EVENTS IN NORTHWEST ARKANSAS
COMMUNITY EVENTS
First Fridays—April 5 & May 3
Presented by Walmart, the Bentonville Square’s giant neighborhood block party is now delivering an expanded footprint, new local participation, enhanced music performances, food, activities, and fun for the whole family. Events will be from 3 to 9 p.m. April’s theme is The Eclipse, and May’s theme is Outdoor Adventure. Downtown Square. Bentonville. www.downtownbentonville.org
Fayetteville Farmer’s Market—April 6 thru Dec.
The oldest farmers market in Arkansas includes 70 vendors each season, featuring a wide variety of seasonal vegetables, fruits, meats, eggs, and cheeses, in addition to fresh-cut flowers, baked goods, honeys, jams, a variety of plants, fine art and handmade crafts. Saturdays 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Downtown Fayetteville. www.experiencefayetteville.com
Art on the Bricks—April 11 & May 9
Enjoy artwork from regional artists featured in local businesses and shops from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Downtown Rogers. www.rogerslowell.com
Vintage Market Days—April 12 thru 14
This upscale vintage-inspired market features original art, antiques, clothing and jewelry, handmade treasures, home décor, outdoor furnishings, consumable treats, seasonal plantings and more. Benton County Fairgrounds. Bentonville. www.vintagemarketdays.com
Bentonville Farmers Market—April 13 thru Oct. 26
Weekly market featuring fresh local fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, crafts and fine art by local artists. Saturdays from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Downtown Square. Bentonville. www.downtownbentonville.org
Spring Art Walk—April 25 thru 27
Featuring a free, self-guided tour showcasing visual art, clothing and interactive art along with special ticketed events. Explore displays of local art through galleries, museums and businesses. Downtown Springdale. www.downtownspringdale.org
Dogwood Festival—April 26 thru 28
Annual award-winning festival featuring arts and crafts exhibitors, food vendors, live music and entertainment, kids’ fun zone with games and rides, and more. Special events throughout the weekend include the pancake eating contest, the Dogwood Festival Pageant, Dogwood Doxie Relay, Dogwood Duck Race and Dogwood Trail Race. Downtown Siloam Springs. www.siloamchamber.com/dogwood-festival
Bentonville Together—April 27
A celebration of our multicultural community. Event is from 4 to 7 p.m. Orchards Park. Bentonville. www.downtownbentonville.org
The Original Rogers Farmers Market—April 27 thru Nov.
Serving Rogers for over 30 years, this market brings you locally grown produce, handmade crafts, baked goods, jams and jellies, honey, meat, eggs and more. Market runs on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Frisco Station Mall parking lot. Rogers. www.rogersfarmersmarket.org
Cane Hill Community Picnic—April 28
Bring your family and a picnic lunch as you meet new friends and community members. Historic Cane Hill. www.historiccanehillar.org
Arkansas Pottery Festival—May 3 thru 5
This three-day weekend includes pottery demonstrations, lectures, and a pottery sale of more than 50 potters from around the state. Spotlight artists include Troy Jackson and Betty Gaedtke. Community Creative Center. Fayetteville. www.communitycreativecenter.org
ARTS & CULTURE
Arkansas Air & Military Museum—Current Exhibition
Currently on display thru Dec. 2025: Short Strips & Tight Grips. Arkansas Air & Military Museum. Fayetteville. www.arkansasairandmilitary.com
The Auditorium—Upcoming Concerts
April 7: Moonlight Before Eclipse Concert, 7 p.m.; April 13: The Ultimate Garth Brooks Tribute, 7:30 p.m.; and April 26: Mike Campbell and the Dirty Knobs, 7:30 p.m. The Auditorium. Eureka Springs. www.visiteurekasprings.com
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art—Current & Upcoming Exhibitions
Currently on display thru April 22: Marie Bannerot McInerney: Trace Me Back; running thru May 27: A Soldier’s Journey; running thru June 10: Danielle Hatch: All the Soarings Of My Mind Begin In My Blood; running thru July 29: Exquisite Creatures; and beginning April 13 running thru Sept. 30: Space Makers: Indigenous Expression and a New American Art. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. Bentonville. crystalbridges.org
The Momentary—Current Exhibition & Upcoming Events
Currently on display thru April 7: Enduring Amazon: Life and Afterlife in the Rainforest. Special events include: Antonio Sanchez | Birdman Live 10th Anniversary at 7 p.m. on April 12; The Dip at 7 p.m. on April 13; and Jon Batiste: Uneasy Tour at 7 p.m. on April 23. The Momentary. Bentonville. www.themomentary.org
TheatreSquared—Current & Upcoming Events
Currently running thru May 5: Laughs in Spanish; and beginning April 17 running thru May 12: Fat Ham. TheatreSquared. Fayetteville. www.theatre2.org
Walmart AMP—Upcoming Concerts
The 2024 season begins April 26 with Hozier, 7:30 p.m.; April 27 with Riley Green, 7:30 p.m.; May 1 with Greta Van Fleet, 7 p.m.; May 2 with NEEDTOBREATHE, 7 p.m.; May 3 with Parker McCollum, 7:30 p.m.; May 10 with Brooks & Dunn, 7 p.m.; May 11 with Whiskey Myers, 6:30 p.m.; May 18 with 21 Savage, 7 p.m.; May 30 with HARDY, 6:45 p.m.; and May 31 with Hootie & The Blowfish, 7 p.m.
