There are always great things to do in the Natural State, and AY About You has compiled some of the biggest events in Arkansas this weekend—from county fairs and eating competitions to Chuckwagon races and car shows galore. Don’t miss Heather Baker on 103.7 The Buzz’s Morning Mayhem Fridays for the latest event scoop.
Thursday, Aug. 27
Jase Robertson from “Duck Dynasty” – Thursday, Aug. 27
Where: First Financial Music Hall (El Dorado)
When: 6:45 p.m. (dinner begins at 5:30 p.m.)
South Arkansas Fishers of Men is excited to welcome A&E’s “Duck Dynasty” star JASE ROBERTSON to El Dorado for an unforgettable night of faith, family, hunting stories, laughter and encouragement! The Wood’s Place Catfish Dinner begins at 5:30 p.m. Whether you’re a “Duck Dynasty” fan, an outdoorsman, or simply looking for a great night out with friends and family, this is an event you won’t want to miss.
Seersucker Soirée – Thursday, Aug. 27
Where: Stella Boyle Smith Music Building (Little Rock)
When: 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Seersucker Soirée is a night of cool jazz to close out the hot summer. ASO jazz musicians will play while patrons sip and sway the night away in their chicest of summertime fashion. Tickets are $30 per person. Cocktails, wine, beer, and light appetizers are included in the ticket price.
Comedian David Bair – Thursday, Aug. 27
Where: The Loony Bin (Little Rock)
When: 8 p.m.
David Bair is a local comic from Little Rock. Head out for some good laughs while supporting local talent!
Arkansas Women’s Hall of Fame – Thursday, Aug. 27
Where: North Little Rock Event Center
When: 5:30 p.m.
Support the accomplishments and achievements of the women of Arkansas as we honor the historical impact they’ve made in our great state. This year’s inductees include Cynthia East, Marsha Martin, Cynthia Nance, Sharon Allen (1944-2021), Phyllis Brandon (1935-2020), Dorothy Caldwell (1935-2023) and Vada Sheid (1916-2008).
Fayetteville Farmers Market – Thursday, Aug. 27
Where: Downtown Square (Fayetteville)
When: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Springdale Farmers Market – Thursday, Aug. 27
Where: The Jones Center (Springdale)
When: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Eureka Springs Farmers Market – Thursday, Aug. 27
Where: Eureka Springs Community Center Lawn (Eureka Springs)
When: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
READ ALSO: THINGS TO DO IN ARKANSAS
Thursday, Aug. 27 – Saturday, Aug. 29
Washington County Fair – Thursday, Aug. 27 – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: Washington County Fairgrounds (Fayetteville)
When: Gates open at 10 a.m. on Thursday and Friday, 9 a.m. on Saturday
Get ready for livestock shows, carnival rides, exhibits, special events, fair food and plenty more packed into this fun weekend! There’s a lot to see, a lot to do and probably more than you can fit into one trip!
Randolph County Fair – Thursday, Aug. 27 – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: Randolph County Fairgrounds (Pocahontas)
When: Opens at 12 p.m. on Thursday, 8 a.m. on Friday, and 9 a.m. on Saturday
While the fun technically started on Monday, there’s so much more you won’t want to miss! Some of the remaining highlights include shows for goats, sheep, and swine; the rodeo; a horseshoe-pitching contest; a wood-cutting competition; a baggo competition; and the livestock awards ceremony, followed by a scholarship auction. Plus, live on-stage entertainment every night!
Howard County Fair – Thursday, Aug. 27 – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: Howard County Fairgrounds (Nashville, Arkansas)
When: The exhibit building opens at 8 a.m. each day. The carnival is from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, and from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday.
Get ready for a weekend packed with family fun, livestock shows, bull & bronc riding action, carnival rides, mutton bustin’, the ranch rodeo, live entertainment and more!
Thursday, Aug. 27 – Sunday, Aug. 30
“Hamilton” – Thursday, Aug. 27 – Sunday, Aug. 30
Where: The Robinson Center (Little Rock)
When: 7:30 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Saturday, 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Sunday
“Hamilton” is the epic saga that follows the rise of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton as he fights for honor, love and a legacy that would shape the course of a nation. Based on Ron Chernow’s acclaimed biography and set to a score that blends hip-hop, jazz, R&B and Broadway, the musical has had a profound impact on culture, politics and education.
