A new month is here and you can feel the summertime vibes taking over the city. From outdoor markets to “Jaws,” the event lineup is all sunshine (even if the forecast isn’t). Let’s get into it.
Thursday, May 30
Rabbit Ridge Farms Dinner at Sterling Market // It doesn’t get much more fresh than this. Straight out of Bee Branch, this menu is serving up six courses of farm-to-table goodness, including roast pork loin, beef tartare, skillet cornbread and a full bar. Dinnertime is 6:30 p.m. Learn more here.
Passport Dinner: Spain at Petit & Keet // For flavors not of this continent, make plans to hit the latest in this WLR restaurant’s Passport Dinner series. The menu is curated by executive chef Alan Napier and sous chef Jessica Basto, and includes chicken and sausage paella, tomato gazpacho, almond tarts and more. It starts at 6:30 p.m. Learn more here.
More good eats: Miracle League of Arkansas to Host Annual Burger Competition
Saturday, June 1
Tour de Rock // Pulling in cyclists from across the country, this open-course ride winds through the metro before landing back at the finish line in North Little Rock. Afterward, riders and supporters can hit the after party at the First Security Amphitheater complete with food, music and a beer garden, all to support the work of CARTI. It all begins at 6 a.m. Learn more here.
More of a biking beginner? 4 Expert Cycling Tips for a Safe, Smooth Ride
Feel the Burn Trail Run at Burns Park // Hope you’re hydrated. This traveling series invites runners out to complete 10K, 30K or 50K routes throughout the NLR park, and with some fantastic sightseeing along the way. The day’s events start at 6 a.m. Learn more here.
ARTStravaganza at ART Outfitters // This local art supply store has been serving up creativity to central Arkansas for more than 140 years. To mark the occasion, it’s hosting a day full of art demonstrations and specials. Doors open at 10 a.m. Learn more here.
SoMa Pride on South Main Street // Hosted by SoMa 501 and Central Arkansas Pride, this inaugural festival and parade is pulling out the stops for its first year. Expect food trucks, vendors, live music, drag performances, a designated zone for families and, of course, a rainbow-fueled parade down South Main. Festivities run from 10:30 a.m. – 5 p.m., with the parade taking place at noon. Learn more here.
Thursday – Saturday, May 30 – June 1
Classic Movies at Ron Robinson Theater // The popcorn is flowing once again at the CALS theater in the River Market. Up first is “American Graffiti” on Thursday, followed by “Dazed and Confused” on Friday and “Jaws” on Saturday. Showtime is 7 p.m. each night. Learn more here.
Save the dates: Terror Tuesdays Return to Ron Robinson Theater
Sunday, June 2
Lost & Found Block Party Market at Sterling Market // East Village powers combining? We love to see it. Sterling, Fidel & Co., Dog Eat Dog and Lost & Found are teaming up for a day of local artists, makers, food and vintage finds. Stop by 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Learn more here.
Arkansas Classics: “The Legend of Boggy Creek” at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts // The Arkansas Cinema Society is setting its lens on the local scene for its latest film series. Kicking off the lineup is this 1972 docudrama detailing an iconic piece of Arkansas lore: the Fouke Monster. Showtime is 2:30 p.m. Learn more here.
Even more film news: Rooftop Cinema Series Announces Summer Movie Lineup
Thursday – Sunday, May 30 – June 2
Little Rock Open at Rebsamen Tennis Center // Now this is a good call. UAMS is wrapping up eight days of free pro tennis matches and camps, and the fun runs through the weekend. Learn more here.