Walmart AMP. Rogers. www.waltonartscenter.org/amp
Walton Arts Center—Upcoming Performances & Current Exhibition
April 4: The Comedy Zone: Michael Palascak, 7:30 p.m.; April 5: Jackie Venson, 7:30 p.m.; April 6: SoNA’s Ode to Joy: Beethoven’s Ninth, 7:30 p.m.; April 6: Arkansas Filmmakers Showcase, 8 p.m.; April 12: Take 6, 8 p.m.; April 13: VoiceJam Competition, 7:30 p.m.; April 16 thru 21: Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird; April 26: Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain, 8 p.m.; April 27: Aubrey Logan Band, 7:30 p.m.; April 28: NORTH, 4 p.m.; May 1: John Waters’ Devil’s Advocate, 7 p.m.; May 3 thru 10: Hairspray; May 11: Film Fest: Indie Films Artosphere, 8 p.m.; and May 14 & 15: +ERBA – A Forest in the City, 6:30 p.m. Current exhibition is from Robyn Horn and Sandra Sell and will remain on display thru April 21, with a special gallery walk-through and creative conversations with the artists on April 4 & 5. Walton Arts Center. Fayetteville. www.waltonartscenter.org
Arkansas State Quail and Turkey Stamp Artwork Competition and Exhibition—Thru April 27
Held in partnership with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and its foundation, the exhibition features selections from the juried competition, including the winners for each category, appearing on the 2024 Quail and Turkey stamps issued by AGFC. Historic Cane Hill. www.historiccanehillar.org
Moon to Mars—Thru May 6
This exhibition will transport children to a world of new possibilities. Young explorers will design and fly rockets, hover above the planet in a spacecraft, walk in reduced gravity and navigate new terrain in the Lunar Rover. Scott Family Amazeum. Bentonville. www.amazeum.org
Music on the Mountain—Thru May 18
Get into Arkansas’ musical roots all season long with Mount Sequoyah’s spring Music on the Mountain Series. This vibrant collection of outdoor concerts is free thanks to the support of an Arkansas Heritage grant. Mount Sequoyah. Fayetteville. www.mountsequoyah.org
Into the Woods—April 5 thru 14
Experience a journey with familiar fairy-tale characters like Cinderella and Little Red Riding Hood as they navigate a world where wishes and reality collide in unexpected ways. Arkansas Public Theatre. Rogers. www.arkansaspublictheatre.org
We Care Concert—April 13
A benefit concert featuring two of the best gospel quartets in the country, with 100% of the proceeds going to five great faith-based service partners. Concert starts at 5:30 p.m. Fellowship Fayetteville. www.wecareconcert.com
George Dombek Open Studio—April 13 thru 28
Arkansas native and nationally recognized watercolor artist George Dombek, known for his painting of barns, bicycles, flowers, birds, stones and art glass, is opening his studio and grounds this month on select Saturdays and Sundays. Open studio times run from 2 to 6 p.m. 844 Blue Springs Road, Fayetteville. www.georgedombek.com
Live at Turnbow—April 25 & May 30
Live music featuring local musicians and bands — from jazz to mariachi, bluegrass to funk. Bring your blankets and chairs. Free concerts are held on Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. Downtown Springdale. www.downtownspringdale.org
Home Sweet Home Festival—April 26 & 27
This 5th annual event allows attendees to experience some of the best storytellers and house shows you’ll ever see from national and local artists. The event includes 55 shows, 23 hometown artists, 18 national artists, and 20 homes over the course of two days. Downtown Bentonville. citysessions.org
SPORTS & RECREATION
NWA Naturals—Upcoming Home Games