AirPower History Tour – Thursday, Aug. 27 – Sunday, Aug. 30
Where: Arkansas Air and Military Museum (Fayetteville)
When: Begins at 9 a.m., but times vary by booking
Don’t miss your opportunity to fly in a historic aircraft, including the iconic B-29 Superfortress “FIFI,” AT-6 Texan “Nella,” PT-13 Stearman and RC-45J SNB Big Oily Beast “BOB.”
Germany’s Great Bavarian Circus – Thursday, Aug. 27 – Sunday, Aug. 30
Where: Northwest Arkansas Mall (Fayetteville)
When: Showtimes vary
Founded in Bavaria and performed by generations of the Spindler family, Germany’s Great Bavarian Circus brings breathtaking aerial acts, acrobatics, juggling, comedy and unforgettable family entertainment straight to Fayetteville!
Bugtopia! Wonder Magnified! – Thursday, Aug. 27 – Sunday, Aug. 30 (runs through Sept. 20)
Where: Little Rock Zoo
When: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily
Climb, play and learn among animatronic bugs and larger-than-life sculptures, including a 12-foot jumping stick, an eight-foot monarch butterfly, a 15-foot-tall praying mantis and a climbable six-foot caterpillar… and that’s just the beginning! This hands-on adventure invites guests of all ages to explore the incredible world beneath our feet. Discover how every insect—from the dazzling butterfly to the hardworking ant—plays a vital role in life on Earth, and watch their stories come to life right before your eyes.
“Painting the Arkansas Parks” – Thursday, Aug. 27 – Sunday, Aug. 30 (runs through Sept. 20 at this location)
Where: Mississippi River State Park Visitor Center Exhibit Hall (Marianna)
When: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
This traveling exhibition includes the work of 25 artists who participated in the Heart of America Artists’ Association’s multi-year initiative. Each created a plein air study painted on location at one of seven Arkansas parks, later completing a large studio painting inspired by the outdoor work. Artists are showcasing their sizable studio artwork along with the smaller étude, or study, by which it was inspired, created from their participation in one of the park events. After Marianna, the art exhibit will travel to Little Rock, Fort Smith, Cane Hill, Mena and Texarkana.
Scavenger Hunt: Big Fun in Little Rock – Thursday, Aug. 27 – Sunday, Aug. 30 (runs through Oct. 20)
Where: Locations vary across Little Rock
When: Times vary
Why did the Little Rock scavenger hunt cross the river? To explore all the hidden gems in the River Market neighborhood, of course! Join now on this exciting adventure, navigating through historic landmarks, green spaces and epic sculptures without breaking a sweat. Discover the beauty and charm of Little Rock while solving clues and completing challenges along the way. Get ready to uncover the secrets of a city with a rich history and vibrant culture. From statues to presidential parks to international gates, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
“Where the Wind Lives” – Thursday, Aug. 27 – Sunday, Aug. 30 (runs through Oct. 31)
Where: Garvan Woodland Gardens (Hot Springs)
When: Open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Guests are invited to witness “Where the Wind Lives,” a sweeping, large-scale kinetic art exhibition created by internationally acclaimed artist Patrick Shearn and his team at Poetic Kinetics. The immersive project stretches across multiple areas of the gardens, blending art, engineering and nature into a moving, sky-bound spectacle.
Friday, Aug. 28
Salt Bowl 2026 – Friday, Aug. 28
Where: Hornet Stadium (Bryant)
When: 7 p.m.
One of Arkansas’ all-time classic football rivalries (Benton Panthers vs. Bryant Hornets) is making its return! This year marks the second year the game has been played locally, following years of near-capacity crowds at War Memorial Stadium in Little Rock. Salt Bowl 2026 will carry the theme of “Stars, Stripes and Friday Night Lights,” celebrating America’s 250th birthday.
The Opening of Putt Chip Chill – Friday, Aug. 28
Where: 5403 Northshore Cove (North Little Rock)
When: 10 a.m.
