There are always great things to do in the Natural State, and AY About You has compiled some of the most exciting events in Arkansas this weekend.

 

Listen to Heather Baker discuss weekend events every Friday morning on 103.7 The Buzz.

Heather Baker

 

Thursday, October 7

What: First Thursday and Main Street Morrilton Farmers’ Market

Where: Main Street (Morrilton)

When: 4 pm

Fresh air and fresh food – what more do you need? On the first Thursday of every month, Morrilton hosts its Main Street Farmers’ Market with local merchants and vendors open later than you would expect for a farmers’ market. The sun is shining and we’re not melting, so it’s safe to say that it’s the perfect time to get outside with the family and say hello to the community.

 

Thursday, October 7

What: Put Your Mark On Our Mark: Brand Launch & Community Art Project

Where: Walter Turnbow Park (Springdale)

When: 4:30 pm

The Arts Center of the Ozarks invites all you beautiful people to their rebranding launch as “Arts One Presents.” The event will kick off with a performance by Rozenbridge at 4:30 pm followed by Little Yei, DJ Susie Q and more. Arts One Presents wants the community involved in their special art project to help make their mark with wooden lawn logos primed and ready to be used as canvases. Masks and merch will be handed out with the new name and logo. Don’t miss out on the community fun, get creative!

 

Thursday, October 7

What: 8th Annual Justin Moore’s Night to be Great!

Where: Boys & Girls Clubs of Saline County (Benton)

When: 5 pm to 9:30 pm

Any Justin Moore fans in the house? Well, you’re in luck because he, alongside Heath Sanders and The Just Sayin’ Band, is performing outside the Boys & Girls Club of Saline County for the eighth year. Ticket purchases include a food voucher for one entree and side from participating food trucks. The saying goes that it takes an army, and the same can be applied to the community partners involved in the event as all of the water, soda and food are provided by various local businesses. Spots are filling up quickly, so buy your tickets now for “good friends, good times.”

 

Thursday, October 7

What: Create Little Rock Crew at the Zoo

Where: Little Rock Zoo (Little Rock)

When: 5:30 pm

Sink your claws into the chance to hang out with the young professionals of Generation Zoo and Create Little Rock and the critters living at the Little Rock Zoo. Network with the organizer of the event to learn more about the conservation education mission of the zoo. Zoo Director Susan Altrui will also be hanging around to discuss the latest news and updates at the zoo. Making the night an actual roar, the animals in the zoo’s Animal Ambassador Program will be around to meet the guests and crack a few jokes. RSVP here to guarantee your place in the pride.

 

Friday, October 8

What: Fall Food & Craft Fair

Where: 7th and Main Street (Little Rock)

When: 11 am

Happy Fall, y’all! Let’s get the season moving with a food and craft fair supporting artisans with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Hosted by the Arkansas Department of Human Services, the 5th Annual Fall Food and Craft Fair will feature handmade rugs, magnets, artwork, wreaths and more specially made items to really spice up your home and put a smile on your face. Bring your cash or credit cards for your art and tasty items from participating food trucks.

 

Friday, October 8 

What: 2nd Friday Art Night

Where: Downtown Little Rock

When: 5 pm

It’s Central Arkansas’ favorite time of the month: the second Friday. Participating galleries will have extended hours for guests to come in, explore and enjoy the art and pieces in the community. Central Arkansas Library System is opening a new exhibition by Clara Mitchell: Clara’s Sketchbook. In true October theme, Clara’s Sketchbook includes pen-and-ink drawings in a mix of serene and macabre. Other exhibitions include New Kids on the Print Block, Arkansas Society of Printmakers, Underground Gallery and more. Historic Arkansas Museum is bringing back their in-person 2nd Friday activities with a performance by The Going Jessies, activities on the museum grounds and smoked cheese and nuts from the smokehouse. Find a full list of participating galleries and activities here.

