Some showers and some flowers are both in the forecast this weekend. And while that may change the plans of some of these events, there’s still a 100% chance of local fun. Let’s get into it.
Thursday, April 23
River City Men’s Chorus Spring Concert at St. James United Methodist Church // We like the sound of this. “Freedom!” is the name of this year’s spring event that marks the final concert series of the season, and it’s filled with everything from spirituals to anthems in celebration of the country’s 250th anniversary. The show starts at 7 p.m. Learn more here.
“America 250” at the Second Presbyterian Church of Little Rock // Likewise, the Little Rock Wind Symphony is also pulling out the patriotism for its latest show. Conducted by Israel Getzov, this program will “[honor] our nation’s history, heritage and enduring spirit of freedom.” Showtime is 7:30 p.m. Learn more here.
Movie Night on Ninth Street // As part of the Beyond the Divide pop-up installation on West Ninth Street, visitors can get a taste of Hollywood with an outdoor screening of 2014’s “Annie.” While you’re there, make sure to peruse all the small Black-owned businesses in the pop-up. Showtime is 8 p.m. Learn more here.
And look good doing it: The Pulse of the Season, Soirée Spring Fashion 2026
Thursday – Sunday, April 23-26
Arkansas Travelers vs. Corpus Christi Hooks at Dickey-Stephens Park // Play ball, y’all. The Travs take on the Texas team in this week’s series, which also features different specials each night like fireworks and a visit from Bluey. Learn more here.
“Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” Opening Weekend at Argenta Contemporary Theatre // Something tells us this show is going to be extra sweet and even more adventurous. The theater continues its 2026 season with Roald Dahl’s classic tale of little Charlie Bucket’s fateful trip into the wild world of Willy Wonka. Learn more here.
Up next: Little Rock’s Spring & Summer 2026 Performing Arts Calendar
Friday, April 24
Soirée Women’s Leadership Symposium at the Statehouse Convention Center // Now in its eighth year, this half-day event offers leadership-focused networking and professional development opportunities with industry experts, entrepreneurs, C-suite executives and in-depth workshops. Liz Bohannon and Cindy Jones-Nyland will lead this year’s keynote sessions. The show goes on at 9 a.m. Learn more here.
Prom at the Museum of Discovery // Crowns all around. This MoD throwback bash is bringing the better-than-high-school vibes to the 21+ crowd. Expect live music from Monsterboy Lives, sips from Stone’s Throw and treats from Batch Life Bakery, plus flowers and jewelry to amp up your look. The party starts at 6 p.m. Learn more here.
Aldersgate After Dark at Camp Aldersgate // Your Friday could use some western vibes. Come get your fill at this annual fundraising event, which this year will recreate a “Big Sky” luxury ranch under the Arkansas stars. Enjoy frontier fare, live entertainment and outdoor fun. Saddle up at 7 p.m. Learn more here.
Read more in our March cover story: Wide Open Spaces
The Airmen of Note at Central High School // Keeping the Americana spirit going, the United States Air Force Band’s premier jazz ensemble continues its tour through the South with a stop at one iconic Little Rock locale. The concert features jazz favorites and contemporary pieces, and will honor military members past and present. Showtime is 7 p.m. Learn more here.
Friday & Saturday, April 24 & 25
Wild Wines at the Little Rock Zoo // Stripes, spots, whatever — it’s time to party. This can’t-miss bash takes place over the course of two nights. Friday night’s VIP event offers eats from some of the city’s best restaurants paired with hand-selected wines from O’Looney’s Wine & Liquor from 7-9 p.m. Saturday night is “The Mane Event” with more entertainment, more food and more libations awaiting attendees from 7-10 p.m. Proceeds benefit the Arkansas Zoological Foundation. Learn more here.
