If the forecast has you wanting to lock the doors, these (air-conditioned) activities will encourage you to get out and explore. Let’s get into it.
Thursday, July 17
Elliott West at UA Little Rock Downtown // Next up in the CALS Speaker Series, this author, historian and professor will discuss his book “Continental Reckoning: The American West in the Age of Expansion” and his focus on “the social and environmental history of the American West and of western Native peoples.” It starts at 6 p.m. Learn more here.
PSA: Access Group’s annual Bingo Bash is sold out, but you can still donate and enter raffles to help the nonprofit reach its fundraising goal. More on that here.
Friday, July 18
Third Friday Art Walk in Argenta // This monthly walk invites you to stroll through the Argenta Arts District’s lineup of special exhibits and events. Highlights include the Arkansas and Ozark Pastel Society Annual Show at Thea Foundation, hands-on fun at The Innovation Hub and an open studio with Bang-Up Betty and Lee Lee Arts + Design. The Art Walk starts at 5 p.m. Learn more here.
In the neighborhood: “9 to 5: The Musical” Comes to Argenta Contemporary Theatre This Month
Saturday, July 19
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. July’s event is all about patriotism and politics in the territory. Stop by 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Learn more here.
The Rock City Margarita Festival + Great Arkansas Beer Festival at the Statehouse Convention Center // You thirsty, Little Rock? Two of the city’s most sippable events are teaming up to host one big, delicious bash. Expect tons of margarita stations, breweries, wines and seltzers, plus plenty of food, games and music. The fest lasts from 5-8 p.m. Learn more here.
Not your thing? Try this mocktail recipe for summer sipping.
One Night Only at the Robinson Center // It’d be a tragedy to miss this show. The touring Bee Gees tribute band brings the brothers’ iconic groove to the stage, recreating their 1998 Las Vegas appearance. Showtime is 7:30 p.m. Learn more here.
Friday & Saturday, July 18 & 19
Classic Movies at Ron Robinson Theater // The popcorn is flowing once again at the CALS theater in the River Market. Up first is a BingoFlix screening of “Sharkansas Women’s Prison Massacre” on Friday at 7 p.m., then “Shrek” on Saturday at 12:30 p.m. Learn more here. Bonus: Come back Saturday night to celebrate the Arkansas Sounds Songwriter Showcase. More on that here.
Make it a double feature: Where to Watch Classic Movies in Little Rock This Summer
Sunday, July 20
National Loblolly Day at Loblolly Creamery // Scoops all around! Where else to celebrate National Ice Cream Day than with the hometown scoop shop? They’ll be slinging limited edition flavors, hosting giveaways and having fun all day. Swing by the SoMa or Hillcrest shop noon – 9 p.m. or the Pinnacle Mountain State Park outpost starting at 9:30 a.m. Learn more here.
Stay cool: 8 Local Frozen Treats to Help You Weather a Southern Summer
Distill & Chill at Rock Town Distillery // The summer blockbuster vibes are alive and well in SoMa. Rock Town’s throwback movie series welcomes you to the barrel house for a free screening and popcorn, plus drink specials. July’s lineup is all about sharks, and this week it’s “Sharkansas Women’s Prison Massacre” (just in case you missed the CALS screening). BYO chairs and blankets. Showtime is 5:30 p.m. Learn more here.
Friday – Sunday, July 18-20
Annual Sidewalk Sale at The Art Group Gallery // The Pleasant Ridge Town Center is getting a little extra punch of color this weekend from this yearly (indoor) sale. We suggest stocking up and giving your walls some love. Sale hours are 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday, then 1-5 p.m. Sunday. Learn more here.
Meanwhile, we found our muse: See who won the Soirée Cutest Dog Contest!