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 Chuckwagon races to Labor Day events and more. Don’t miss Heather Baker on 103.7 The Buzz’s Morning Mayhem Fridays for the latest event scoop.
Thursday, Sept. 3
Dream Night at the Zoo – Thursday, Sept. 3
Where: Little Rock Zoo
When: 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
The Little Rock Zoo is proud to partner with Arkansas Children’s Hospital to host “Dream Night,” a special evening created exclusively for families of children with special needs or chronic health conditions, providing an opportunity to enjoy the Zoo in a welcoming, supportive and inclusive environment, free of charge.
Fayetteville Farmers Market – Thursday, Sept. 3
Where: Downtown Square (Fayetteville)
When: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Springdale Farmers Market – Thursday, Sept. 3
Where: The Jones Center (Springdale)
When: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Eureka Springs Farmers Market – Thursday, Sept. 3
Where: Eureka Springs Community Center Lawn (Eureka Springs)
When: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
READ ALSO: THINGS TO DO IN ARKANSAS
Thursday, Sept. 3 – Saturday, Sept. 5
Comedian Trixx – Thursday, Sept. 3 – Saturday, Sept. 5
Where: The Loony Bin (Little Rock)
When: Showtimes vary
Taboo-shattering, searingly honest and painfully funny, Frankie “TRIXX” Agyemang is one of North America’s rising comedic stars. Trixx has developed a cult following with his no-holds-barred, take-no-prisoners brand of comedy. Mixing boisterous commentary on topics like pop culture, relationships, music, clubbing, and sex with acute insights into being Black in North America, Trixx’s streetwise, boundary-pushing humor is unafraid to take on everyone and everything in his sights.
Thursday, Sept. 3 – Sunday, Sept. 6
VW Pop-Up Art Show & Sale – Thursday, Sept. 3 – Sunday, Sept. 6
Where: Museum of Eureka Springs Art
When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Thursday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday
In honor of last weekend’s VW Festival, the museum is hosting a special pop-up art show and sale featuring Jack Miller’s art. Miller was an artist and printmaker who first became known for his drawings of the French Quarter in New Orleans. After he and his wife, Sabina Miller, moved to Eureka Springs, he brought his love of Mardi Gras with him and became well known for his colorful Volkswagen Beetle paintings.
National Championship Chuckwagon Race – Thursday, Sept. 3 – Sunday, Sept. 6 (last chance)
Where: Bar of Ranch, Three Star Dance Hall, and Western Store (Clinton)
When: Festivities begin at 11 Thursday through Saturday, and 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 those 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.
Bugtopia! Wonder Magnified! – Thursday, Sept. 3 – Sunday, Sept. 6 (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, Sept. 3 – Sunday, Sept. 6 (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, Sept. 3 – Sunday, Sept. 6 (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, Sept. 3 – Sunday, Sept. 6 (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, Sept. 4
Recovery in Color: September Art Walk – Friday, Sept. 4
Where: Downtown Conway
When: 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
This month, we’re celebrating the many colors and forms of recovery, healing, resilience, renewal and the strength it takes to move forward. Through art, creativity and community connection, we’ll explore the ways people find hope, expression and restoration. Come downtown to experience local artists, creative activities, pop-ups, performances and more throughout the Art Walk district.
First Friday – Friday, Sept. 4
Where: Bentonville Square
When: 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Downtown Bentonville Inc. invites you to First Friday, a FREE community block party with music, vendors and lots of family-friendly fun. The 2026 First Friday season is presented by Walmart!
SoMa After Dark – Friday, Sept. 4
Where: S Main St (Little Rock)
When: 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.
SoMa After Dark is one of Little Rock’s most popular recurring events, transforming South Main Street into a lively, walkable destination filled with local shopping, live entertainment, food, art and family-friendly experiences. Whether you’re searching for unique gifts, handmade goods, boutique clothing or locally owned stores in Little Rock, SoMa After Dark offers an authentic and vibrant shopping experience you won’t find anywhere else.
Friday, Sept. 4 – Saturday, Sept. 5
Caddo River Festival 2026 – Friday, Sept. 4 – Saturday, Sept. 5
Where: 200 E Broadway (Glenwood)
When: Festivities begin at 11 a.m. on Friday and 7 a.m. on Saturday
Get ready for a fun weekend filled with shopping vendors, food trucks and a variety of events, such as a car show, live music, kids’ activities, a 5k race, a fun run, the Crystal Bridges Mobile Art Lab and more.
