There’s a long weekend ahead of us with lots of friends, family and cozy festivities in store. Let’s get into it.
Wednesday, Nov. 26
Bright Nights at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts // Our weekend guide coming out a day early means we get to include one of our favorite weekly gatherings. On Wednesdays this season, the AMFA Cultural Living Room comes alive with champagne, gourmet bites, live music and in-depth conversations about the works on display. Drop in 5-8 p.m. Learn more here.
Thursday, Nov. 27
Gobbler Turkey Trot at Rock City Running // It’s back, turkeys. Everyone’s favorite Thanksgiving fun run returns once again to help you pre-game your inevitable food coma. Participants can choose between 3-, 4- or 6-mile courses through the WLR neighborhood, and let the kiddos run the Tiny Trot loop in the RCR parking lot. Santa will be back, of course, and most importantly, so will the food drive for the Arkansas Foodbank. Start time is 7:50 a.m. Learn more here.
Friendsgiving at Four Quarter Bar // Let the good vibes roll at this annual Argenta feast. Guests are invited to bring their Thanksgiving leftovers and neighborly spirit, with the Four Quarter kitchen adding its own flavors to the potluck. Doors open at 6 p.m. Learn more here.
Friday, Nov. 28
Enchanted Forest Trail of Lights Opening Night at the Sherwood Sports Complex // You’re on, Rudolph. Sherwood is getting the holiday fun started and kicking off its annual drive-thru light show this weekend with extended hours and streamlined access. The entrance is located at 420 Dee Jay Hudson Drive. They flip the switch at 5 p.m. Learn more here.
Shine on: Where to See Holiday Lights in Central Arkansas
Saturday, Nov. 29
Opening Day at The Rink at Lakewood // Outdoor ice skating in the metro? Yes, please. This delightful NLR park is turning down the temps with a public rink set just outside the Lakewood Property Owner’s Association HQ. It’s open through Jan. 4, but you can be one of the first to strap on the skates. It opens at noon and reservations are encouraged. Learn more here.
Heart & Soles Sneaker Ball at the DoubleTree Hotel // The worst part of galas is undoubtedly the blisters from the fancy shoes. This seventh annual black-tie event takes the sting out of the night with an evening of live entertainment, art, raffles and sneakers all around. The best part? It all benefits Heart & Soles, a nonprofit that provides footwear for kids in need. The party starts at 8 p.m. Learn more here.
Friday & Saturday, Nov. 28 & 29
Black Friday + Small Business Saturday // If you’re a regular Soirée reader, there’s a good chance you’re already making a plan of attack for all the ways you want to support your favorite local businesses across the metro. Many shops are even sweetening the deal by offering specials like discounts, giveaways and even a few bites to keep you going. Not sure where to start? Try this.
Festive Markets in the Metro // The #shoplocal spirit is coming in hot this weekend and the market scene definitely got the memo. Hit up these seasonal shopping spectacles.
Friday:
Saturday:
Opt Outside at Pinnacle Mountain State Park // It started small, but now the Opt Outside movement is a Black Friday tradition across the country, and that goes double for The Natural State. At Pinnacle, that means guided sunrise hikes, canoe floats, birding walks and more. Learn more here.
Sunday, Nov. 30
Brunch with Santa at Rusty Tractor Vineyards // Well, this is quite the merry menu. This annual RE501 Gives Foundation event comes complete with food trucks, music, kids’ activities, some one-on-one time with Santa and even mimosas for the grownups. Proceeds benefit Our House. It starts at 11 a.m. Learn more here.
“Holiday! 2025” at St. James United Methodist Church // It’s lovely weather for a concert together with the River City Men’s Chorus. On the first night of this annual holiday show, the chorus will perform old and new favorites alike, guaranteeing to leave you caroling long after the free concert ends. Showtime is 3 p.m. Learn more here.
Save the dates: 14 Can’t-Miss Holiday Shows to Celebrate the Season