Kick off the 2024 season April 5 thru 7 vs. Tulsa Drillers; April 16 thru 21 vs. Midland RockHounds; April 30 thru May 5 vs. Wichita Wind Surge; and May 7 thru 12 vs. Springfield Cardinals. Visit the website for game times, promotional theme night information and admission prices. Arvest Ballpark. Springdale. www.nwanaturals.com
US Pro Cup 2024—April 3 thru 7
Cross-country mountain bike racing, qualifiers and classes for all levels. Olympic hopefuls will gather for the opportunity to score last minute qualifying points. This UCI-sanctioned event will feature competition and fun for beginners, amateurs and professional riders alike. Centennial Park. Fayetteville. www.experiencefayetteville.com
Bentonville Half Marathon—April 6
The 14th annual event follows a race course that will take runners through the heart of Bentonville and highlight its beautiful trail system. Race begins at 7 a.m. Downtown Bentonville. www.runbentonville.com
Hazel Valley Rally—April 13
On a 300-acre private ranch east of Fayetteville, participants can choose between 45-mile and 64-mile route options. Both routes send cyclists deep into the Boston Mountain Range of the Ozarks. Hazel Valley Ranch. Fayetteville. www.experiencefayetteville.com
Walk For Wishes—April 13
This family-friendly event is powered by Make-A-Wish families, volunteers, companies, donors and friends. This year’s honorary co-chairs are Clint Gill with Sam’s Club and Jillian Cueff with Walmart. Registration begins at 9 a.m. Arvest Ballpark. Springdale. www.wish.org
NWA Spring Classic Road Race—April 14
All Sports Productions and the Fayetteville Wheelmen cycling team join together for this event. Various race lengths are offered. Prairie Grove Intermediate School. www.nwaspringclassic.com
Natural State Criterium Series—April 17 & May 15
These are high-energy, spectator-friendly races on a closed course. Event is from 4:30 to 8 p.m. Downtown Springdale. www.downtownspringdale.org
Cornhole Tournament—April 20
Main Street Siloam Springs, Bentonville Brewing Co., and Springwoods Behavioral Health, bring you this fun and competitive tournament. There will be two brackets, one for the “Average Joes” and one for the “Advanced.” Prizes will be awarded for both. Proceeds benefit downtown Siloam Springs revitalization. Creekside Taproom. Siloam Springs. www.mainstreetsiloam.org
Gravel Fest for MS—April 20 & 21
This all-gravel ride affair is an out-and-back, out on day 1 and back on day 2, traversing through the back roads of Arkansas to capture its scenic splendor before entering the majestic beauty of southern Missouri. Event benefits the Rampy MS Research Foundation. Gearhead Experience Center. Bentonville. www.37northexpeditions.com
Hogeye Marathon—April 20 & 21
This 48th annual event includes a Boston Marathon qualifying marathon, the Hogeye Half Marathon and a four-person relay. Downtown Springdale. www.hogeyemarathon.com
Family Fun Festival and 5K—April 26
Children & Family Advocacy Center is going back to the ‘90s to kick off this event with a 5K and kid’s Hero Dash, which will be followed by free activities for families to enjoy. This year’s event chair is Laura Rush with Walmart. Railyard Park. Downtown Rogers. www.cfacbentonco.com
Gold Rush—April 26
Annual event benefiting the Bentonville Public School Foundation. Fun run begins at 6:30 p.m., and 5K race will begin at 7 p.m. Old Tiger Stadium. Bentonville. www.bentonvilleschoolfoundation.org
Dogwood Race—April 27
Annual 5K, 10K and Fun Run, presented by the Siloam Springs Chamber of Commerce, with a new route redesign. Prizes will be awarded to both top male and female participants in each age category. Bob Henry Park. Siloam Springs. www.siloamchamber.com/dogwood-festival