 

Friday, October 8 – Saturday, October 16

What: 30th Annual Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival

Where: Hot Springs National Park

When: Times vary

As legendary as the films it screens, the 30th Annual Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival is the longest-running non-fiction film festival in North America. The event will start out with one of the longest-standing festival traditions: a popcorn and champagne toast to this year’s, and previous year’s, lineup of films, speakers and workshops. Over 90 non-fiction films are scheduled to air both in-person and online throughout the week. Arkansas is lucky to have this film festival each year showcasing the stories and voices of real people and artists. Find the full schedule of events and films here. 

 

Friday, October 8

What: Jeepers Creepers 

Where:Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort (Hot Springs)

When: 6 pm to 10 pm

Jeepers creepers, where’d you get those headlights? Every Friday in October, Oaklawn is hosting weekly qualifying drawings. On Saturday, October 30, one lucky Silver guest will win a 2021 Jeep Renegade Latitude, one Gold guest will win a 2021 Dodge Challenger and one Elite guest will win a 2021 Jeep Gladiator Overland. Feeling lucky? Head down to Oaklawn, put your name into the drawing and try your hand in the casino.

 

Saturday, October 9

What: 8th Annual Vintage Military Vehicle Show

Where: MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military (Little Rock)

When: 9 am

History buffs, car collectors and anyone looking for something interesting, head to the historic parade grounds behind the MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History. Unlike other car shows, the Vintage Military Vehicle Show showcases vehicles that have history etched into every gear and particle of paint. Jeeps and other vehicles from members of the Arkansas Military Vehicle Preservation Associations will be on display. WWII Reenactors of Arkansas will perform and refreshments with be provided by Premium Refreshment Services and Blue Bell Ice Cream. Register your own vehicle that has seen some action here.

 

Saturday, October 2

What: Howl-O-Ween Parties in the Plaza

Where: Little Rock Zoo (Little Rock)

When: 9 am to 3:30 pm

What makes Halloween festivities even better? The gorgeous animals at the Little Rock Zoo, of course. On every Saturday in October (except the 23rd) the zoo is hosting Howl-O-Ween Parties in the Plaza. Your curious pups, the human ones that is, can come dressed in costume according to the theme of the Saturday, be awed at a magic show, show off their Monster Mash moves at a dance party and ride the Scaredy Cat Carousel. This Saturday’s theme is Rock Star Day, so bring your Axl, Ozzy and Olivia Rodrigo out for the special enrichment activities of the day: box turtles, river otters and the great apes Halloween enrichment with food scatter. There’s a full day of activities, both Howl-O-Ween and regularly scheduled, so get those walking shoes on and “howl” a great time.

 

Saturday, October 9

What: 8th Annual ArkanSalsa Fest 2021

Where: The Shiloh Square (Springdale)

When: 11:30 am to 5 pm

It’s salsa time! Put away the dancing shoes, we’re talking about the delicious dip that reveals a person’s maturity based on how much tomato they pile onto their chip. Downtown Springdale is hosting its 8th year of ArkanSalsa starting with a parade and the mayor’s proclamation. The rest of the day includes Best Tasting Salsa Contest, Autolowgy Car Show, Feed Your Brain Kids Zone and live music by ArkanSalsa LaBanda, Los Carnales Hernandez, Funk Factory and Sensacion Latina. NOW get out the dance shoes because Ballet Folklorico Herencia de Mexico, Los Chinelos Morelenses, L.I.L Marshallese Dancers and the Chinese Association of Northwest Arkansas are bringing music to life. Happy ArkanSalsa day!

 

Saturday, October 2

What: Halloween Weekends

Where: Magic Springs Theme and Water Park (Hot Springs)

When: 12 pm to 6 pm

October at Magic Springs is finally here, and that can only mean Halloween Weekends festivities are upon us. On Saturdays and Sundays for the entire month of October, guests are welcome to the Trick or Treat Trail, a pumpkin patch, Fright Flix Terror Trail, fall festival photo opportunities, the Undead Graveyard, Blacklight Bumpin’ Carz 2.0 and a frighteningly long list of more activities. Day and season passes are your tickets for Halloween Weekend fun.