Friday, Sept. 4 – Sunday, Sept. 6
Arkansas State Championship Horse Show – Friday, Sept. 4 – Sunday, Sept. 6
Where: Barton Coliseum at Arkansas State Fairgrounds (Little Rock)
When: Begins at 8 a.m. each day
With a rich history, the Arkansas State Championship Horse Show draws in a staggering average of 1,500 entries every Labor Day Weekend. The “State Show” is the culmination of a summer of “Saturday Night Shows” put on by 13 local associations across the state. Each association showcases over 40 equine events, including western, English, timed speed and gaited, with the Top 5 competitors in their respective classes qualifying for the State Show.
Dancing with the Stars Extravaganza – Friday, Sept. 4 – Sunday, Sept. 6
Where: Holiday Inn Presidential (Little Rock)
When: 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. on Friday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 1 a.m. on Saturday, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Sunday
Get ready for an exciting weekend filled with line dance workshops led by experienced out-of-town instructors. Enjoy a banquet, exercise sessions, fun activities and fellowship. The Sandra Memorial Scholarship recipient will also be announced.
Saturday, Sept. 5
Trailgating – Saturday, Sept. 5
Where: 251 N West Ave (Fayetteville)
When: 11:15 a.m.
Introducing Fayetteville Trailgating, a whole new game plan for Razorback football fans on foot this fall. This gameday experience turns the under one-mile walk from Downtown and Dickson Street to Razorback Stadium into the easiest play you’ll run all day. The main event kicks off 2 hours before game time when the Trailgating Fan Parade steps off from the Upper Ramble. Want to head out earlier? The route is fully marked 4 hours before kickoff, so you can walk at your own pace.
Arkansas Razorbacks vs. North Alabama Lions (football) – Saturday, Sept. 5
Where: Razorback Stadium (Fayetteville)
When: 3:15 p.m.
The Arkansas Razorbacks will open the 20th season against the North Alabama Lions! This marks the first home game under new head coach Ryan Silverfield. At halftime, don’t miss the inaugural Corgi Race and a band sing-a-long show!
FestiVille 2026 – Saturday, Sept. 5
Where: Downtown Jacksonville
When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
This free, family-friendly event offers a full day of entertainment, food and activities for all ages. Guests can enjoy live music throughout the day, including a performance by Ryan Daniel, along with a variety of food trucks, local vendors, carnival rides, bingo, a petting zoo, face painting and a fun-filled water zone.
Big Dam Labor Day Event – Saturday, Sept. 5
Where: Big Dam Waterpark (Texarkana)
When: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Get ready for exciting games, a fun craft, glitter tattoos, upbeat music from a DJ and giveaways all day long! Grab the family and celebrate the long weekend at Big Dam Waterpark!
Baconfest – Saturday, Sept. 5
Where: 4211 S Champions Dr (Rogers)
When: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Competitors will be cooking up bacon in different ways, and YOU get to taste-test the creations, vote for your favorite and help crown this year’s Baconfest Champion! Baconfest is FREE to eat at while supplies last! Donations are never required but are greatly appreciated and help organizers continue putting on fun community events like this.
Johathan P. Hicks Memorial Scholarship Car Show – Saturday, Sept. 5
Where: Strong City Park (Strong)
When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
This scholarship was established in memory of Johathan P. Hicks (“John-John”), whose life was tragically cut short in a car accident during his senior year of high school in 1999. In honor of his memory, his parents, Johnny and Lawanda Hicks, along with Rev. Ruben Sims, founded the scholarship program to help local students pursue their educational goals. Your $25 registration fee goes directly toward the scholarship. If you don’t have a car, just check out the cars on display!! Maybe even give a donation to the cause! Make new friends or bring your old friends out and have a good time with good people and vibes.
International Vulture Awareness Day – Saturday, Sept. 5
Where: Little Rock Zoo
When: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Vultures are often misunderstood, but these incredible birds play a crucial role in the ecosystem by cleaning up carcasses and helping prevent the spread of disease. In Arkansas, we are home to both the Turkey Vulture and the Black Vulture, two species that help maintain the balance of nature. Visit the Zoo to learn more!
Car Show and Fire Truck Pull – Saturday, Sept. 5
Where: Parrot Island Water Park (Fort Smith)
When: 7 a.m. to 12 p.m.
The Law Enforcement Torch Run will be hosting its annual Car Show and Fire Truck Pull benefiting Special Olympics Arkansas. Car enthusiasts, strong teams and the community will all help raise funds to support an incredible cause!