Highlands Gravel Classic—April 27
The only age-group qualifier in the USA for the Trek UCI Gravel World Series as one of two qualifying events in North America, this event features two courses — the Highlands 66 mile and Farmlands 52 mile. 244 Clark Street. Goshen. www.highlandsgravelclassic.com
Loaf and Sole 5K—April 27
For this 4th annual event, participants can run or walk their way to 3.1 miles. In addition, there will be a kids fun run and DJ. Race begins at 7:30 a.m. Event helps raise funds and awareness for Table 7three. Genesis Church. Fayetteville. www.table7three.com
Pagnozzi Parker Charities Big Bass Tournament—April 27
Join in for the 12th annual tournament benefiting Pagnozzi Parker Charities. There will be hourly and overall cash prizes. Event will be from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Prairie Creek, Beaver Lake. Rogers. www.pagnozziparker.org
Paws Off Family Dog Walk—April 27
Hosted by the NWA Center for Sexual Assault, this event will include a Dog Walk followed by dog-friendly games, activities, and competitions to help spread information about sexual assault, offer information about free survivor services, and unite the community in the fight to end sexual violence and harassment. Event is from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Walker Park. Fayetteville. www.nwasexualassault.org
NWA Great Strides—April 28
This event provides a fantastic opportunity for family, friends, students, and colleagues to come together and make a difference in the lives of cystic fibrosis patients and their families. Walk begins at 3 p.m. Arvest Ballpark. Springdale. fightcf.cff.org
Hike at Devil’s Den State Park—May 3
Trek through this historic park created in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Hike a quarter-mile trail with a park interpreter and visit other works created by the CCC. Hike is from 3 to 4 p.m. Devil’s Den State Park. Winslow. www.shilohmuseum.org
Noon2Moon Mountain Bike Race—May 3 & 4
Be a part of this 3rd annual endurance mountain bike race. Not sure you want to take on a full 6- or 12-hour endurance race? Grab two friends and sign up for the 6-hour relay race, only two hours of riding each. Coler Mountain Bike Preserve. Bentonville. www.peelcompton.org
Cow Paddy Run—May 4
A 5K for adults and older kids and a 1K Fun Run for the little ones. Proceeds benefit The Spark Foundation, a Fayetteville nonprofit creating a positive impact in the community by providing increased access to health and fitness education and opportunities. Gulley Park. Fayetteville. www.mysparkfoundation.org
Girls on the Run 5K—May 4
This 5K gives program participants of all abilities a tangible sense of accomplishment. Crossing the finish line instills confidence through completion and is a joyful moment program participants always remember. Gulley Park. Fayetteville. www.gotrnwa.org
Halfway Halt @ Square 2 Square—May 4
Cheer on the riders during their 30-mile trip traveling from Fayetteville to Bentonville on the Razorback Greenway. Enjoy food, drinks and music. Event is from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Turnbow Park. Springdale. www.downtownspringdale.org
Heather Ridley-Fleeman Battle for Hope—May 4
This event highlights the life of Heather Ridley-Fleeman and raises awareness for colon cancer. All proceeds benefit Hope Cancer Resources. Race begins at 7:30 a.m. Old Tiger Stadium. Bentonville. www.heathersraceforhope.com
Square 2 Square—May 4
The spring ride will be moving north as riders travel from the Fayetteville Square to the Bentonville Square, with a Halfway Halt event in Downtown Springdale. Walker Park. Fayetteville.