Putt Chip Chill, a new 2-acre golf entertainment venue, is officially opening! The property features a mini-golf course with 27 individual greens and 45 hole locations, creating a unique experience for players of all skill levels. Plus, tons of amenities you’re going to love!
Alicia’s Wheel of Deals – Friday, Aug. 28
Where: 2625 Donaghey, Ste. 111 (Conway)
When: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Alicia’s thrift store will have a ‘wheel of deals’ for customers to spin before check out! Customers must have at least $10 of Alicia’s merch (vendor items are not included in the wheel of deals/other discounts). There will also be $4 mystery bags, a $1 fill-a-bag room and more!
GROWNCOMING: The Ultimate Upscale Classic Weekend Experience – Friday, Aug. 28
Where: Little Rock Marriott
When: 8 p.m. to 1 a.m.
For those who appreciate the finer side of a classic weekend, prepare for an evening where sophistication, music and culture come together high above the city. This event is curated for professionals, alumni, entrepreneurs and those who know that the best celebrations don’t need introductions.
7th Annual Bridge the Gap – Friday, Aug. 28
Where: Riverfront Park (North Little Rock)
When: 5 p.m.
This powerful evening brings together over 1,200 attendees each year to raise awareness, honor the lives lost, and stand united against the opioid epidemic and fentanyl crisis. Highlights include guest speakers, awareness banners, a memorial service, food trucks, community vendors, kids’ activities and more.
End of Summer Block Party – Friday, Aug. 28
Where: 508 N Lincoln St (Cabot)
When: 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Expect a live DJ, karaoke, instructor-led line dancing, yard games and a photo booth! Whether you’re ready to dance, sing your heart out, challenge your friends to a game or snap some fun photos, there’s something for everyone. The line dance instructor will teach every step, so no experience is needed—just bring your energy and have fun!
Friday, Aug. 28 – Saturday, Aug. 29
51st Queen Wilhelmina Rod Run – Friday, Aug. 28 – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: Janssen Park on Friday, Queen Wilhelmina State Park on Saturday (Mena)
When: Registration begins at 12 p.m. on Friday and 8 a.m. on Saturday
You won’t want to miss out on this 2-day event. The winding mountain road leading up to Queen Wilhelmina Lodge, the “Castle in the Sky,” will put your car and your driving through its paces. The event offers two chances to Show-N-Shine, along with numerous prizes and trophies. Award categories include Top 10, People’s Choice, Kids Choice, Longest Distance Driven, Best Interior, Best Paint, Best Engine, Best Rat Rod, Best 4×4, Best Bike and the Mark Campbell Award. The Mountain Market at Rod Run also caters to an audience of up to 3,000, as car enthusiasts and families flock to this event for a day of fun in the clouds. We welcome automotive, handmade, vintage, food and information vendors.
Comedian Shapel Lacey – Friday, Aug. 28 – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: The Loony Bin (Little Rock)
When: 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. both nights
Shapel was cheerleading competitively for the University of Louisville when someone dared him to take the stage as a comedian, and he never looked back, dropping out shortly thereafter to pursue a career in stand-up full-time. His unique life experiences, such as being adopted by a caucasian family at age 15, his punk rock mentality, and his stage presence make for a truly original voice in the comedy community. Diligence and the desire to grow led Shapel from the Phoenix open mic circuit onto main stages, where he regularly performed for comedians such as Bill Burr, Hannibal Buress and Brendan Schaub, and is now headlining clubs across the country.
Friday, Aug. 28 – Sunday, Aug. 30
Bella Rustina Modern Vintage Market – Friday, Aug. 28 – Sunday, Aug. 30
Where: Conway Expo & Event Center
When: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday
At central Arkansas’ original and largest vintage market event, attendees can expect over 350 booths packed with authentic vintage goods, unique handmade creations, trendy boutique fashion, accessories and more. Make sure to come hungry! Enjoy food trucks and sweet treats like handmade fried pies, kettle corn, Dole whip, coffee, sweet tea and more.