 

Saturday, October 9

What: Blue Jeans & Bubbles

Where: SoMa Historic District (Little Rock)

When: 4 pm to 8 pm

You’re familiar with “Barefoot Blue Jean Night,” now get ready for Blue Jeans and Bubbles. Throw on your worn-in and second-skin jeans for the inaugural event featuring local eateries from SoMa, custom desserts, a signature champagne bar, games and much more. Bijoux and Juicebox Jake and the Lunchables are bringing live entertainment to the festival. Streets between 13th and 15th will be closed to traffic for the event with tables and chairs set up around the area and champagne flowing in the Bernice Garden. There are three ticket levels to choose from, and may we recommend the VIP experience that includes a commemorative champagne flute? Benefiting the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Arkansas, the event has set a goal of funding 2,000 nights for families with critically ill children in local hospitals. Cheers!

 

Saturday, October 9

What: Arkansas Fashion School Emerging Designers Fashion Show

Where: Arkansas Fashion School (Little Rock)

When: 6:30 pm

If you didn’t know, the “F” in fall stands for fashion, and isn’t it lucky that you can witness Arkansas’ up-and-coming fashion designers this weekend? Students from Arkansas’ one and only fashion school under the direction of designer Jamileh Kamran are showcasing their latest designs for the public at the school’s Emerging Designers Fashion Show 2021. Sit back with hors-d’oeuvres, wine or champagne and revel in the Arkansas talent that will one day make it to runways in Paris. Reserve your spot here.

 

Sunday, October 10

What: 10th Annual World Cheese Dip Championship

Where: River Market (Little Rock)

When: 12 pm

You can have your argument over ketchup versus rand and guacamole versus salsa, but we all know that cheese dip will always reign superior. White, yellow, spicy or mellow, cheese dip is completely versatile in ingredients and usage. Find out who has the best cheese dip at the 10th Annual World Cheese Dip Championship. Restaurants, culinary professionals and amateur masters of the kitchen are competing for the title of World Champion, and the public is the judge. Sounds pretty “gouda,” doesn’t it? Live music, cheese and People’s Choice Awards Cheese Dip Edition are all waiting on you, so don’t “brie” late. All proceeds from the events benefit Harmony Health Clinic, a charitable clinic that provides medical, dental, vision, pharmaceutical and specialty health services for low-income members of the community. 

 

Saturday, October 9

What: Doggie Paddle Day

Where: Jim Dailey Fitness and Aquatic Center (Little Rock)

When: 1 pm to 4 pm

No, this isn’t your chance to show off the one swim move you’ve been perfecting since you were in floaties – this day is for the dogs. Suit your pooches up and take them out for the one day of the year when dogs are allowed to swim in War Memorial’s outdoor pools. Fur babies can enjoy the large pool or jump around on the splash pad and chomp at the sprinklers. All breeds are welcome so long as they are comfortable around large groups of fellow canines and pet parents. 

Proceeds from the event go to the animals at Little Rock Animal Village. Making your dog’s day is only $10, and check here for rules you and your pup must follow.

 

Saturday, October 9

What: Spa City Rocktober Music Festival

Where: Hot Springs Historic Downtown Farmers Market

When: 3 pm to 10 pm

In the mood for a rockin’ time? How about spending the day with fellow music lovers at Rocktober Fest. Wildside, Adaya, Hooker Red, Exit From Dark, ThirteenX, Trapt and more will be performing all evening long. Enjoy merch vendors, drinks, event t-shirts, face painting and the sweet that turns up any party, funnel cake. Any person that walks through the gate will receive an entry into a special giveaway for a vibrant blue electric Fender Stratocaster guitar. 10 percent of entry proceeds will go toward “The Full Circle Missions,” a non-profit that provides goods and resources for homeless and hungry individuals in the community.

