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 the latest local theater performances to squad games with Dude Perfect and more. Don’t miss Heather Baker on 103.7 The Buzz’s Morning Mayhem Fridays for the latest event scoop.

 

Thursday, July 9

 

Fayetteville Farmers Market – Thursday, July 9

Where: Downtown Square (Fayetteville)

When: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.

 

Springdale Farmers Market – Thursday, July 9

Where: The Jones Center (Springdale)

When: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.

 

Eureka Springs Farmers Market – Thursday, July 9

Where: Eureka Springs Community Center Lawn (Eureka Springs)

When: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

 

Thursday, July 9 – Friday, July 10

 

“Creative Convergence: A Collection of His Versatile Art” – Thursday, July 9 – Friday, July 10 (runs through July 24)

Where: Faulkner Performing Arts Center (Fayetteville)

When: Times vary

This is Arkansas artist Marvin Lindley’s first solo art exhibition, featuring about 50 original artworks. Art by Marvin highlights his renowned pen-and-ink wildlife drawings and natural landscapes.

 

Thursday, July 9 – Saturday, July 11

 

“Wet, Hot, American Bummer!” – Thursday, July 9 – Saturday, July 11

Where: The Weekend Theater (Little Rock)

When: 8 p.m.

Red Octopus returns to The Weekend Theater with their summer sketch show “Wet, Hot, American Bummer!” Expect jokes, satire, everything good and funny. Written and performed by real people, no AI needed!

 

World Series of Comedy – Thursday, July 9 – Saturday, July 11

Where: The Loony Bin (Little Rock)

When: Times vary

The World Series of Comedy (WSOC) is North America’s largest touring comedy festival — a year-long stand-up comedy competition and industry event that connects hundreds of comedians with comedy clubs and bookers across the U.S. and Canada. Now celebrating its 17th year, the WSOC features over 500 registered comedians each season who compete in a series of live “Satellite” events held at professional comedy clubs nationwide from February through July. The season culminates in The Main Event in Las Vegas every September, where the Top 101 comics perform for a week of shows, seminars, networking and industry showcases that help comedians advance their careers.

 

Thursday, July 9 – Sunday, July 12

 

“Moulin Rouge! The Musical” – Thursday, July 9 – Sunday, July 12

Where: Baum Walker Hall at Walton Arts Center (Fayetteville)

When: Showtimes vary

Enter a world of splendor and romance, of eye-popping excess, of glitz, grandeur and glory! A world where bohemians and aristocrats rub elbows and revel in electrifying enchantment. Welcome to “Moulin Rouge! The Musical!” Baz Luhrmann’s revolutionary film comes to life onstage, remixed in a new musical mash-up extravaganza.

 

65th Young Arkansas Artists – Thursday, July 9 – Sunday, July 12 (runs through July 26)

Where: Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts’ Robyn and John Horn Gallery (Little Rock)

When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday

This milestone recognizes generations of young artists whose work reveals the exploration and determination that begin in the classroom and extend far beyond it. The exhibition also highlights Arkansas art educators, who play a central role in this legacy. Their guidance shapes students’ skills, nurtures creativity and inspires young artists to pursue their ideas with confidence. Together, the artworks selected each year demonstrate the breadth of artistic expression found throughout Arkansas and the innovative, thoughtful approaches students bring to every medium.

 

“America 250: Common Threads” – Thursday, July 9 – Sunday, July 12 (runs through July 27)

Where: Crystal Bridges Temporary Exhibition Gallery (Bentonville)

When: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday

In 2026, the United States will mark 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. “America 250: Common Threads” will both commemorate the events of 1776 and reflect on 250 years of American art and civic participation. An early engraving of the Declaration of Independence will anchor a group of historic documents displayed alongside textiles, paintings, toys, and other works from 1776 to the present. The exhibition considers how artists and national leaders document American history. “America 250: Common Threads” explores how American artists historically foster civic participation and strengthen community relationships.