Mercy Golf Classic—May 6
This 31st annual event raises money for Mercy Health Foundation NWA and helps ensure it is able to continue meeting health care needs in our community. Pinnacle Country Club. Rogers. www.mercyhealthfoundation.net
OTHER EVENTS
Arkansas State Parks—Upcoming Events
Three local parks feature a variety of experiences from guided hikes to educational workshops: Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park, Devil’s Den State Park and Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area. Search for fun activities and ways you can get involved to make Arkansas State Park memories to last a lifetime. www.arkansasstateparks.com
Cherishing Children Rally—April 1 & 5
Children & Family Advocacy Center hosts this rally to recognize National Child Abuse Awareness & Prevention Month, encouraging the community to gather together to raise awareness and shine a light on child abuse. April 1 at noon at Gentry Park, and April 5 at noon at Citizens Park in Bentonville. www.cfacbentonco.com
Big Business Brunch—April 3
Connect with Latriece Watkins, executive vice president and chief merchandising officer at Walmart U.S., while enjoying brunch. All money raised at this event stays local to support Big Brothers Big Sister of NWA. 21c Museum Hotel. Bentonville. www.bbbsnwa.org
NWA Gives—April 4
Participate by donating to your favorite local nonprofit. Northwest Arkansas has hundreds of nonprofits that aim to improve the lives of its residents. www.nwagives.org
Boys and Girls Club Youth of the Year—April 5
This event includes dinner, drinks, live and silent auctions, a chance to see what they do all year long, and an opportunity to hear from the BGCBC 2024 Youth of the Year winner. Event begins at 6 p.m. Heroncrest. Elm Springs. www.bgcbentoncounty.org/events
Ozark Eclipse Celebration Weekend—April 5 thru 8
Join the Ozark Natural Science Center for an astronomy and eclipse-themed weekend, followed by a bus ride to view the eclipse in the totality zone. Event begins at 5 p.m. Ozark Natural Science Center. Huntsville. www.onsc.us
Fayetteville Blackout Whiskey Fest—April 6
Join in for a whiskey-tasting night. Must be 21 years or older to attend. VIP entry begins at 3 p.m. General admission is from 4 to 7 p.m. Mount Sequoyah. Fayetteville. www.arwhiskeyfestival.com
Dog Days of Summer—April 7
Bring the family (humans and fur kids) to enjoy fun in the sun, wine (for those old enough) and more. A portion of the proceeds benefit the Humane Society of the Ozarks. Event is from noon to 5 p.m. Sassafras Spring Vineyard & Winery. Springdale. www.hsozarks.org
Dress for Success Brunch—April 11
This inspiring event features an executive women’s panel, brunch with mimosas, an auction and networking opportunities. McCauley Hall, Center for Nonprofits. Rogers. www.dressforsuccessnwa.com
Panther Party—April 13
Dance through the decades to support St. Joseph Catholic School and the future vision for a multi-purpose facility. Event begins at 6 p.m. JJ’s Live. Fayetteville. www.sjfayschool.com
Reading the Greens—April 13
This indoor minigolf fundraiser will take attendees through the Fayetteville Public Library, ending with awards and entertainment. Proceeds benefit the Fayetteville Public Library Foundation. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. with a 7 p.m. tee time. Fayetteville Public Library. www.faylib.org
Wine Dinner—April 14
Restore Humanity’s annual wine dinner will feature a four-course menu with limited tickets. Bordinos Restaurant. Fayetteville. www.restorehumanity.org
Spring Dr. Compton Native Tree & Plant Sale—April 16 thru 20
Annual spring plant sale with more than 70 varieties of perennial, ornamental grasses, vines, shrubs and trees. This year’s sale will also feature Pollinator Trays: 32-count trays with four different varieties of native perennials. Compton Gardens Maintenance Office. Bentonville. www.peelcompton.org
Camp 479—April 19
Attendees can play like a Girl Scout and party like a grown-up at this event supporting Girl Scouts – Diamonds of Arkansas, Oklahoma and Texas. Enjoy outdoor activities, cocktails, dinner, music and a silent auction from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Barn at the Springs. Springdale. www.girlscoutsdiamonds.org
Osage Park After Dark—April 19
A special alfresco dinner experience limited to 125 people where you can learn more about Osage Park. Evening includes a dinner featuring Case Dighero complemented by signature cocktails and select wines, with a guided tour of the wetlands. Presented by Peel Compton Foundation and the Ozark Foundation. Osage Park. Bentonville. www.peelcompton.org
UnGala Fundraiser—April 19
Let your inner child come out and play at this interactive, hands-on fundraiser. Proceeds fund the Amazeum’s accessibility initiatives. This 21 or older event includes food trucks, 24V racers and honorary chair David Guggina with Walmart. The fun goes from 7 to 10 p.m. Scott Family Amazeum. Bentonville. www.amazeum.org
Arkansas State Chili Championship—April 20
The 8th annual event includes chili cooks from around the country competing in four categories. The winners will complete in the World Chili Championship Cookoff in September. Event is sanctioned by the International Chili Society and benefits The Purple Flower. Public tasting runs from 12:30 to 4 p.m. Holiday Island Country Club. Eureka Springs. www.eurekaspringschamber.com