 

Sunday, October 10

What: G.O.A.T. Gold Over America Tour 

Where: Simmons Bank Arena (North Little Rock)

When: 7 pm

Don’t flip out, but the GOAT herself, Simone Biles, is coming to Simmons Bank Arena for the Gold Over America Tour. Celebrating female athletes as a united force uplifting and empowering one another, Biles and an all-star team of gymnasts are going to showcase their prowess and skills for the audience. The all-star team performing alongside Biles includes MyKayla Skinner, Laurie Hernandez, Jordan Chiles, Grace McCallum, Jade Carey, Katelyn Ohashi, Shilese Jones, Melanie De Jesus Dos Santos, Chellsie Memmel and Morgan Hurd. Spots are going faster than Laurie Hernandez can somersault, so buy your tickets quickly.

 

Friday, October 8 – Sunday, October 10

What: Jurassic Quest

Where: Statehouse Convention Center (Little Rock)

When: Times vary

Get ready for some “ptero”-bly good fun as Jurassic Quest migrates into the Statehouse Convention Center. Journey through the eras with over 100 dinosaurs so detailed a little bit of their lunch is still stuck in their teeth. Have the ultimate adventure with walking and stationary dinosaur rides including some of the largest rideable dinosaurs in North America. Are you have inklings of baby fever? Then hold your breath when you visit the realistic and interactive baby dinosaurs. Other activities include a raptor training, giant fossil dig, animal art tattoos, inflatables (socks required), science stations, crafts, games more. Don’t stomp around, hurry and get those tickets before they sell out!

 

Friday, October 8 – Sunday, October 10

What: Argenta Dogtown Throwdown

Where: Argenta Arts District (North Little Rock)

When: Times vary

Argenta is at it again with a weekend chock-full of live music, good eating and community bonding. Friday kicks off with Happy Hour at any local restaurant or bar in the Argenta District. Follow that up with a live performance by Jesse Cotton Stone Band and your weekend is already starting hot. Saturday is full of farmers’ market fun and the Hispanic Heritage Month Art and Food Festival. Sunday, if you still have the energy, is the inaugural Dogtown Beer Down. Participate in different heats from 1 to 3 pm, or join the Root Beer Mile at 1 pm. All proceeds will benefit the Thea Foundation. Obviously, there’s plenty to do in the district to just spend every waking moment on Main Street, so plan your full itinerary now.

 

Friday, October 8 to Sunday, October 10

What: Vintage Market Days of Northwest Arkansas

Where: Benton County Fairgrounds (Bentonville)

When: Times vary

Did someone say fall and holiday shopping with over 120 premier vendors from more than 15 states showcasing their vintage finds, handmade goods and latest fashion trends? Oh, that was us just now. Vendors, food trucks and local shops will all be set up at the Benton County Fairgrounds for Vintage Market Days of Northwest Arkansas. The possibilities of what you may find are endless, and you’re sure to leave with a car full of new goods. Grab your crafting buddies and shop, eat and chat till you drop with new and familiar vendors. Buy your tickets here.

 

Weekend Lineup at The Rev Room:

Friday, October 8:

  • My Posse In Effect; doors open at 7:30 pm, show begins at 9 pm; tickets are $12 in advance and $15 at the door.

Saturday, October 9:

  • Boom Kinetic; doors open at 8 pm, show begins at 10 pm; tickets are $10 in advance and $12 to $15 at the door.

 

Weekend Lineup at George’s Majestic Lounge:

Friday, October 8:

  • Happy Hour with Earl & Them with Nathan Bryce and Loaded Dice; doors open at 5 pm, show begins at 6 pm; tickets are $8.
  • 100 Proof & Friends; doors open at 8:30 pm, show begins at 9:30 pm; tickets are $10.

Saturday, October 9:

  • Tanner Usrey with Jordan Nix; doors open at 7 pm, show begins at 8:30 pm; tickets are $12 to $15.

Sunday, October 10:

  • 7 Hills Annual Shelter Jam with Funk Factory; doors open at 2 pm, show begins at 3 pm; tickets are $15.

 

Weekend Lineup at Railyard Live Rogers:

Friday, October 8:

  • The Juice; doors open at 7 pm, show begins at 8 pm; tickets are $0 to $20.

Saturday, October 9:

  • Willi Carlisle; doors open at 7 pm, show begins at 8 pm; tickets are $0 to $20.

