Date: July 25, 2025

Happy Friday, Northwest Arkansas! 🎉

TOGETHER WITH H.G.D. Apparel Co

It's the start of the weekend, and our NWA is full of exciting things to do! With sunny skies and highs in the low 90s today, it's the perfect weather for exploring bike trails or enjoying a meal at JJ's Grill in Rogers, where their lively atmosphere and delicious comfort food make for a great family outing. From Fayetteville being named the most bike-friendly city in Arkansas to fresh outdoor adventures and business growth, we've got everything to keep you informed and inspired.

In today’s NWA Today:

  • 🚨 Top Story: Return of Bentonville's Pickin' on the Square Event Inspires Local Musicians
    🌟 NWA Digest: Community Bites
    🏪 Local Business: NWA’s Business Buzz
    📅 Upcoming Events: Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers, and Bentonville
    ☀️ Weather: NWA Forecast
    Sports Update: Razorback News

    🍽️ Featured Spot: JJ's Grill Rogers
    🎵 Live Music and Entertainment

Daily NWA Trivia: In which Northwest Arkansas city did Sam Walton open the very first Walmart store in 1962, before establishing the company's headquarters nearby? (Answer at the end of the newsletter)

Let’s dive in!

— Andrew E

Fayetteville Named Most Bike-Friendly City in Arkansas

Fayetteville is celebrating a major win as the most bike-friendly city in Arkansas, according to PeopleForBikes’ 2025 City Ratings. Scoring a impressive 51 out of 100, the city outshines the national average and ranks highly in access to trails, retail, and recreation spots. This achievement highlights Fayetteville's commitment to safe, accessible biking infrastructure, making it easier for families to explore the Razorback Greenway, pedal through the University of Arkansas campus, or enjoy downtown outings.

While scores for access to schools and hospitals have room for growth, the city's top spot encourages more residents to hop on bikes for fun, fitness, and daily commutes. Neighboring Bentonville and Bella Vista follow closely, showcasing Northwest Arkansas as a biking haven. This recognition not only boosts community health and connectivity but also inspires ongoing improvements for a more inclusive outdoor lifestyle. Full details on the rankings are available online, inviting locals to celebrate and participate in this pedal-powered progress.

Buffalo River – Image Courtesy Arkansas Tourism

What’s Good in Our Backyard 🏠

NWA Outdoors Events: Walk, Canoe, and More

Outdoor enthusiasts in Northwest Arkansas can enjoy a variety of fun activities, including a guided walk along the Razorback Greenway in Fayetteville, canoeing and fishing at Crystal Lake near Decatur, stargazing at Hobbs State Park, and fly casting classes in Springdale. These free or low-cost events promote family bonding and nature appreciation.

Northwest Arkansas Football Teams Shine at Media Day

Excitement is building for high school football in Northwest Arkansas as teams gathered for media day at Arvest Ballpark in Springdale. Spotlighting stars like Rogers' Jeff Regan, the 2024 NWA Democrat-Gazette Player of the Year, coaches and athletes shared optimism about teamwork, growth, and community spirit. The event fostered camaraderie among Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers, and Bentonville squads, kicking off a season full of inspiration for fans and young athletes.

Washington and Benton Counties Plan Joint Growth Meeting

Washington and Benton counties will hold a unique joint meeting on September 22 in Springdale to discuss growth strategies, including infrastructure and housing. This collaboration aims to equip NWA communities with tools for sustainable development and shared prosperity.

Beaver Water District Booms with 50% Sales Increase

The Beaver Water District, serving over 450,000 in Northwest Arkansas, reports a 50% sales surge since winter, fueled by regional growth. They're launching the Beaver Believer Program to promote smart water use, like reducing lawn irrigation, while building a new clear well and pipeline. This ensures sustainable supply for expanding communities in Fayetteville, Springdale, and beyond, supporting economic vitality and environmental stewardship.

Springdale Northern Bypass Receives $24.4M Grant

Springdale's Northern Bypass project gets a major lift with a $24.4 million federal BUILD grant, part of a nationwide infrastructure boost. This funding accelerates highway development, enhancing connectivity and economic opportunities in NWA. Local leaders hail it as a win for safer roads and business growth in the bustling region.