Bike Fest – Saturday, Sept. 5
Where: Rock City Harley Davidson (Little Rock)
When: 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
The Heavenly Riders welcome all M/C’s, S/C’s, M/M’s, Motorcycle Enthusiasts and C/C’s (Car Clubs) to come out and be a part of the 4th Annual Bike Fest held at Rock City Harley Davidson! Come out for some good food, music, fun, prizes and more!
Print Fair & Share – Saturday, Sept. 5
Where: the Momentary’s Fermentation Hall (Bentonville)
When: 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Celebrate all things print at the Momentary with a fair featuring vendors showcasing talented local print artists. Explore original art prints, paper goods and print-inspired gifts, plus an Inciardi trading area, inclusive Inciardi merchandise and more surprises!
Hispanic Heritage Festival 2026 – Saturday, Sept. 5
Where: Laurel Park (Conway)
When: 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Paloma Community Services is excited to bring the community together for a special celebration of Hispanic culture, traditions and heritage. Bring your family and friends and enjoy an afternoon filled with food, vendors, live music, art, kids’ activities and folkloric dance.
Magic in Every Stitch: A Cultural Embroidery Social – Saturday, Sept. 5
Where: Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art (Bentonville)
When: 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Join local textile artist Beatriz Segura for an embroidery social where creativity, community and wellness come together. All skill levels are welcome to gather, connect and explore embroidery in a relaxed environment. All materials are provided. Just bring your creativity and get ready to unwind.
Lake Model Vintage Car Show & Shine – Saturday, Sept. 5
Where: West Side School (Greers Ferry)
When: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Hosted by the Greers Ferry Chamber of Commerce, attendees can expect plenty of classic cars, trucks and antique vehicles. You can also wear or bring your vintage automobile, car club or racing t-shirt or jacket for a chance to win a trophy. Local EMS will be grilling burgers and hot dogs for purchase.
“ROBBIE!” – Saturday, Sept. 5 (also on Sept. 12)
Where: The Melonlight Theater (Eureka Springs)
When: 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Set in the 1960’s in Italy, the suave and handsome conman, Jacopo, compiles a team of status-hungry criminals of varying stages of skill and experience, each bringing their own unique assets and motives to the heist at hand. Immersed in a world of sultry jazz, elegant dancing, the romance of an earlier time and espresso so strong you’ll beg for a vintage cocktail to calm you down, this suspenseful, sexy and unexpectedly comedic show will have you taking notes about who-done-what right alongside the seasoned, yet completely stumped Detective. See if you can outsmart the wise and sexy conman, and solve the crime before its surprising completion in Act Two.
Saracen Landing Farmers Market – Saturday, Sept. 5
Where: 200 Lake Saracen Drive (Pine Bluff)
When: 6 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Fort Smith Farmers Market on Garrison Avenue – Saturday, Sept. 5
Where: Second Street and Garrison Avenue (Fort Smith)
When: 7 a.m. to noon
Hot Springs Farmers Market – Saturday, Sept. 5
Where: 1212 Orange St. (Hot Springs)
When: 7 a.m. to noon June 13
Fayetteville Farmers Market – Saturday, Sept. 5
Where: Downtown Square (Fayetteville)
When: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Little Rock Farmers Market – Saturday, Sept. 5
Where: 400 President Clinton Ave. (Little Rock)
When: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Bentonville Farmers Market – Saturday, Sept. 5
Where: Downtown Square (Bentonville)
When: 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Springdale Farmers Market – Saturday, Sept. 5
Where: The Jones Center (Springdale)
When: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Cabot Farmers Market – Saturday, Sept. 5
Where: 101 N. Second St. (Cabot)
When: 8 a.m. to noon
Conway Farmers Market – Saturday, Sept. 5
Where: Antioch Baptist Church (Conway)
When: 8 a.m. to noon
Dardanelle Farmers Market – Saturday, Sept. 5
Where: 501 N. Front St. (Dardanelle)
When: 8 a.m. to noon
Downtown Conway Farmers and Crafts Market – Saturday, Sept. 5
Where: 718 Parkway St. (Conway)
When: 8 a.m. to noon
Hillcrest Farmers Market – Saturday, Sept. 5
Where: 2200 Kavanaugh Blvd. (Little Rock)
When: 8 a.m. to noon
Main Street Searcy Farmers Market – Saturday, Sept. 5