 

“Footloose: The Musical” – Thursday, July 9 – Sunday, July 12 (runs through Aug. 15)

Where: Murry’s Dinner Playhouse (Little Rock)

When: Dinner at 6 p.m. with curtain at 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, dinners at 11 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. with curtains at 12:45 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. on Sunday

Get ready to kick off your Sunday shoes! One of the most explosive musicals in recent memory now bursts onto Murry’s stage – live! “Footloose,” with music, romance and dance, celebrates the wisdom of listening to the young, while guiding them with a warm heart and an open mind.

 

Bugtopia! Wonder Magnified!  – Thursday, July 9 – Sunday, July 12 (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.

 

Scavenger Hunt: Big Fun in Little Rock – Thursday, July 9 – Sunday, July 12 (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, July 9 – Sunday, July 12 (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, July 10

 

“10 Things I Hate About You” With Screenwriter Kirsten “Kiwi” Smith – Friday, July 10

Where: AMFA Performing Arts Center (Little Rock)

When: 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Based on William Shakespeare’s “The Taming of the Shrew,” ”10 Things I Hate About You” transforms a classic comedy into a modern high school story about independence, identity and unexpected love. Following the screening, enjoy a live Q&A with screenwriter Kirsten “Kiwi” Smith, whose many credits include ”Legally Blonde,” “Ella Enchanted” and “She’s the Man.” Smith will share insights into adapting Shakespeare for contemporary audiences and how these centuries-old characters are still relevant today.

 

Red, White & Boots – Friday, July 10

Where: CrossFit Conway

Where: 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Grab your boots, bring your friends and prepare for a night of country music, line dancing and all-American fun! Wear your red, white and blue!

 

5th Ever Hop-Off – Friday, July 10

Where: Historic Arkansas Museum (Little Rock)

When: 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

For those who like a little history with their hops, this is the event for you! The 5th Ever Hop-off, a friendly competition for the best historic homebrew in town, uses historical prompts and recipes as inspiration for home brewers who offer up their creations for a chance to claim victory and, with it, bragging rights! Visitors will be able to sample the beers and vote on the People’s Choice Award while a panel of beer enthusiasts chooses the winner of the Taster’s Choice Award.

 

Rogers History Hunt – Friday, July 10

Where: Rogers Historical Museum

When: 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.

The City of Rogers is celebrating the nation’s 250th birthday with a multi-location history scavenger hunt that takes players to fun and interesting locations in pursuit of exciting prizes and a chance to win the grand prize of $250!

 

Dungeons & Dragons Live – Friday, July 10

Where: Birdie’s Cabaret Theater & Lounge (North Little Rock)

When: 7 p.m.

Every show is a wild, unpredictable adventure where the audience plays a role, the dice decide fate, and the heroes are… well… trying their best. Whether you’ve never heard of a beholder or you’ve been rolling since level one, this show is built for everyone.

 

Community Cookout – Friday, July 10

Where: Faulkner County Library (Conway)

When: 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

You will be able to celebrate summer with an old-fashioned cookout, enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, and participate in a hula-hoop workshop with Katie Sunshine. Be sure to enjoy FREE Kona Ice! This event is intended for all ages.

 

Friday, July 10 – Sunday, July 12

 

Antique Alley Arkansas Antique Show – Friday, July 10 – Sunday, July 12

Where: Conway Expo and Event Center

When: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday

Exhibitors from 10+ states will fill 200+ booths with old advertising, antique toys, linens, primitives, glassware, antique furniture and much more! Admission on Friday and Saturday is $10 per adult and free for children 18 and under. Sunday’s adult admission is $5 and free for children. Admission is good all weekend! Parking is free! There will be 4+ food trucks available, so come hungry!

 

The American Hot Tub Expo – Friday, July 10 – Sunday, July 12

Where: Outlets of Little Rock

When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday

There will be over 50 hot tubs and swim spas on display from six major brands, and everything must go! This exclusive event offers unbeatable deals and limited-time offers you won’t want to miss. Check out the show and explore incredible deals in a hassle-free shopping experience!