34th Annual Eureka Springs Volkswagen Festival – Friday, Aug. 28 – Sunday, Aug. 30
Where: Best Western Inn of the Ozarks (Eureka Springs)
When: Begins at 12 p.m. on Friday, 7 a.m. on Saturday, and 9:30 a.m. on Sunday
The Eureka Springs VW Show brings all VW lovers together in one town, featuring two great shows by two different clubs. All profits benefit a local charity in Eureka Springs. On Friday, begin by shopping at the various vendors, then later in the evening, enjoy a pulled pork dinner, conversation and a cocktail party. On Saturday, judging of the Volkswagens begins at 11 a.m.; the parade kicks off at 3 p.m.; the awards show begins after returning from the parade. On Sunday, the VW Tourcade takes off at 9:30 a.m.!
Ozark Euro Rally: German Car Show – Friday, Aug. 28 – Sunday, Aug. 30
Where: Passion Play (Eureka Springs)
When: Festivities begin at 3 p.m. on Friday, 8 a.m. on Saturday and 9 a.m. on Sunday
This is a German MAKE car show only. Audi, Porsche, VW, BMW, Mercedes. There are NO classes! This is a show for enthusiasts who love to show off their vehicles, regardless of how it looks and for those who love the camaraderie that owning a German car brings! Everyone is encouraged to bring out their vehicles.
Jurassic Quest – Friday, Aug. 28 – Sunday, Aug. 30
Where: Rogers Convention Center
When: 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday
Jurassic Quest is the only place where your family can experience the largest and most realistic dinosaur exhibit on tour, featuring true-to-detail (and size!) dinosaurs, including a 60-foot-long, sky-scraping Spinosaurus, an 80-foot-long Apatosaurus, and a gigantic LIFE-SIZE T. rex. Other highlights include a one-of-a-kind interactive baby dinosaur show and raptor training experience, baby dinosaur meet-and-greets, dinosaur rides, dino bounces houses and a bungee pull, fossil digs, Jurassic Jeeps and so much more!
Saturday, Aug. 29
UpStage 2026: Funding Dreams. Rewriting the Script. – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: Clinton Presidential Center Great Hall (Little Rock)
When: Doors open at 5:15 p.m.
After a dazzling first year in the spotlight, Stage 13 has a lot worth taking a bow for. There is no better way to celebrate the theater’s success and help support the next act than by attending its inaugural gala! Guests will be treated to dinner, a complimentary open bar and performances by some of Stage 13’s talented young artists, all while helping fund arts education in Arkansas. Honorary hosts of the event include the Will Feland family, Laura and Dr. Tucker Patterson, Anne and Dr. Ralph Broadwater, and Bob Bidewell.
Mt. Nebo Chicken Fry – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: Mount Nebo State Park (Dardanelle)
When: 7 a.m.
This year’s theme is “Chicken, Pickin’, and Politickin’,” a nod to the event’s long history as a gathering place for food, community and Arkansas political figures. Tyson cooks and Chamber volunteers will serve your choice of grilled chicken or chicken strips, alongside cumin rice, baked beans, potato salad, coleslaw, bread, a cookie and sweet tea or bottled water. The day’s activities include a 10k, chicken calling contest, chicken poop BINGO, a checkers tournament, bounce houses, horse-drawn carriage rides, Model T car rides, a pageant, live music and so much more!
International Primate Day – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: Little Rock Zoo
When: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Many primate species face threats such as habitat loss, poaching and overcollection for the illegal pet trade. Visit the Zoo to learn more! The day’s schedule includes educational tables, keeper chats, a scavenger hunt, scatter feed, gorilla training and more!
Ozark Flame & Flavor Festival – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: Record Downtown (Bentonville)
When: 3:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
The best part of the inaugural Ozark Flame & Flavor Festival? You will have a great time even if you don’t take well to hot and spicy food. But for the flame fanatics in Arkansas and beyond, it will be nothing short of heaven. The festival will feature food – including mild-heat selections – live music and a variety of spicy eating contests.
Product Runway 2026: The Vaudeville Extravaganza – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: Dreamland Ballroom (Little Rock)
When: 6:30 p.m.