The Art of Welcome—April 20
Enjoy an evening of inspiring stories, entertainment, and international cuisine to celebrate the diverse traditions and cuisines from around the world as new refugee neighbors graciously share their culture and heritage with Northwest Arkansas. The Barn at the Springs. Springdale. www.canopynwa.org
Earth Day Forest Bathing—April 20
Submerse yourself in nature as you learn the benefits of tuning into trees and natural surroundings through a guided walk. Historic Cane Hill. www.historiccanehillar.org
Fayetteville Tequila Fest—April 20
Get ready to party with the best tequilas in town, including the People’s Choice Margarita Contest, and live music. VIP hour is from 3 to 4 p.m. and general admission is from 4 to 7 p.m. Must be 21 years of age to attend. Mount Sequoyah. Fayetteville. www.experiencefayetteville.org
Sunshine Gala—April 20
An event full of country chic attire, live entertainment, silent and live auctions, dinner, and dancing to support Sunshine School clients of all ages touched by disability. Ledger. Bentonville. www.nwasunshineschool.org
Touch-a-Truck—April 20
Check out the dozens of vehicles that kids (and kids at heart) can explore while supporting the mission of the Junior League of Northwest Arkansas. General admission hours are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with a quiet hour for children with sensory needs from 9 to 10 a.m. Rogers Convention Center. www.juniorleaguenwa.org
Earth Day Festival—April 21
Join the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks as it celebrates Earth Day with family-friendly activities, crafts, music, games and giveaways. Event is from 3 to 6 p.m. Botanical Garden of the Ozarks. Fayetteville. www.bgozarks.org
NWA Travel Expo—April 21
Get ready for the ultimate travel experience at this first annual Travel Expo presented by the Travel Advisors of Northwest Arkansas. Discover new destinations, meet travel experts, and start planning your next adventure. DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel. Bentonville. Tickets available on Eventbrite.
Sarah Jessie Young Style of Leadership—April 23
Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce’s annual event highlighting fashion and community. Beaver Water District will present the Sarah Jessie Young Award to retired Deputy Police Chief Jamie Fields. Boutique Showcase starts at 11 a.m., the lunch and style show start at 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Fayetteville Town Center. www.fayettevillear.com
NWA Spring Job Fair—April 24
The Rogers Lowell Chamber of Commerce presents this largest and longest running job fair in Arkansas from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The perfect opportunity for employers and job seekers alike, and don’t forget your resumes. Rogers Activity Center. www.rogerslowell.com
Game Show Battle NWA—April 25
This exciting and entertaining event raises awareness and donations for the NWA Food Bank. The game will be set up in brackets of five-member corporate “families” to compete against each other to answer the most popular survey questions while earning points. Also, enjoy food, signature drinks, networking and spirited competition. The competition begins at 5 p.m. Four Points by Sheraton. Bentonville. www.nwafoodbank.org
Wall of Distinction Banquet—April 25
This event, hosted by the Rogers Public Education Foundation, brings the city together to support public school excellence and honor alumni, teachers, administrators, parents and community leaders who have made an impact on the city’s public school system. Event is from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Rogers Convention Center. www.rogerspef.org
Baby Ball—April 26
This fun evening raises funds for Compassion House. The evening will include drinks, dinner, silent and live auctions, and inspirational speakers. Event starts at 6 p.m. The Apollo on Emma. Springdale. www.compassionhouse.us
NWA Young Professionals Summit—April 26
NWA Emerging Leaders and Rotary Clubs of NWA present this 7th annual unique leadership summit entitled Igniting Your Passion. Event will focus on helping young professionals personally, professionally, and philanthropically through an enriching lineup of panels and speakers. Record Downtown. Bentonville. www.nwaypsummit.com
Red Shoe Soirée—April 26
This 10th annual event celebrates contributions that have impacted the success of the Ronald McDonald Charities’ family-centered care programs. Heroncrest. Elm Springs. www.rmhcofarkoma.org
Plant Sale—April 26 & 27
Guests can shop from 20+ local vendors selling a wide variety of plants, flowers, pottery, garden accents and art, and other products by local artisans. Event will be open for members on Friday and to the public on Saturday. Botanical Garden of the Ozarks. Fayetteville. www.bgozarks.org
Bentonville Together—April 27
Celebrate the 3rd annual event hosted by Bentonville Parks and Recreation. This family-friendly event highlights art, music, customs, and traditions from around the world while celebrating the many cultures who call Bentonville home. Orchards Park. Bentonville. www.bentonvillear.com
Dickson St. PUP Crawl—April 27
Stroll around, have fun and meet animal lovers from all walks of life. You will get a passport with all participating locations, and there will also be a paw-ty central with treats, door prizes, selfie area and more.