 

Summer Matsuri Festival – Friday, July 10 – Sunday, July 12

Where: Otaku Takeout (Little Rock)

When: 7 p.m. on Friday, 12 p.m. on Saturday, 4 p.m. on Sunday

On Friday, show off your craftsmanship, creativity and cosplay skills at the Summer Fest Cosplay Contest! Prizes will be awarded in every category. On Saturday, get ready for an afternoon of classic festival fun during Summer Fest Games at The Dojo! Test your skills, challenge your friends and see if you can win your way to some awesome prizes. On Sunday, experience Feast & Film: Howl’s Moving Castle, where the movie comes to life with a themed meal served at the perfect moment!

 

“Painting the Arkansas Parks” (Opening Weekend) – Friday, July 10 – Sunday, July 12 (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.

 

Saturday, July 11

 

Drum Corps International Summer Tour – Saturday, July 11

Where: War Memorial Stadium (Little Rock)

When: 8 p.m.

Drum Corps International (DCI), established in 1971, is the premier governing body for junior drum and bugle corps in North America. Known as “marching music’s major league,” it manages a demanding summer tour and championship circuit for elite youth musicians and performers up to age 22.

 

Tesla Fest – Saturday, July 11

Where: Mid-America Science Museum (Hot Springs)

When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

This annual event honors the life and scientific legacy of Nikola Tesla. Held each year on the Saturday closest to Tesla’s July 10 birthday, this year’s celebration marks the inventor’s 170th birthday. Known for developing alternating current electrical systems and the Tesla coil, Tesla’s groundbreaking work continues to shape modern technology. Throughout the day, visitors can explore hands-on activities and live demonstrations inspired by his inventions.

 

Foam & Chrome Car Event – Saturday, July 11

Where: Legacy Autoworld (Rogers)

When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

This is a great opportunity to see custom builds, enjoy live demos and spend the day with fellow enthusiasts. Whether you drive a daily truck, a show vehicle, or just love cars and trucks, everyone is welcome. Expect live displays, live music, food trucks, hourly giveaways and raffles, a family fun zone, live detailing training, foam cannon demonstrations, expert advice and more!

 

Royal Tea Party – Saturday, July 11

Where: First United Methodist Church (Benton)

When: 2 p.m.

Bring your favorite prince or princess and enjoy a magical afternoon of tea, cookies, sweet treats and royal snacks! Guests will have opportunities for photos, to meet fun guests and make plenty of royalty-worthy memories. Fancy clothes or costumes are encouraged to make the day even more special.

 

The Globe Theatre’s “The Taming of the Shrew” – Saturday, July 11

Where: AFMA Performing Arts Center (Little Rock)

When: 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Leap back in time to Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre with this hilarious filmed stage production of “The Taming of the Shrew.” Filmed live on the Globe stage in London, this lauded production recreates the energy, staging and audience connection of Shakespeare’s original theatre, offering a glimpse of how his plays may have looked and sounded in his own time.

 

Paradise Found 5k Trail Run – Saturday, July 11

Where: Coler Mountain Bike Preserve (Bentonville)

When: 7 a.m.

Taking place just days after the Fourth of July during America’s 250th anniversary year, Paradise Found celebrates the freedom of movement. Running these trails is a reminder that access to community spaces and the ability to move through them are something worth celebrating. Runners will experience Coler’s world-class trails on foot, weaving through forested singletrack and scenic terrain before finishing at The Homestead. Wearing red, white and blue is highly encouraged!

 

True Crime Murder Mystery Dinner Show – Saturday, July 11

Where: 600 Interstate 30 (Little Rock)

When: 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

At The Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery Dinner Show, you’ll tackle a hilarious and challenging crime while you feast on a fantastic dinner. Just beware! The culprit is hiding in plain sight somewhere in the room, and you may find yourself as a Prime Suspect before you know it!

