Something tells us this weekend is going to be pure gold (and maybe some green, too). Let’s get into it.
Thursday, March 13
A Taste of Black Little Rock at the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center // Postponed after the ice storm, this MTCC event celebrates Black History Month by showcasing some of the best flavors from local Black-owned restaurants and chefs. Come hungry. The eats start at 5:30 p.m. Learn more here.
Bardstown Bourbon Whiskey Dinner at Petit & Keet // Let’s enter the weekend with glasses raised, shall we? The renowned Bardstown Bourbon Company will be sharing five top-notch whiskeys alongside a five-course meal at the WLR restaurant. It begins at 6:30 p.m., but seating is limited, so reserve your spot ASAP. Learn more here.
Meanwhile, a kitchen showdown is coming: The Heat is On for Donnie Ferneau
Friday, March 14
20th Annual 2nd Friday Art Night in Downtown Little Rock // It’s time for a very special 2FAN, aka the monthly roundup of downtown businesses opening their doors for an after-hours gallery walk. Highlights this milestone month include a new folk art exhibit and music at the Old State House Museum, screen-printing at the CALS Rock It! Lab, a permanent jewelry party at Bella Vita and live music, Stone’s Throw brews and a seed swap at the Historic Arkansas Museum. The fun lasts 5-8 p.m. Learn more here.
18-Year Anniversary Show at M2 Gallery // Cheers to you, M2. The SoMa art gallery is marking its 18th with one of the biggest shows of the year. Expect artist debuts, new pieces from some of your fave local talents and more. Stop in 6-9 p.m. Learn more here.
More downtown fun: Make Way for the Return of Barkus on Main
Saturday, March 15
Garden Fest at Laman Library // We may still be a week away from the official start of spring, but since Mother Nature seems ready to get the ball rolling early, so is the NLR Public Library System. Expect gardening workshops, local vendors and lots of hands-on activities for all ages. Stop by 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Learn more here.
Living Craft Saturday at Historic Arkansas Museum // Time travel, anyone? HAM’s monthly series gives guests an immersive, hands-on opportunity to learn about life in the early days of Arkansas. March’s event is all about “sowing the future” and prepping for spring. Plus, HAM is hosting a Scout Day with a chance to work toward merit badges. Stop by 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Learn more here.
“The Cat in the Hat” Opening Day at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts // Up next for the AMFA Children’s Theatre is this Dr. Seuss classic filled with adventure, fur-flying fun and a whole lot of silliness. Saturday activities include a Seuss-themed lawn party with games and bubbles to celebrate the doctor’s birthday, and don’t miss the themed menu specials at Park Grill. Catch the show at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m., and the bubble bash from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Learn more here.
Read on: A Portrait of Legacy for AMFA
St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Downtown Little Rock and Argenta // Put on your green and head downtown for this 24th annual spectacle in the streets. Hosted by the Irish Cultural Society of Arkansas, the parade begins at Sixth and Main in Argenta and wraps up at Third and Cumberland across the river. Expect leprechauns, Irish wolfhounds, bands, Irish dancers, floats and lots more (including a swarm of Mrs. Ropers). The parade kicks off at 1 p.m. Learn more here.
Third Street St. Patrick’s Day Block Party // After the parade wraps up in front of Dugan’s Pub, the street stays closed on this bit of Third so guests can load up on live music, eats, drinks and vendors, all in the name of St. Pat. The fun lasts until 10 p.m. Learn more here. Not enough luck for you? We’ll get to that in a bit.
Classic Movies at Ron Robinson Theater // The popcorn is flowing once again at the CALS theater in the River Market. Up first is “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory” at 12:30 p.m., then the next Exhibition on Screen installment “Mary Cassatt: Painting the Modern Woman” at 4 p.m., followed by “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” at 8 p.m. Learn more here.
Spring Fashion Show at Esse Museum & Store // The Arkansas Fashion School is getting a jump on the season by showcasing some of its killer handcrafted looks. The show starts at 3 p.m. Learn more here.
PSA: The Heart Ball may be sold out, but you can still give to support the American Heart Association of Central Arkansas. More on that here.
Sunday, March 16
Seven-Year Anniversary Party at Proof Bar & Lounge // Let’s close the weekend on a delicious note. This Hillcrest spot is celebrating its birthday all evening long, and you’re invited. Load up on eats from Holly Smokes (a Proof tradition), bingo and giveaways. It kicks off at 4 p.m. Learn more here.
Thursday – Sunday, March 13-16
“Back to the Future: The Musical” at the Robinson Center // Great Scott! The iconic 1985 flick gets the Broadway treatment in this award-winning show. Marty, Doc, Biff — the gang’s all here with plenty of rock ‘n’ roll to spare. Learn more here.
St. Patrick’s Day Weekend in Little Rock // The parade was just the beginning. Some of your favorite local haunts are celebrating across the next few days. Here’s where to pop in for a wee bit of fun:
If you prefer to stay at home: 3 Irish Whiskeys to Sip for St. Patrick’s Day
Friday & Sunday, March 14 & 16
“A Journey Through Time” with the Arkansas Chamber Singers // These singers are dedicated to performing the best of classical choral repertoire, and this seasonal program does just that by featuring select “choral gems of the ages” reaching back from the 16th century. Showtime is 7:30 p.m. Friday at Saint Edward Catholic Church and 3 p.m. Sunday at Saint Luke’s Episcopal Church. Learn more here.
The arts await: Lanterns Festival Returns to Wildwood Park for the Arts