Hosted by the South Central Chapter of the American Society for Interior Designers, this signature event places teams of interior design and architecture professionals and students into a high-energy fashion design challenge—creating handmade runway garments out of standard architectural finish materials such as glass, tile, wallcovering, carpet, wood and more. The culmination of these efforts will be a runway fashion show where the garments are modeled by one member of each team, and a panel of judges will score each look based on creativity, execution and interpretation of the theme.
Y!kes Improv: The Craigslist Show – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: Red Curtain Theatre (Conway)
When: 7 p.m.
Join Y!kes Improv at Red Curtain Theatre for a completely unpredictable night of improv where every show prompt will be taken directly from Craigslist. Weird listings, questionable requests, bizarre opportunities and unexpected inspiration could send the performers anywhere!
Arkansas Outdoor Hall of Fame Banquet – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: Statehouse Convention Center (Little Rock)
When: 6 p.m.
Each year, nearly 1,600 outdoor enthusiasts, conservation leaders, business owners, hunters, anglers and supporters of Arkansas’ outdoor heritage gather for one unforgettable evening. This year’s event will honor an exceptional class of inductees and award recipients: Mike Sullivan, Pat Fitts (1965-2025), Mark Hedrick and the Arkansas Waterfowl Association. The evening will feature an induction ceremony, dinner and live entertainment, a “super silent” silent auction, gun raffles and fellowship.
Barrio Fiesta 2026 – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: Shiloh Park Pavilion (Springdale)
When: 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Celebrate Filipino culture, community, food, fashion and music with the Filipino American Organization of Northwest Arkansas (FAONWA)! Enjoy authentic Filipino food, live entertainment, a Filipino fashion show and much more!
50¢ Back-to-School & More Community Event – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: Sixteenth Section Community Center (Austin)
When: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Don’t miss the first 50¢ Back-to-School & More Community Event, where neighbors come together to make everyday essentials more affordable while supporting Cabot Animal Support Services. There is no item, no matter what it is, that is more than 50¢, with many priced at only 25¢! Shop clothing, shoes, toys, books, household items, home décor, seasonal items and much more. Enjoy complimentary coffee and donuts, visit with friends and neighbors, connect in the free craft area for all ages, and enjoy outdoor games (weather permitting) while waiting for the main event to begin. The main event is the First Finds Room, a separate room featuring many of the newest donations!
Bentonville Kids Rave – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: Lawrence Plaza (Bentonville)
When: 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Dive into a vibrant, kid-friendly dance party at Lawrence Plaza Splash Park. Kids Raves combine music and movement, creating a dynamic atmosphere where children can dance and splash to their heart’s content. With lively tunes and the splash pad’s interactive features, it’s an unforgettable experience for the little ones!
Great Southern Stone Skipping Championships – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: Murray Park Boat Launch (Little Rock)
When: 9 a.m.
Bring your friends and family, take in the beautiful scenery of The Natural State, and send a flat stone dancing across the cove. Did we mention the prize money for 1st, 2nd and 3rd Place? Because we have that for both the Adult Flight and the Children’s Flight. All proceeds from the event will go to local food pantries.
Back to Hogwarts – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: Sling Fit (Texarkana)
When: 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Get ready for a full day of wizarding fun, fitness and family-friendly activities! Whether you’re a Gryffindor, Slytherin, Ravenclaw or Hufflepuff, there’s something for every witch, wizard and Muggle. Make your own wand, potions, explore the herbology flower bar and more! Experience the Quidditch Bungee Challenge, where you’ll fly, dodge, score and sweat in this one-of-a-kind bungee fitness experience inspired by the wizarding world! Team up for exciting challenges that combine fitness, fun, and a little friendly competition. Later in the evening, participate in Harry Potter Wand Yoga. Grab your wand and discover your flow during this enchanting yoga class. Expect magical movement, relaxation and a little Hogwarts-inspired fun.
501 Run Club x [back to vida] Collab Run – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: 1424 Main St (Little Rock)
When: 9 a.m.
501 Run Club is teaming up with [back to vida] for a 3-mile community run through Little Rock! Come for the miles and stay for the vibes! Enjoy a live DJ, local vendors, food, artwork and more after the run.
Craft in Common – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts (Little Rock)
When: Times vary by activity, beginning at 10:30 a.m.