 

Helos, Wings & Wheels – Saturday, July 11

Where: Springdale Municipal Airport

When: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

This is a unique celebration of America’s 250th Anniversary! Enjoy an exciting day of classic cars, aircraft displays, family fun and community fellowship while helping support the next generation of skilled trades professionals. All proceeds from the car show benefit the Cruising the Ozarks Show•Drive•Give Vocational Scholarship Program, which provides financial assistance to students pursuing careers in vocational and technical fields.

 

Arkansas’ Regency Ball: A Bridgerton Affair – Saturday, July 11

Where: Arkansas Capitol (Little Rock)

When: 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Step into elegance, refinement and timeless charm as Arkansas’ Regency Ball makes its grand debut. Inspired by the glamour of the Regency era, this Bridgerton-style affair brings history, sophistication and purpose together for an unforgettable afternoon. This exclusive event benefits FACS Worldwide, supporting its mission to serve communities through philanthropy, empowerment and outreach.

 

Living Craft Workshop: Hand-stamped Mantra Cuffs – Saturday, July 11

Where: Historic Arkansas Museum (Little Rock)

When: 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Learn the basics of metal stamping and make your own custom cuff bracelet to take home at this fun, beginner-friendly workshop led by jewelry maker Stacey Bowers. All supplies will be provided, including inspiration for your mantra, but you are encouraged to dream up your own!

 

Ozarks 250 Block Party – Saturday, July 11

Where: Shiloh Museum of Ozark History (Springdale)

When: 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.

The entire Shiloh Museum campus is transforming into a massive, free community festival honoring the region’s rich, diverse tapestry. A brand-new exhibit, “Our Changing Landscape,” which offers a unique Ozarks take on America’s 250th birthday, will also make its debut. At this free admission event, attendees can expect a great lineup of live music, dance performances, presentations, food, activities, heritage demos and rides, community displays and more!

 

Saracen Landing Farmers Market – Saturday, July 11

Where: 200 Lake Saracen Drive (Pine Bluff)

When: 6 a.m. to 1 p.m.

 

Fort Smith Farmers Market on Garrison Avenue – Saturday, July 11

Where: Second Street and Garrison Avenue (Fort Smith)

When: 7 a.m. to noon

 

Hot Springs Farmers Market – Saturday, July 11

Where: 1212 Orange St. (Hot Springs)

When: 7 a.m. to noon June 13

 

Fayetteville Farmers Market – Saturday, July 11

Where: Downtown Square (Fayetteville)

When: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.

 

Little Rock Farmers Market – Saturday, July 11

Where: 400 President Clinton Ave. (Little Rock)

When: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.

 

Bentonville Farmers Market – Saturday, July 11

Where: Downtown Square (Bentonville)

When: 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

 

Springdale Farmers Market – Saturday, July 11

Where: The Jones Center (Springdale)

When: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.

 

Cabot Farmers Market – Saturday, July 11

Where: 101 N. Second St. (Cabot)

When: 8 a.m. to noon

 

Conway Farmers Market – Saturday, July 11

Where: Antioch Baptist Church (Conway)

When: 8 a.m. to noon

 

Dardanelle Farmers Market  – Saturday, July 11

Where: 501 N. Front St. (Dardanelle)

When: 8 a.m. to noon

 

Downtown Conway Farmers and Crafts Market – Saturday, July 11

Where: 718 Parkway St. (Conway)

When: 8 a.m. to noon

 

Hillcrest Farmers Market – Saturday, July 11

Where: 2200 Kavanaugh Blvd. (Little Rock)

When: 8 a.m. to noon

 

Main Street Searcy Farmers Market – Saturday, July 11

Where: White County Courthouse Square (Searcy)

When: 8 a.m. to noon

 

Paragould Farmers Market – Saturday, July 11

Where: 201 E. Court St. (Paragould)

When: 8 a.m. to noon

 

Siloam Springs Farmers Market – Saturday, July 11

Where: 311 S. Mount Olive St. (Siloam Springs)

When: 8 a.m. to noon

 

West Little Rock Farmers Market – Saturday, July 11

Where: Breckenridge Village (Little Rock)

