get into it.
Thursday, July 13
Grand Reopening at The Book Store // Your TBR list is about to get longer. This Park Hill shop has been getting a facelift the past few weeks, and now it’s ready to reopen and celebrate. It kicks off with a ribbon cutting ceremony at 11:30 a.m. Learn more here.
Friday, July 14
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 the Hop-Off brewing competition at Historic Arkansas Museum, a Sadie Cake Art pop-up at Bella Vita, an Arkansas musician spotlight at UA Little Rock Downtown and live music at the Old State House Museum. And that’s just the beginning. 2FAN is keeping the party going this summer with a pop-up market, live music, food trucks and more at Capitol Plaza. The traditional 2FAN runs 5-8 p.m., then 2FAN After Hours runs until 10 p.m. Learn more here.
More arts news: Acansa Arts Festival of the South Announces 2023 Lineup
Summer Concert Series at Dugan’s Pub // This isn’t your typical pub act. Dugan’s is cranking up the summertime vibes with a Third Street block party, where the streets will close for music (this time from Secondhand Cannons), fun and good eats. It starts at 7 p.m. Learn more here.
“Children of Eden” Opening Night at The Weekend Theater // The downtown theater’s latest production takes things all the way back to the very beginning. Telling the first nine chapters of the Book of Genesis, from Adam to Noah, this musical reframes each story through the personal lens of family. Showtime is 7:30 p.m. Learn more here.
Saturday, July 15
Sixth Birthday Celebration at Nexus Coffee & Creative // We’ll raise a cup of joe to that. Tasty drinks, sweet treats, local artisans, giveaways and lots of live music are all part of the downtown coffee shop’s celebrations. Get in on the fun all day from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Learn more here.
Keep that cup raised: Stone’s Throw Block on Rock 10th Birthday Bash Hits the Streets
Super Summer Saturdays at the Clinton Presidential Center // Escape the heat with your kiddos at the Clinton Center’s annual summer series that gets all ages involved with free educational activities. The event coincides with the center’s newest temporary exhibit, “Dinosaur Explorer,” complete with dino-themed activities and crafts. Fun is in session 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Adult admission is required to tour permanent exhibits. Learn more here.
Bloodies, Bubbles & Brunch at Rusty Tractor Vineyards // When you can’t decide where to go for brunch, you go to a brunch festival. The Arkansas Times event team is once again hosting this indoor bash featuring brunch bites from around the metro, plus fun takes on bloody marys and bubbly cocktails. Be there 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Learn more here.
Stay hungry: It’s Rock City Burger Week
Thursday & Saturday, July 13 & 15
Memorial Art Exhibition at the Pleasant Ridge Town Center // More art? Don’t mind if we do. Hosted by the Engel & Volkers real estate group, this exhibit features work from local artists Meikel Church, Laura Welshans, Cary Smith, Matthew Castellano, Shea Thrash and Michelle Renee. Meet the artists at the Thursday reception from 5-7:30 p.m. or visit the open house on Saturday 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Either way, you can take home some new artwork knowing proceeds benefit Our House. Learn more here.
Thursday – Saturday, July 13-15
FOCAL Used Book Sale at the CALS Main Library // We spoke too soon about the long TBR list. The library basement is packed full of gently read books, and for the pocket change price tag (only $1 each!), they’re practically calling your name. Friends of CALS (FOCAL) members and their plus-ones can get early entry on Thursday night 5-7 p.m.. 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. Learn more here.
Classic Movies at Ron Robinson Theater // Since you’re in the neighborhood… The popcorn is flowing once again at the downtown theater, and the lineups keep catching our eye. Up first is “9 to 5” on Thursday, then “The Sandlot” on Friday and an interactive showing of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” on Saturday at 9 p.m.. Showtime is 7 p.m. the previous nights. Learn more here.
Sunday, July 16
National Loblolly Day at Loblolly Creamery // Scoops all around! Where else to celebrate National Ice Cream Day than with your favorite local scoop shop? They’ll be slinging limited edition flavors, hosting giveaways, dropping new merch and having fun all day. Swing by noon – 9 p.m. Learn more here.
Stay cool: 8 Local Frozen Treats to Help You Weather a Southern Summer
Sunday Funday at Rusty Tractor Vineyards // Sunday scaries? We don’t know her. Patio hangs and food trucks (hi, Grilled Sandwich Company) await at the vineyard’s Sunset Lodge, plus beer, wine, cocktails and live music by Sarah Cecil. Stop by noon – 4 p.m. Learn more here.
LRLM Happy Campers Market at Camp Taco // Hope you brought your wallet to camp. The Little Rock Little Market is popping up at the East Village restaurant with a great lineup of local vendors, live music from Posey Hill and, of course, eats and drinks from Camp Taco. Be there 2-8 p.m. Learn more here.
Friday – Sunday, July 14-16
Paws at the Net Tournament at Rebsamen Tennis Center // It’s a love-love situation. This three-day, USTA-sanctioned, downright adorable tennis tournament benefits Central Arkansas Rescue Effort for Animals. Attendees will enjoy competitive matches, food, drinks, vendors and will even get to meet some of CARE’s rescued cats and dogs that are up for adoption. Learn more here.
Speaking of adorable: See who won the 2023 Soirée Cutest Dog Contest