Each spring, in downtown North Little Rock, Argenta Plaza comes alive with the rhythm of live music, the color of local art and the laughter of families enjoying a festival unlike any other. This is Party at the Plaza, the Arkansas Hospice Foundation’s annual music and arts celebration, a free, family-friendly event with a mission that resonates far beyond the stage.
Now in its fourth year, Party at the Plaza has blossomed from a pandemic pivot into a signature event that’s redefining how we talk about — and celebrate — life, even at its most tender end. Born from the need for a safer, socially-distanced gathering, the festival has evolved into a vibrant showcase of community, care and compassion.
“Our vision for this event has always been twofold,” says Laura Grimes, the foundation’s director of outreach and development. “Yes, it’s a joyful day filled with incredible music and food. But it’s also a chance to open hearts and minds to the services Arkansas Hospice provides [and do so while] people aren’t in crisis, when they can truly understand their options.”
Credit: Courtesy of Arkansas Hospice
A Festival With a Mission
Unlike many fundraising galas tucked inside ballrooms, Party at the Plaza is outdoors, open to all and deeply personal. The day features the “Care Fair,” a unique space where festivalgoers can learn about hospice and palliative care, grief support and other services in a relaxed, approachable environment. Whether you’re a caregiver seeking clarity or simply curious about end-of-life care, it’s an opportunity to engage without pressure or urgency.
“We’re committed to destigmatizing these conversations,” Grimes says. “Hospice is about quality of life, and this event is a celebration of that — to the fullest, for as long as life lasts.”
That mission also extends to the Arkansas Hospice Foundation, which uses event proceeds to fill the gaps insurance doesn’t cover. From helping a young patient plan her dream prom to flying in distant family members for a final visit, the foundation ensures compassion never comes with a price tag.
Credit: Courtesy of Arkansas Hospice
Music Rooted in Arkansas Soul
This year’s theme of “Arkansas Roots” highlights homegrown talent with deep local connections. Headlining is the bluegrass powerhouse Arkansauce alongside emerging country-Americana phenoms Sophie and the New Relics, jazz-fusion favorite Rodney Block Collective and soulful acts like Katrice Newbill (aka. Butterfly from New Orleans) and the beloved Rocktown Sparks.
“This is a real gift to the community,” Grimes says. “We’ve brought Grammy winners and rising stars alike, and they all rally behind our cause. Many even share their own stories about hospice from the stage.”
Credit: Courtesy of Arkansas Hospice
More Than a Concert
From interactive art activities with the Museum of Discovery to bounce houses and princess visits in the kid zone, there’s no shortage of fun for families. Sixth Street will be lined with food trucks offering festival fare, while VIPs can enjoy exclusive access to a private tent with premium food, drinks and shaded seating.
This year’s event will also honor Judy Wooten, Arkansas Hospice’s recently retired CEO, with the Michael V. Aureli Compass Award. Aureli is the late founder of Arkansas Hospice, and the award is the foundation’s version of a lifetime achievement honor. Throughout the day, a massive video wall will showcase tributes to Wooten, as well as moving stories from patients and their families highlighting the powerful impact donor support makes possible.
New this year is the memory wall where, for a small donation, attendees can memorialize a loved one with their name and a message displayed on the giant screen throughout the day.
“It’s such a simple thing,” Grimes says, “but it means the world to people.”
Credit: Courtesy of Arkansas Hospice
How You Can Be Part of It
Party at the Plaza is free to attend and open to the public, but community support is what powers its impact. Donations of any size can be made online here, where you can also sponsor a tribute, join a local office fundraising team or become a “Friend of Judy” with a $100 gift in her honor.
“Our teams across 43 counties are in friendly competition,” Grimes says, “and every dollar raised supports patients in their area. It’s a beautiful way to make a difference locally.”
For those planning to attend for the first time, Grimes offers simple advice: “Bring a lawn chair, wear sunscreen and get comfy. It’s a low-stress, high-heart event where you can relax, connect and learn something that might serve you down the road.”
For more information about Party at the Plaza, visit partyattheplaza.org. For more information about Arkansas Hospice, visit arkansashospice.org.
A Soirée Paid Promotion