 

On this day…

October 7:

  • On October 7, 1955, poet Allen Ginsburg read his poem “Howl” for the first time at a poetry reading in San Francisco.
  • On October 7, 1959, the far side of the moon was seen for the first time by USSR’s Luna 3 space probe.
  • On October 7, 1993, the Nobel prize for literature was awarded to American writer Toni Morrison.
  • On October 7, 2003, Arnold Schwarzenegger was named governor of California.

 

October 8:

  • On October 8, 1934, Bruno Hauptmann was indicted for the murder of Charles Lindbergh’s son.
  • On October 8, 1971, John Lennon released “Imagine.”
  • On October 8, 1998, the impeachment hearings against President Bill Clinton began.
  • On October 8, 2004, Martha Stewart began her five-month incarceration.

 

October 9: 

  • On October 9, 1915, President Woodrow Wilson became the first US president to attend a World Series game.
  • On October 9, 1981, capital punishment was abolished in France.
  • On October 9, 1986, Phantom of the Opera by Andrew Lloyd Webber premiered in London.
  • On October 9, 1990, radio stations around the world played “Imagine” to honor John Lennon on what would have been his 50th birthday.
  • On October 9, 2007, “Low” by Flo Rida was released.
  • On October 9, 2021, Malala Yousafzai was shot three times by a Taliban gunman as she was boarding her school bus.

 

October 10:

  • On October 10, 1871, the Great Chicago Fire is extinguished after three days leaving 300 dead, 100,000 homeless and $222 million in damage.
  • On October 10, 2014, Malala Yousafzai and Kailash Satyarthi won the 2014 Nobel Peace Prize.

 

Famous Birthdays:

  • John Mellencamp, American rock singer-songwriter, was born on October 7, 1951.
  • Simon Cowell, English recording executive and TV personality, was born on October 7, 1959.
  • Lewis Capaldi, Scottish singer-songwriter, was born on October 7, 1996.

 

  • R.L. Stine, American children’s book writer, was born on October 8, 1943.
  • Johnny Ramone, American rock guitarist, was born on October 8, 1948.
  • Sigourney Weaver, American actress, was born on October 8, 1949.
  • Matt Damon, American actor, was born on October 8, 1970.
  • Nick Cannon, American actor and rapper, was born on October 8, 1980.
  • Bruno Mars, American singer, was born on October 8, 1985.
  • Bella Thorne, American actress, was born on October 8, 1997.

 

  • John Lennon, British rock singer-songwriter, was born on October 9, 1940.
  • Sharon Osbourne, English-American music manager and TV personality, was born on October 9, 1952.
  • Marie Kondo, Japanese organizational guru, was born on October 9, 1984.
  • Bella Hadid, American fashion model, was born on October 9, 1996.

 

  • David Lee Roth, American rock singer, was born on October 10, 1954.
  • Mario Lopez, American actor, was born on October 10, 1973.

 

Holidays:

October 7:

  • National LED Light Day
  • National Frappe Day
  • National Inner Beauty Day
  • National Chocolate Covered Pretzel Day
  • National Forgiveness Day
  • Pick a Tune Day
  • You Matter To Me Day

 

October 8: 

  • National Fluffernutter Day
  • National Pierogi Day
  • American Touch Tag Day
  • National Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day
  • National Salmon Day
  • World Octopus Day

 

October 9: 

  • Astronomy Day
  • National Chess Day
  • National Moldy Cheese Day
  • National Costume Swap Day
  • National Motorcycle Ride Day
  • I Love Yarn Day
  • International Beer and Pizza Day
  • Leif Erikson Day
  • National Nanotechnology Day
  • World Post Card Day

 

October 10:

  • Clergy Appreciation Day
  • Pastor Appreciation Day
  • National Angel Food Cake Day
  • National Cake Decorating Day
  • National Handbag Day
  • Hug a Drummer Day
  • International Day for Natural Disaster Reduction
  • International Newspaper Carrier Day
  • International Stage Management Day
  • Motorsports Memorial Day
  • Squid and Cuttlefish Day
  • World Homeless Day
  • World Mental Health Day

 

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