This 11th annual event will take place from 2 to 6 p.m. with proceeds benefiting the Fayetteville Animal Shelter. Dickson Street. Fayetteville. Tickets available on Eventbrite.
Great Southern Beer Festival—April 27
Join local nonprofit Ale-Truism for a festival bringing great beers from across the state to one location. Sales will be benefiting nine charitable organizations. Event begins at 4 p.m. Turnbow Park. Springdale.
Heroes Gala—April 27
This formal event is a fundraising event for Sheep Dog Impact Assistance. Funds raised help support its programming to improve the physical and mental well-being of military veterans and first responders (law enforcement, fire & rescue, and EMS professionals), reengaging them in living their best lives. Rogers Convention Center. www.sheepdogia.org
Women’s Expo & Great Tastes Food Expo—April 27 & 28
The 40/29 and Arkansas CW NWA event is back with 175 shopping booths, live entertainment, the Great Tastes Food Expo, 40/29 Weather Team, Arkansas CW Crew, HARPS Mother Daughter Look-Alike Contest, the Belk Dress For Success Fashionable Fundraiser, raffles, gift card give aways and much more. Benton County Fairgrounds & Expo Center. Bentonville. www.womenslivingexpo.com
Vera Lloyd’s Garden Party—April 28
Join in for an afternoon of bubbly and bingo as well as hors d’oeuvres, live music, a wine pull, silent auction and more. Proceeds support the Vera Lloyd Presbyterian Family Services raising funds for Foster Care programs in Arkansas. Event is from 2 to 4 p.m. The Peel Mansion & Botanical Garden. Bentonville. www.veralloyd.org
Celebration of Excellence—May 1
An evening to celebrate public education through the introduction of teacher grants, Pendergraft recipients and student scholarships — all brought to life through the generosity of Fayetteville Public Education Foundation donors. Arkansas Air and Military Museum. Fayetteville. www.fayedfoundation.org
a la Carte—May 2
Hosted by the Arkansas Children’s Northwest Auxiliary, this sampling event and premier silent auction brings the best restaurants in the Northwest Arkansas region together for a night of food and fun. This year’s theme is “A Wonderland Affair!” Ledger. Bentonville. www.archildrens.org
Gala for Education and Access—May 2
Evening will feature wine, a three-course plated dinner by Chef Matthew Cooper and musical performances that will lift your spirits for months to come. Funds raised will help to extend access and arts-in-education to youth and underserved community members. Event is from 6 to 9 p.m. Fayetteville Public Library. www.theatre2.org
Plant A Seed Soirée—May 3
Featuring live entertainment, a fabulous dinner prepared by Brightwater students, and a live and online silent auction. Proceeds will provide critical funds for student scholarships. North Lawn, Northwest Arkansas Community College. Bentonville. www.nwaccfoundation.org
Cinco de Mayo Festival—May 4
Presented by the Hispanic Women’s Organization of Arkansas, this fun and free event will feature various talent, food, presentations and much more. Event is from noon until 7 p.m. Downtown Springdale. www.hwoa.org
Equestrian Bridges Mini Derby—May 4
Enjoy live mini horse racing, the Kentucky Derby on a big screen, live music, silent auction, local food trucks, open bar, mint juleps and more. Event is from 4 to 8 p.m. Equestrian Bridges. Rogers. www.equestrianbridges.org
Kentucky Derby Party—May 4
This event will have fancy hats and bow ties, mint juleps and racing — all in support of the Northwest Arkansas Children’s Shelter. Event is from 4 to 7 p.m. Record Downtown. Bentonville. www.nwacs.org
Spring Demolition Derby—May 4
Enjoy a heated competition as drivers face off until the last car is standing. During this fun family night, drivers will compete for cash prizes and bragging rights. Gates open at 5 p.m. Parsons Stadium. Springdale. www.rodeooftheozarks.org
Washington Elementary Tour of Homes—May 4
Help support Washington Elementary School, and learn about architecture, history and design in the process. Purchase tickets online or in person at French Metro Antiques. Tours are self-guided and run anytime between noon to 5 p.m. Fayetteville. www.FayettevilleTourofHomes.com
Hanging Basket Sale—May 9 thru 11
Add a pop of color to your home this spring with a gorgeous hanging basket. With a wide variety of colors and plants, there’s something for everyone — and in perfect time for Mother’s Day. Proceeds support the mission of the Peel Compton Foundation. Peel Museum & Botanical Garden. Bentonville. www.peelcompton.org