Pop-up markets, foodie events, high-flying circus acts — it’s all on the agenda this weekend. Let’s get into it.
Thursday, May 8
Cinco de Mayo Fiesta at Rusty Tractor Vineyards // It’s never too late for Cinco. Presbyterian Village’s annual fundraiser is still in the salsa spirit, promising guests an evening of Mexican cuisine, entertainment and auctions to support the foundation’s efforts to provide continuous care for older Arkansans. It starts at 5 p.m. Learn more here.
Friday, May 9
Home for Healing Golf Classic at Burns Park Golf Course // Let’s scramble. This 16th annual tourney pits four-person groups against each other on the green, all for the greater good of helping families with loved ones in the hospital.The shotgun start is at 12:30 p.m. Learn more here.
2nd Friday Art Night in Downtown Little Rock // It’s 2FAN time, aka the monthly lineup of downtown businesses opening their doors for after-hours artistic fun. Highlights this month include a mural tour with Bicycle Advocacy of Central Arkansas, art vendors at the CALS Rock It! Lab, a Katherine Strause sale and massages at Bella Vita and concerts and drinks at the Historic Arkansas Museum and Old State House Museum. 2FAN runs 5-8 p.m. Learn more here.
Read on: More neighborhood news from Downtown & Argenta
Le Grand Bal Masqué at Rusty Tractor Vineyards // You’ve never had a wine dinner quite like this. “An evening of mystery, music and indulgence” awaits at this masquerade party centered around five courses from chef Mindy Mitchell and the famed La Bouche du Roi wines from Versailles. And yes, masks are very much encouraged. Dinner is served at 6:30 p.m. Learn more here.
Saturday, May 10
Buzz B-Q at the Downtown Riverside R.V. Park // North Little Rock is getting smoked this weekend. The 21st annual cookoff from 103.7 The Buzz features eats from barbecue pros and newbies alike. Get your fill from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Learn more here.
Lost & Found Market at Sterling Market // No, we never get enough of all the local markets. Hosted by Dog Eat Dog, this market makes its return with more than 40 vendors showcasing their art, vintage goods and much more. Come shop 4-9 p.m. Learn more here.
The Evolve Gala at the Statehouse Convention Center // With the theme “Dare to Dream,” this annual fundraiser is back to celebrate The Centers. Guests can expect dinner, drinks, music, auctions and a special tribute to the 2025 Hero of Hope Mark Allison and this year’s class of Champions of Hope. The evening begins at 6 p.m. Learn more here.
Taylor Fest at The Hall // Are you ready for it? This traveling show has been roaming the country, throwing dance parties Taylor-made for grownup Swifties (and the Swiftie-adjacent) with all the hits, and now it’s back. Doors open at 8 p.m. Learn more here.
Thursday – Saturday, May 8-10
CALS Used Book Sale at 7773 Sloane Drive // Time to make a dent in that spring reading list. With the Main Library undergoing renovations, the CALS temporary offices in the Port Industrial Hub are full of gently read books, and they’re calling your name with pocket change price tags. Sale hours are 2-5 p.m. Thursday and 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Each day is open to the public, no FOCAL membership needed. Bring a backpack. Or maybe a U-Haul. Learn more here.
Classic Movies at Ron Robinson Theater // Meanwhile, the popcorn is flowing once again at the CALS theater in the River Market. Up first is “Hot Fuzz” on Thursday, then “Fried Green Tomatoes” on Friday, both at 7 p.m. On Saturday is the next Exhibition on Screen installment “Vincent Van Gogh: A New Way of Seeing” at 4 p.m., followed by an interactive screening of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” at 8 p.m. Learn more here.
Press play: Family-Friendly Nostalgia Fuels Summer @ CALS Movie Lineup
Friday & Saturday, May 9 & 10
Dogtown Throwdown in Argenta // The Main Street fun is back, baby. This weekend, the NLR neighborhood shuts down the streets for outdoor dining, vendors and local entertainment. Highlights include yoga in the plaza, pop-up markets, lots of live music and even more local goodness. From Friday happy hour to last call on Saturday night, you’ll find all kinds of fun in Argenta. Learn more here.
Sunday, May 11
Mother’s Day in the Metro // Whoever you’re celebrating with or honoring this weekend, there’s a little bit of something for everyone. Brunch reservations are filling up fast, so check with your favorite spots before popping in. And here are a few non-brunch options around the city:
Still need some inspo? Shop our Mother’s Day gift guide.
Thursday – Sunday, May 8-11
Sporting Events in the Metro // Two local teams are keeping their stadiums busy this weekend, and whether you’re a dedicated fan or just dipping your toe in, it’s a great chance to check them out. The Little Rock Rangers will take on the Arkansas Wolves Soccer Club on Saturday night, while the Arkansas Travelers go up against the Springfield Cardinals six nights in a row.
Saturday & Sunday, May 10 & 11
60th Anniversary Quapaw Quarter Spring Tour of Homes // Waiting all year for this quintessential Little Rock event is tough, but it’s paying off this weekend when guests get to enjoy touring historical neighborhood buildings, this time in the MacArthur Park neighborhood. Bonus events include Saturday’s Candlelight Tour at 5 p.m. and Sunday’s 11 a.m. brunch. Learn more here.
Circus at the Symphony at the Robinson Center // Things are getting rather fantastical on Broadway Street. Closing out the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra’s Pops Series is this showcase of performers from Arkansas Circus Arts set to popular songs from Hollywood and beyond. Catch the show at 7:30 p.m. Saturday or 3 p.m. Sunday. Learn more here.
Read on: Arkansas Symphony Orchestra Announces 2025-2026 Season