Fayetteville Fun

  • Fayetteville Restaurant Week

    • July 25-26, 2025, various times

    • Various restaurants, Fayetteville, AR

    • Special menu offerings, deals, and giveaways at participating local eateries

  • Arkansas Yarn Crawl

    • July 25-26, 2025, various times

    • Various yarn shops, Fayetteville and NWA

    • Family-friendly yarn shop hopping event with special deals, demonstrations, and creative activities

  • Fayetteville Farmers' Market

    • July 24 & 26, 2025, 7:00 AM - 2:00 PM

    • Downtown Square, Fayetteville, AR

    • Fresh produce, crafts, and local goods

  • Dickson Street Mile Race

    • July 26, 2025, 7:00 AM - 10:00 AM

    • Dickson Street, Fayetteville, AR

    • A festive one-mile race with multiple heats for speedsters, strollers, walkers, and even dogs, designed to feel like a parade with engagement and excitement along the course

  • NW Arkansas MESS FEST

    • July 26, 2025, 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

    • Fayetteville area, AR

    • Family-friendly festival with messy, hands-on science and art activities

  • Super Saturday: Momandpop

    • July 26, 2025, 10:00 AM

    • Fayetteville Public Library, Fayetteville, AR

    • Family event featuring engaging activities and community fun at the public library

  • Terrific Tuesday Nights

    • July 29, 2025, 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM

    • Botanical Garden of the Ozarks, 4703 N Crossover Rd, Fayetteville, AR

    • Free family-friendly summer series allowing families to experience the 86-acre botanical garden on beautiful summer evenings, enjoy strolling through themed gardens, visiting the Butterfly House, and picnicking in the garden after regular hours

Springdale Spotlight

  • Springdale Farmers' Market

    • July , 26 & 29, 2025, 7:00 AM - 1:00 PM

    • The Jones Center, 922 E. Emma Avenue, Springdale, AR

    • Community market featuring local produce, honey, eggs, baked goods, and crafts

  • Runway Bike Park

    • Daily, July 25-30, 2025, sunrise to sunset

    • The Jones Center, Springdale, AR

    • Free 2.75-acre bike park open to all ages (helmets required)

  • Yoga at The Winery

    • July 29, 2025, various times

    • Sassafras Springs Vineyard & Winery, 6461 East Guy Terry Road, Springdale, AR

    • Relaxing yoga sessions in a scenic vineyard setting, suitable for all levels

Rogers Rundown

  • Rogers Local Food and Art Market

    • July 26, 2025, 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM

    • Frisco Plaza at Railyard Park, 216 S. 1st Street, Rogers, AR

    • Seasonal weekly farmers market featuring local vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, handmade crafts, and art, where families can enjoy fresh local foods, browse local artisan booths, and experience vibrant community atmosphere in the beautifully renovated downtown park setting

  • Astronomy Night

    • July 26, 2025, 8:00 PM - 11:00 PM

    • Hobbs State Park-Visitor Center, Rogers, AR

    • Stargazing event with telescopes and experts from Sugar Creek Astronomical Society, family-friendly

Bentonville Buzz

  • Bentonville In Motion Series - Yoga

    • July 25-30, 2025, various times (recurring)

    • Various locations, Bentonville, AR

    • Community yoga sessions promoting wellness and movement for all ages

  • Summer Camps for Kids

    • July 23-25, 2025, 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM

    • Crystal Bridges Museum, 600 Museum Way, Bentonville, AR

    • Hands-on art and nature camps for children, fostering creativity and exploration

  • Ethiopian Brunch

    • July 26, 2025, 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM

    • Crown Northwest Bar & Grill, 911 SE 28th St #7, Bentonville, AR

    • Come enjoy amazing food, great drinks, and better vibes at this community brunch event

  • Bentonville Farmers Market

    • July 26, 2025, 7:30 AM - 1:00 PM

    • The Bentonville Square & Benton County Courthouse parking lot, Bentonville, AR

    • Weekly farmers market featuring fresh, locally grown produce, fruits, vegetables, baked goods, and artisan crafts with over 130 local farmers and vendors participating, where families can shop for farm-fresh ingredients and connect with area farmers in a vibrant community atmosphere

  • Bentonville Art Market

    • July 26, 2025, 7:30 AM - 3:00 PM

    • The Bentonville Square, Main Street, Bentonville, AR

    • Weekly outdoor market featuring local artists, crafters, and artisans selling unique, handmade items like original art, crafts, jewelry, pottery, and more alongside the Farmers Market, perfect for families to discover one-of-a-kind treasures while supporting local artists

  • KAWS: FAMILY Exhibition

    • Ongoing through July 28, 2025, various times

    • Crystal Bridges Museum, 600 Museum Way, Bentonville, AR

    • Major solo exhibition debut featuring KAWS' drawings, paintings, sculptures, altered advertisements, and product collaborations, exploring complex family dynamics through the artist's iconic characters, perfect for families interested in contemporary art