Classic Movies at Ron Robinson Theater // The popcorn is flowing once again at the CALS theater in the River Market. Up first is “Aliens” on Friday at 7 p.m. Then on Saturday is a BingoFlix marathon of “Labyrinth” at 12:30 p.m., followed by “The Sandlot” at 4 p.m. and “The Princess Bride” at 7 p.m. Learn more here.
Saturday, April 25
Central Arkansas Heart Walk at War Memorial Park // Lace up your sneakers. This annual event has the local chapter of the American Heart Association encouraging folks to hit the pavement to promote heart health. Go time is 7:45 a.m. Learn more here.
Rock Cities Book Crawl throughout the metro // Independent Bookstore Day just got bigger than ever and even better. This fourth annual event invites bookworms of all ages to hop between your fave indie bookstores and get in on special events and perks along the way. This year’s crawl features Beautywood Books, Sammy’s Bookshelf, The Book Store, Paper Hearts Bookstore, Pocket Dimension Bookshoppe, WordsWorth Books, Iron & Ink Collective and Pyramid Art, Books & Custom Framing. Learn more here. Bonus: The Misfit Maker Market will also be popping up at Iron & Ink. More on that here.
National Library Week Party at Main Library // It’s a good day to be a bookworm. CALS and the NLR Public Library System are teaming up to celebrate National Library Week with food trucks, games, crafts and, of course, books. Stop by 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Learn more here.
Puppy Palooza at Bark Bar // Things are getting all kinds of cute at this Spring Street joint. Bark Bar will host Out of the Woods Animal Rescue for a day packed with pups who need homes. Come meet them all and get in on the music and menu specials while you’re at it. Check it out 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Learn more here.
More paw-some news: Barkus on Main Rebrands, Moves to MacArthur Park
Pocket Park Pop-Up at the Main Street Pocket Park // Attention, shoppers. This popular outdoor market is back with a full lineup of local vendors, artists, food trucks and vintage finds. Come shop noon – 5 p.m. Learn more here.
Red Shoe Shuffle 5K at Two Rivers Park // New name, same good vibes, same great cause. Formerly called the Shamrock Shuffle, this fifth annual 5K includes a superhero-themed route for kids, and it all goes to benefit the Ronald McDonald House. Start time is 1 p.m. Learn more here. Bonus: Saturday also brings the Lake Nixon Spring Scramble 5K and the Panther Prowl 5K.
Keep moving: Spring Runs to Put on Your Calendar
The Downtown Playmakers Project at the Arkansas Repertory Theatre // Want to escape the real world for a bit? Back yet again, this production brings to life plays written by Martin Luther King Elementary students and performed by grownups who are ready to bring the fun. This weekend’s show promises a “Recipe for Catastrophe.” Showtime is 2 p.m. Learn more here.
Party at the Plaza at Argenta Plaza // Another weekend, another neighborhood bash at this NLR space. LifeTouch Health (formerly Arkansas Hospice) brings back its fundraising block party packed with great food, local artists, a kids’ zone and lots of live music. The party starts at 2 p.m. Learn more here.
Sunday, April 26
17th Anniversary Celebration at The Pantry // Time to party in delicious style. The WLR location is celebrating the occasion with a day of menu specials, and yes, that means the giant paella pan is coming out of storage. Stop by starting at noon, and get there early if you want paella. Learn more here.
Tea with KLRE at The Capital Hotel // If a more delightful afternoon exists, we’d love to see it. This Little Rock Public Radio fundraiser returns, serving up a tasty spread of teas and treats set to the sounds of the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra String Quartet. It starts at 1 p.m. Learn more here.
Restore in Perpetuity (R.I.P.) Spring Picnic at Mount Holly Cemetery // If this is the first you’ve heard of this event, hear us out. Yes, the picnic takes place in a cemetery (a beautiful one, at that), but the springtime event is all about raising funds to help maintain the historic landmark, and they do it with food, drinks, tours and live music. It takes place from 5-7 p.m. Learn more here.
More spring fun: Your Guide to Farmers Markets in the Little Rock Metro