Where: White County Courthouse Square (Searcy)
When: 8 a.m. to noon
Paragould Farmers Market – Saturday, Sept. 5
Where: 201 E. Court St. (Paragould)
When: 8 a.m. to noon
Siloam Springs Farmers Market – Saturday, Sept. 5
Where: 311 S. Mount Olive St. (Siloam Springs)
When: 8 a.m. to noon
West Little Rock Farmers Market – Saturday, Sept. 5
Where: Breckenridge Village (Little Rock)
When: 8 a.m. to noon
Benton Farmers Market – Saturday, Sept. 5
Where: 125 Ashley St. (Benton)
When: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Madison County Farmers Market – Saturday, Sept. 5
Where: 103 Church Ave. (Huntsville)
When: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Judd Hill Farmers Market – Saturday, Sept. 5
Where: 3350 Aggie Drive (Jonesboro)
When: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Rogers Farmers Market – Saturday, Sept. 5
Where: 4211 S. Champions Drive (Rogers)
When: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Dunbar Garden Market – Saturday, Sept. 5
Where: 1720 S. Chester St. (Little Rock)
When: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Ferndale Farmers Market – Saturday, Sept. 5
Where: 27021 Kanis Road (Little Rock)
When: 9 a.m. to noon
Saturday, Sept. 5 – Sunday, Sept. 6
Clothesline Fair 2026 – Saturday, Sept. 5 – Sunday, Sept. 6
Where: Locations vary in Prairie Grove
When: Fairgrounds open at 8 a.m. both days
Get ready for craft booths, great food, live music and square dancing! Bring your family, friends and your best weekend vibes. While you’re there, don’t miss the chance to explore the amazing shops in PG and visit Historic Main Street Prairie Grove, where you can find antique treasures, unique items, delicious food and delightful boutiques.
Arkansas Renaissance Fair – Saturday, Sept. 5 – Sunday, Sept. 6 (runs through Oct. 4)
Where: Dragonstone Springs (Mount Vernon)
When: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
This weekend’s theme is “Pirate Weekend.” The high seas are filled with adventure here at the Arkansas Renaissance Festival’s Pirate Weekend. The Scurvy Crew of the Rusalka promises swashbuckling action, games of cunning, and sea shanties galore. Weigh anchor and set sail for magic!
Sunday, Sept. 6
NavDash: Blacktop Bandits – Sunday, Sept. 6
Where: 4204 S Pinnacle Hills Pkwy (Rogers)
When: 11 a.m.
Think of it as a mix of a Sunday cruise and a logistical strategy game where you decide your route in real time to score the most points. Locations are spread evenly in a 30-mile radius. You must navigate to the checkpoints (map provided in the WayHopper app), plan efficient routes, and work your way up the leaderboard.
Tour de Salvation – Sunday, Sept. 6
Where: Hot Springs Farmers Market
When: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Benefiting the Salvation Army’s Pathway of Hope, this ride allows you to see the historic city on your road bike, as well as the mountains on your MTB! After you’ve worked up a good appetite, enjoy live music, hot dogs and hamburgers provided by the Salvation Army Canteen at the After Party!
Blacktop Sunday – Sunday, Sept. 6
Where: 4204 S Pinnacle Hills Pkwy (Rogers)
When: 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Whether it’s the roar of a supercar, the grit of a rock climber or the timeless lines of a classic, you’ll find it here. This event features everything from supercars, exotics, metric motors, motorcycles, drifters, drag racers and rugged overlanders.
Ozark Oktoberfest – Sunday, Sept. 6
Where: Ozark Beer Company (Rogers)
When: 11 a.m.
It’s time to don your lederhosen and dirndl and get ready for the annual Oktoberfest celebrations! The day will be filled with pretzels, brats, a stein-holding competition, live music, a local makers market, Dachshund races and more fun for the whole family!
Comedian Rocky Dale Davis – Sunday, Sept. 6
Where: The Loony Bin (Little Rock)
When: 7 p.m.
Rocky Dale Davis is a stand-up comedian whose videos on TikTok and Instagram have over 200 million views and 600,000 followers. Rocky has also appeared on “Dating No Filter “on E! and NBC’s “Bring The Funny.”
St. Augustine Church Kermésse 2026 – Sunday, Sept. 6
Where: St. Augustine Church (Dardanelle)
When: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
This annual fundraiser will be held on the grounds of St. Augustine Church and will include authentic Hispanic food, games, dances and a soccer tournament. Kermés or Kermesse is a Hispanic open-air festival.
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.
Feature Photo: Chuckwagon Races | Credit: iStock
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