  • Summer Fun at the Plaza: Bubble Party

    • July 26, 2025, 11:00 AM

    • Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, 600 Museum Way, Bentonville, AR

    • Activity involving a bubble party for family fun and engagement

  • Crystal Bridges Museum - Free Exhibits

    • Daily, July 25-30, 2025, museum hours

    • Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, 600 Museum Way, Bentonville, AR

    • World-class museum with free general admission featuring Yayoi Kusama Flowers on Orchard Trail, Foundations of American Art Gallery, The Art of Whole Health, and James Turrell's Skyspace, including 134 acres of Ozark forest trails with outdoor sculptures perfect for family exploration

Eureka Springs

  • 5th Anniversary Raven Show

    • July 25-30, 2025, various times (ongoing)

    • Gotahold Brewing, 409 W Van Buren, Eureka Springs, AR

    • Collection of raven-themed art by local artists, family-friendly viewing

  • Silence In The Jungle

    • July 25, 2025, various times

    • Melonlight Theater, 2 Pine St, Eureka Springs, AR

    • An intimate live theater experience created to ignite your imagination and transport you to another world, following characters on a jungle river journey in 1936, with seating in a beautiful historic ballroom

  • Eureka Springs Farmers Market

    • July 29, 2025, 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM

    • Pine Mountain Village, 2075 E. Van Buren St., Eureka Springs, AR

    • Weekly farmers market featuring locally grown produce, farm-fresh items, baked goods, and arts & crafts, where families can explore local products while enjoying Eureka Springs' unique mountain community atmosphere

  • Eureka Springs Cemetery Tours

    • July 26, 2025, 11:00 AM

    • Eureka Springs Cemetery, Eureka Springs, AR

    • Family-friendly guided historical tours sharing stories of past residents

  • Second Summer Studio Stroll at ESSA

    • July 26, 2025, 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM

    • Eureka Springs School of the Arts, 15751 Hwy 62 West, Eureka Springs, AR

    • Free event to explore campus, meet teaching artists, and view works in progress

  • Hatha Yoga with Susan

    • July 26, 2025, 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM

    • Various locations, Eureka Springs, AR

    • Gentle yoga classes for relaxation and wellness, open to all levels

Farmington

  • Farmington Farmers Market

    • July 26, 2025, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM

    • Creekside Park, Broyles Entrance, Farmington, AR

    • Fresh produce and artisan crafts available every Saturday

  • Planning Commission Meeting

    • July 28, 2025, 6:00 PM

    • City Hall, Farmington, AR

    • Community meeting to discuss local planning and development matters

☀️ Weather: NWA Forecast

  • Friday, July 25: 94/73 °F | Sunny ☀️ | 10% | S 8 mph

  • Saturday, July 26: 92/72 °F | Partly Cloudy ⛅ | 20% | SW 7 mph

  • Sunday, July 27: 95/74 °F | Sunny ☀️ | 5% | SE 6 mph

The NWA Naturals are in the heat of their baseball season, with recent wins showcasing strong pitching and hitting. High school football is kicking off with media day highlights, setting the stage for exciting matchups. Upcoming games:

  • NWA Naturals vs. Tulsa Drillers: July 25, 7:05 PM, Arvest Ballpark

  • NWA Naturals vs. Tulsa Drillers: July 26, 6:05 PM, Arvest Ballpark

  • NWA Naturals vs. Tulsa Drillers: July 27, 2:05 PM, Arvest Ballpark

July 25, 2025

  • Gregory Alan Isakov ($)

    • Time: 8:00 PM

    • Location: The Momentary (Momentary Green), 507 SE E St, Bentonville, AR 72712

    • Description: Immerse yourself in the beautiful, melancholic folk music of Gregory Alan Isakov. His captivating lyrics and intricate melodies, performed on the scenic Momentary Green, will create a truly special outdoor concert experience.

  • Happy Hour Concert with Full House ($)

    • Time: 6:00 PM (Doors 5:00 PM)

    • Location: George's Majestic Lounge, 519 W Dickson St, Fayetteville, AR 72701

    • Description: Kick off your weekend with the classic rock and pop covers of Full House. This happy hour show is a Fayetteville tradition and a guaranteed good time.

  • Drezus with Jordan Polovina ($)

    • Time: 8:00 PM (Doors 7:00 PM)

    • Location: Meteor Guitar Gallery, 128 W Central Ave, Bentonville, AR 72712

    • Description: Known for his powerful presence and socially charged lyrics, Drezus delivers high-energy hip-hop fused with Indigenous storytelling. With support from rising star Jordan Polovina, this promises to be an intimate and electric night.