Craft in Common is a one-day convening focused on collecting, connoisseurship and exploring one of today’s most transformative art forms: craft. Headlining the day are artist and collector Robyn Horn, a steadfast advocate for the arts and artists, and blacksmith Elizabeth Brim, whose sculptural ironwork has redefined the boundaries of a traditionally male-dominated craft.
Saracen Landing Farmers Market – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: 200 Lake Saracen Drive (Pine Bluff)
When: 6 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Fort Smith Farmers Market on Garrison Avenue – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: Second Street and Garrison Avenue (Fort Smith)
When: 7 a.m. to noon
Hot Springs Farmers Market – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: 1212 Orange St. (Hot Springs)
When: 7 a.m. to noon June 13
Fayetteville Farmers Market – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: Downtown Square (Fayetteville)
When: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Little Rock Farmers Market – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: 400 President Clinton Ave. (Little Rock)
When: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Bentonville Farmers Market – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: Downtown Square (Bentonville)
When: 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Springdale Farmers Market – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: The Jones Center (Springdale)
When: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Cabot Farmers Market – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: 101 N. Second St. (Cabot)
When: 8 a.m. to noon
Conway Farmers Market – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: Antioch Baptist Church (Conway)
When: 8 a.m. to noon
Dardanelle Farmers Market – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: 501 N. Front St. (Dardanelle)
When: 8 a.m. to noon
Downtown Conway Farmers and Crafts Market – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: 718 Parkway St. (Conway)
When: 8 a.m. to noon
Hillcrest Farmers Market – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: 2200 Kavanaugh Blvd. (Little Rock)
When: 8 a.m. to noon
Main Street Searcy Farmers Market – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: White County Courthouse Square (Searcy)
When: 8 a.m. to noon
Paragould Farmers Market – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: 201 E. Court St. (Paragould)
When: 8 a.m. to noon
Siloam Springs Farmers Market – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: 311 S. Mount Olive St. (Siloam Springs)
When: 8 a.m. to noon
West Little Rock Farmers Market – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: Breckenridge Village (Little Rock)
When: 8 a.m. to noon
Benton Farmers Market – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: 125 Ashley St. (Benton)
When: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Madison County Farmers Market – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: 103 Church Ave. (Huntsville)
When: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Judd Hill Farmers Market – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: 3350 Aggie Drive (Jonesboro)
When: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Rogers Farmers Market – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: 4211 S. Champions Drive (Rogers)
When: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Dunbar Garden Market – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: 1720 S. Chester St. (Little Rock)
When: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Ferndale Farmers Market – Saturday, Aug. 29
Where: 27021 Kanis Road (Little Rock)
When: 9 a.m. to noon
Saturday, Aug. 29 – Sunday, Aug. 30
Fort Smith Convention Center Card Show – Saturday, Aug. 29 – Sunday, Aug. 30
Where: Fort Smith Convention Center
Where: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Whether you collect sports cards, Pokémon, trading cards, memorabilia, or you’re just looking for that next great find, you won’t want to miss two days packed with 180+ tables of collectibles. Buy, sell, trade, browse and connect with fellow collectors from across the region. You never know what you might find!
Dawg Daze – Saturday, Aug. 29 – Sunday, Aug. 30
Where: Ben Geren Regional Park (Fort Smith)
When: Times vary by tournament
River Valley FC is excited to welcome teams from across the region to Dawg Daze 2026, an ASA-sanctioned tournament! Whether you’re preparing for league play, looking for quality competition, or just ready for a great soccer weekend, Dawg Daze is the perfect way to kick off your season.
National Championship Chuckwagon Race – Saturday, Aug. 29 – Sunday, Aug. 30 (runs through Sept. 6)
Where: Bar of Ranch (Clinton)
When: Gates open at 8 a.m. on Saturday, activities begin at 9 a.m. on Sunday
Each year, an estimated 20,000 people are on hand to watch the excitement of chuckwagon racing, bronc fanning and the Snowy River Race. In addition to the four performances, bands perform after the races and dances are held each weekend. Vendors of western collectibles, crafts, art, saddles and tack are set up throughout the week at the Western Trade Show.