When: 8 a.m. to noon

 

Benton Farmers Market – Saturday, July 11

Where: 125 Ashley St. (Benton)

When: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

 

Madison County Farmers Market – Saturday, July 11

Where: 103 Church Ave. (Huntsville)

When: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

 

Judd Hill Farmers Market – Saturday, July 11

Where: 3350 Aggie Drive (Jonesboro)

When: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

 

Rogers Farmers Market – Saturday, July 11

Where: 4211 S. Champions Drive (Rogers)

When: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

 

Dunbar Garden Market  – Saturday, July 11

Where: 1720 S. Chester St. (Little Rock)

When: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

 

Ferndale Farmers Market – Saturday, July 11

Where: 27021 Kanis Road (Little Rock)

When: 9 a.m. to noon

 

Saturday, July 11 – Sunday, July 12

 

FCS Card Show – Saturday, July 11 – Sunday, July 12

Where: Fort Smith Convention Center

When: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Expect over 150 8ft vendor tables of sports, Pokémon and other TCG cards. Bring your own cards to sell! Admission is $5. Kids 12 and under get in for free!

 

“The Cake” (Opening Weekend) – Saturday, July 11 – Sunday, July 12 (runs through July 26)

Where: Argenta Contemporary Theatre (North Little Rock)

When: 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday, 2 p.m. on Sunday

In Bekah Brunstetter’s (writer and producer of NBC’s “This Is Us”) laugh-out-loud comedy, a beloved Southern baker finds herself facing unexpected questions about love, friendship and the people who matter most. Packed with heartfelt humor, memorable characters and plenty of cake, this charming comedy celebrates the messy, beautiful work of being human.

 

Sunday, July 12

 

Dude Perfect Squad Games Tour – Sunday, July 12

Where: Simmons Bank Arena (North Little Rock)

When: 6 p.m.

By transforming the arena floor into a battle zone surrounded by fans on all sides, the Squad Games Tour delivers a fully immersive live experience that brings audiences closer to the action than ever before. Inspired by their fan-favorite Squad Games video series, this new format captures the energy of a live sporting event as the Dudes face off against some of their favorite athletes, creators and Dude Perfect staff in the high-energy games and over-the-top challenges that bring the Dude Perfect universe to life.

 

Soundbath With Embassy of Sound – Sunday, July 12

Where: Go Inside Yoga (Conway)

When: 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Daman Hoffman, certified sound therapist with Embassy of Sound, will help you find a state of deep relaxation with a guided meditation, Himalayan singing bowls, crystal singing bowls, chimes, ocean drum, planet gongs and more. As you soak in the pure harmonic tones, the gentle vibrations will carry you into a dream-like state of consciousness.

 

Dinner Date for a Plate – Sunday, July 12

Where: The Sanctuary (North Little Rock)

When: 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Get ready for an unforgettable evening benefiting Mamie’s Poppy Plates! There will be delicious food, refreshing drinks, fun garden games, live entertainment and an art auction featuring Arkansas artists.

 

The Oddity Exchange: Adult Show & Tell – Sunday, July 12

Where: Garland County Library (Hot Springs)

When: 3 p.m.

Attention all niche nerds & curious cats! At the Oddity Exchange, everyone wants to hear and learn all about your unique interests or quirky collections. Attendees will be given (up to) five minutes to tell the audience about a topic of their choice.

 

Bowling for Rhinos 2026 – Sunday, July 12

Where: Dust Bowl Lanes & Lounge (Little Rock)

When: 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Benefiting Little Rock’s American Association of Zookeepers, enjoy a fun-filled night of bowling plus games, a silent auction and a raffle! Food and beverages will be available for purchase from Dust Bowl’s full menu, plus a signature Rhino-themed cocktail! Every ticket helps protect rhinos and support conservation programs around the world. Bowl for a cause and help make a difference.

 

RECURRING EVENTS

 

Images in the featured photo are credited to Dude Perfect/Facebook.
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