  • Copper Flats

    • Time: 6:30 PM

    • Location: Chautauqua Amphitheater at Memorial Park, 205 E Jefferson St, Siloam Springs, AR 72761

    • Description: Enjoy the country-rock vibes of Copper Flats as part of the 4th Friday festivities in Siloam Springs. This new trio, featuring members with extensive Nashville and touring experience, brings a fresh sound to the free Memorial Park Music Series.

  • The Swade Diablos

    • Time: 9:00 PM

    • Location: Seven (at Cherokee Casino), 2416 US-412, West Siloam Springs, OK 74338

    • Description: Catch a free performance from The Swade Diablos at the casino. Their rock and roll energy is sure to make for an exciting Friday night.

July 26, 2025

  • Kansas & .38 Special ($)

    • Time: 6:15 PM

    • Location: Walmart AMP, 5079 W Northgate Rd, Rogers, AR 72758

    • Description: Two classic rock powerhouses, Kansas and .38 Special, share the stage for a night of legendary hits, along with The Outlaws. From progressive rock anthems to southern rock flair, this concert is a journey through rock and roll history.

  • Shemekia Copeland ($)

    • Time: 8:00 PM (Doors 7:30 PM)

    • Location: The Momentary (RØDE House), 507 SE E St, Bentonville, AR 72712

    • Description: Award-winning blues, soul, and Americana vocalist Shemekia Copeland delivers a powerful and moving performance. Experience her commanding voice and incredible stage presence in the intimate RØDE House.

  • Mark Currey ($)

    • Time: 7:00 PM (Dinner at 6:00 PM)

    • Location: Magnolia House Listening Room, 151 E Buchanan St, Prairie Grove, AR 72753

    • Description: Enjoy a three-course meal followed by an intimate, unplugged performance from songwriter Mark Currey. The Magnolia House provides a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for connecting with heartfelt music.

  • Sofie and The New Relics ($)

    • Time: 7:00 PM

    • Location: Meteor Guitar Gallery, 128 W Central Ave, Bentonville, AR 72712

    • Description: The ACMA Young Artist of the Year award-winning band, Sofie & The New Relics, brings their fresh take on country music to Bentonville. With vocals that draw comparisons to Dolly Parton, this is a show country fans won't want to miss.

  • Holly Crays

    • Time: 6:00 PM

    • Location: Gotahold Brewing, 409 W Van Buren, Eureka Springs, AR 72632

    • Description: Enjoy a live performance by Holly Crays at Gotahold Brewing. Her music provides the perfect soundtrack for a summer evening in Eureka Springs.

  • Rachel B & Table for Three

    • Time: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

    • Location: Sassafras Springs Vineyard, 6461 E Guy Terry Rd, Springdale, AR 72764

    • Description: Spend a delightful evening with the captivating sounds of Rachel B & Table for Three. Their performance provides the perfect ambiance for a summer night at the beautiful Sassafras Springs Vineyard.

  • Dead Metal Society

    • Time: 9:00 PM

    • Location: Seven (at Cherokee Casino), 2416 US-412, West Siloam Springs, OK 74338

    • Description: Get ready to rock with Dead Metal Society, a tribute to the best of 80s metal. This free show at the casino is perfect for headbangers and fans of classic hard rock.

July 30, 2025

  • Jesus "Aguaje" Ramos & the Buena Vista Orchestra ($)

    • Time: 8:00 PM (Doors 7:00 PM)

    • Location: JJ's Live, 3615 N Steele Blvd, Fayetteville, AR 72704

    • Description: Celebrate the timeless rhythms of Cuban music with Jesus "Aguaje" Ramos and the Buena Vista Orchestra. This vibrant performance brings joy, danceable beats, and the legacy of the Buena Vista Social Club to life in an uplifting evening of world music.

JJ's Grill Rogers

JJ's Grill in Rogers is buzzing with its casual vibe and mouthwatering menu of burgers, wings, and live music nights. Perfect for families, it offers a welcoming space to enjoy local flavors and community gatherings. Recent updates highlight their expanded patio for outdoor dining, making it a go-to spot for weekend fun in NWA.

NWA TRIVIA ANSWER:

Rogers (The original Walmart opened in Rogers, though the headquarters soon moved to neighboring Bentonville, sparking the region's retail boom.)

Check out our website for more helpful NWA Tips - www.nwatoday.com 

💬 Your Turn!

Got a favorite spot in town or an event we missed? Email us at [email protected]—this is our newsletter!

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