It’s a busy weekend in the metro with festivals, concerts, art shows and much more. Let’s get into it.
Thursday, March 7
First Thursday Shop & Sip in Hillcrest // It’s the first Thursday of the month, and you know what that means — time to get your Hillcrest shop ‘n’ sip on. Soak up the Kavanaugh vibes while you take advantage of the specials, later hours and extra fun, like live music from The Magic Hills in the Hillcrest Fine Wines & Liquor parking lot. It kicks off at 5 p.m. Learn more here.
Neighborhood News: The Heights, Hillcrest, Midtown & Riverdale
Friday, March 8
2nd Friday Art Night in Downtown Little Rock // It’s 2FAN time, the monthly roundup of downtown businesses opening their doors for an after-hours gallery walk. Highlights this month include an eclipse-themed “Celestial Social” at Bella Vita, art vendors at the CALS Rock It! Lab and live music and art shows at the Historic Arkansas Museum and Old State House Museum. 2FAN runs 5-8 p.m. Learn more here.
Mid-Southern Watercolorists Juried Exhibition Opening Night at Laman Library // You could use a little more color in your life. This exhibition is now in its 54th year and features the works of watercolorists from across the country who competed for a spot in the show. The evening begins with an award ceremony at 5:30 p.m. Learn more here.
More local art: Garbo Hearne and the Art of Legacy
Thursday & Friday, March 7 & 8
Cult Classic Movies at Ron Robinson Theater // The popcorn is flowing once again at the downtown theater, and the lineups keep pulling us in, especially with this month’s spotlight on strong female leads. Up first is “Thelma and Louise” on Thursday, then “Terminator 2: Judgement Day” on Friday. Both screenings start at 7 p.m. Learn more here.
Saturday, March 9
Citywide Cleanup across the metro // This weekend you have a chance to 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 various 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 Interstate Park at 8:30 a.m. Learn more here.
Garden Fest at Laman Library // We may still be a few weeks away from the official first day of spring, but since Mother Nature seems ready to get the ball rolling early, so is the NLR Public Library System. Expect gardening workshops, food trucks, hands-on activities, vendors, giveaways and more. Stop by 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Learn more here.
Just across the street: Argenta Community Theater Announces New Name, 15th Anniversary Season
“Dragons Love Tacos” Opening Day at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts // And kids love dragons and tacos. The AMFA Children’s Theatre’s latest production brings the funny, fire-breathing and New York Times-bestselling book of Adam Rubin to life on the stage all month long. It’s debut showtime is 10:30 a.m. Learn more here.
Shamrock Shuffle 5K at Two Rivers Park // We can’t guarantee a pot of gold at the finish line, but you can expect green beer. This third annual run is, of course, St. Patrick’s Day-themed, and it all goes to benefit the Ronald McDonald House’s Red Shoe Crew. Start time is 2 p.m. Learn more here.
Keep the sneakers on: This Self-Led Sculpture Tour Explores the River Market Art Scene
Picassos at the Junior League of Little Rock // Your walls need a little TLC? Give them the upgrade they deserve at this biennial fine art auction that doubles as a fundraiser for Pulaski Heights Elementary. The night includes music, food, drinks and lots of works from local artists up for grabs. The games begin at 6 p.m. Learn more here.
PSA: One of the city’s most popular galas, Ballet Arkansas’ Turning Pointe, is sold out for Saturday night, but you can still donate or bid on virtual auction items to show your support.
Thursday – Saturday, March 7-9
FOCAL Used Book Sale at 7773 Sloane Drive // Time to get a head start on that summer reading list. With the Main Library undergoing extensive renovations, the CALS temporary offices in the Port Industrial Hub are now full of gently read books, and for the pocket change price tag, they are practically calling your name. FOCAL members can get in early on Thursday from 3-5 p.m. For everyone else, sale hours are 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Pro tip: Bring a backpack, or maybe a U-Haul. Learn more here.
Sunday, March 10
Lost & Found Market at Dog Eat Dog // Another local market? You have our attention. Hosted by the East Village shop, this market makes its debut this weekend with more than 30 vendors showcasing their art, vintage goods and much more. Come shop 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Learn more here.
Patio Season Kickoff at Rusty Tractor Vineyards // You just found your Sunday fun day. Kick back on the Sunset Lodge patio (or indoor sunroom) and enjoy the food trucks, live music and lots of sips. Be there noon – 4 p.m. Learn more here.
Soup Sunday at The Venue at Westwind // Hope you’re hungry. Hosted by Arkansas Advocates for Children and Families, Soup Sunday pulls in tons of soups, breads and treats from some of Little Rock’s finest and favorite restaurants, all to raise money for the organization. The good eats go down from 4-7 p.m. Learn more here.
Read on: Meet this year’s co-chairs Danyelle Walker and Shannon Collier-Tenison
Friday – Sunday, March 8-10
Arkansas Symphony Orchestra Concerts at the Robinson Center // The ASO is staying busy this weekend. First up is the annual free children’s concert “Symphony Safari” that you can attend in person or virtually on Friday. After that, the ASO continues its Pops Series with “She’s Got Soul” featuring powerhouse vocalist Capathia Jenkins performing soul and R&B hits. Learn more here.
Saturday & Sunday, March 9 & 10
Central Arkansas Home & Garden Show at the Arkansas State Fairgrounds // This week’s warm weather have you itching to break out your inner HGTV host? This local showcase will do the trick. Formerly the Little Rock Home Show, this annual event features vendors and experts in home improvement, remodeling, interior design and outdoor solutions. It runs 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. both days. Learn more here.