Somehow we’re in the second half of the month already, but there’s still plenty of local fun on the books. Let’s get into it.
Thursday, May 16
Blippi: The Wonderful World Tour at the Simmons Bank Arena // Ok, we know some of you aren’t exactly Blippi’s biggest fans, but there’s a good chance your little ones are. Embrace the orange glasses for a night and make their day at this show packed with monster trucks, tractors and lots of music. Showtime is 6 p.m. Learn more here.
Friday, May 17
Third Friday Art Walk in Argenta // Lace up your comfy shoes because this monthly walk invites you to stroll through the Argenta Arts District’s lineup of special exhibits and events. Highlights include a Katherine Strause exhibit opening at Argenta Library, a skateboard exhibit at Acansa Gallery and some hands-on fun at The Hub. The Art Walk starts at 5 p.m. Learn more here.
Read on: Neighborhood News from Downtown & Argenta
Art Night at the Brandon House Cultural & Performing Arts Center // If you’re getting your dose of art further west this weekend, head to Colonel Glenn. Brandon House will be highlighting the work of local artist Evan Gilliard, complete with wine and light bites. Stop by 6-8 p.m. Learn more here.
This is What Dreams Are Made Of: A Disney & 2000s Dance Party at The Hall // Cheers to some good ol’ Y2K nostalgia. This traveling bash is packing your Friday with feel-good bops — think: NSYNC, Mandy Moore, S Club 7, High School Musical, B*Witched — and with lip-sync battles and photo-ops. Doors open at 8 p.m. Learn more here.
Saturday, May 18
Young Arkansas Artists Exhibit Opening at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts // For 63 years, the AMFA has featured works from kids all over the state, from kindergarteners to high school seniors, choosing the best of the best from dozens of entries. A ceremony celebrating the featured artists takes place in the morning, followed by select works making their debut on the museum walls. Learn more here.
PSA: The Arkansas Foodbank’s signature event Empty Bowls is sold out, but you can still donate to help the nonprofit reach its fundraising goal. More on that here. Want to feel like you’re there? Make these bacon onion marmalade green beans from the event menu.
Thursday – Saturday, May 16-18
Birthday Celebration at Petit & Keet // We’re getting hungry already. This WLR restaurant is marking seven years in the biz with menu specials, champagne toasts and the return of seven of its classic cocktails. Operating hours are 4-10 p.m. Thursday and 4-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Learn more here. Bonus: They’re not the only ones celebrating a birthday this weekend. You can also party with ZAZA’s and Flying Saucer.
More foodie news: The Buttered Biscuit Set to Open First Little Rock Location May 29
Friday – Sunday, May 17-19
Pulaski County Fair at NLR Riverfront Park // Dibs on the funnel cake. This fourth annual event is taking to the north shore, inviting guests to enjoy rides, games, vendors, themed music nights and, yes, plenty of fried food. A portion of the proceeds will go to NLR Parks & Recreation. Fair hours are 5-10 p.m. Learn more here.
Made in Arkansas Film Festival at Ron Robinson Theater // Now in its sixth year, this fest is designed to promote local talent by showcasing films made right here in The Natural State. Filmmakers from across Arkansas submitted their films, and the featured selections will be screened for the public over the course of three days. Learn more here.
Saturday & Sunday, May 18 & 19
Market Crawl Through the Metro // Longtime readers know we can’t resist a local market, and this weekend’s lineup is making our head spin (in a good way). And instead of competing, they’re all joining forces (in a fantastic way). Stop at all four, get your card stamped and you’re entered to win some local goodies. More on that here. Even better? You just spent two days supporting local makers. The participating markets are:
- Saturday: Pocket Park Pop-Up at the Main Street Pocket Park
- Saturday: Mutants Vendor Market at Flyway Brewing
- Sunday: East Village Art Market at The Rail Yard
- Saturday & Sunday: Market Market Market at Good Weather Gallery
Sweet Summertime Market at BoBrook Farms // Yes, another one, and no, it’s not technically summer yet, but it’s hot enough to count. Break out your warm weather garb and enjoy this two-day, open air market with more than 50 local vendors, lawn games, food trucks and River Bottom Winery sips. It runs from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Saturday and noon – 5 p.m. Sunday. Learn more here.