Arkansas Renaissance Fair – Saturday, Aug. 29 – Sunday, Aug. 30 (runs through Oct. 4)
Where: Dragonstone Springs (Mount Vernon)
When: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
This weekend’s theme is “Awaken the Magic.” This High Fantasy weekend invites guests into a magical realm where medieval life blends with mythical creatures and enchanted quests. Explore a village ruled by a noble queen, witness epic battles and encounter faeries, trolls and legendary beings—all while enjoying magical feasts and immersive entertainment.
Sunday, Aug. 30
Summer Sizzler – Sunday, Aug. 30
Where: Burns Park Soccer Complex (North Little Rock)
When: 7 a.m.
Beat the heat and earn a treat! 5k/10k/15k registration includes a custom bib, a designer shirt and a custom finisher medal! One-mile registration is untimed and includes a custom bib, a designer shirt and a custom finisher medal! The kids’ dash is a fun, untimed dash for kiddos ages 10 and under. Registration includes a mini bib, youth-sized shirt and a specifically crafted medal for the kids’ dash event.
Inaugural Pickle Party – Sunday, Aug. 30
Where: Brunwick Public House (Fort Smith)
When: 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Do you make a pickle that deserves legendary status? Or do you just enjoy eating questionable amounts of pickled things? Either way, this event is for you. The two competition categories are Classic Dill (No gimmicks. No bells and whistles. Just your best dill pickle. Let the cucumber do the talking.) and Wildcard Veggie (Anything vegetal goes! Pickled carrots? Green beans? Okra? Onions? Sweet, spicy, sour, fermented or something completely off the wall. If it can be pickled, bring it!). Entering the competition is free; tasting and judging passes are $10. Every dollar goes toward prizes for the winners and a donation to Squirrel Chase Dog Park. Winners will also become part of Brunwick Public House history, with their names permanently added to the BPH Hall of Flavor, joining the reigning Chili Cook-Off Champion and every future food competition series winner!
LRKA Open Practice – Sunday, Aug. 30
Where: Interstate Park, Field 6 (Little Rock)
When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
This is an open invitation to all kickballers and those who want to try kickball. Come out, knock the dust off your boots and hang out. At 2 p.m., there will be a “Golden Boot Contest” to see who can kick the farthest.
Family Fun Day – Sunday, Aug. 30
Where: Mt. Hebron Park (Rogers)
When: 1 p.m.
Bring the whole family for an afternoon packed with fun, laughter and community at one of the largest inclusive parks in Arkansas. Best of all — admission is FREE! Expect interactive activities, food trucks, music and entertainment, face painting and more. Plus, the first 300 kids get a free Family Fun Day shirt!
Cuisine & Cocktails: An Exclusive Culinary Affair – Sunday, Aug. 30
Where: Exact location will be emailed following purchase of ticket (Little Rock)
When: 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Hosted by Brandon Brimley with Brimley Hospitality Group, this event is a curated evening featuring a four-course meal, paired cocktails, live music and an atmosphere designed for connection. Expect exclusive, intimate and mature vibes.
RECURRING EVENTS
- The Bugtopia! Wonder Magnified! experience will be held at the Little Rock Zoo through Sept. 20, 2026.
- “Painting the Arkansas Parks” will be on display at the Mississippi River State Park Visitor Center Exhibit Hall in Marianna through Sept. 20, 2026.
- The Arkansas Renaissance Fair at Dragonstone Springs in Mount Vernon will run every weekend through Oct. 4, 2026.
- The Scavenger Hunt: Big Fun in Little Rock is currently ongoing throughout Oct. 20, 2026!
- “Where the Wind Lives” will be on display at Garvan Woodland Gardens through Oct. 31, 2026.
- Join The Rail Yard every Thursday evening for SINGO.
- Join Oaklawn Casino Racing Resort every Thursday from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. for Hot Springs Village Day.
- Head out to Mainline Sports Bar at Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort every Thursday for Thursday night trivia hosted by Roger Scott.
LOOKING FOR MORE THINGS TO DO IN ARKANSAS? CHECK OUT THIS LIST!
Photo Credit: Queen Wilhelmina Rod Run/Facebook
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