Date: August 25th, 2025

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Hey everyone, it's that fresh start to the week where the air feels a bit crisper and the possibilities endless here in our corner of the world. With football season revving up and some incredible art popping up downtown, NWA is feeling more vibrant than ever—perfect for gathering with friends or exploring something new. Brought to you in part by H.G.D. Apparel Co.—your go-to for bold, local style.

In today’s NWA Today:

Daily NWA Trivia: Who holds the Arkansas Razorbacks' record for the most rushing yards in a single football game, and against which team? (Answer at the end of the newsletter)

Let’s dive in!

— Andrew E

Sponsored by H.G.D. Apparel Co.

Fayetteville is bursting with creative energy thanks to two incredible large-scale murals by the globally acclaimed Dutch artist Leon Keer. Known for his mind-bending 3D illusion art, Keer has transformed ordinary urban spaces into magical, immersive experiences that blend reality with fantasy. One mural graces the Fayetteville Public Library parking deck, inviting locals and visitors alike to marvel at optical illusions that play tricks on the eye and spark joy in everyday moments. The other adds a burst of whimsy to the southeastern facade of the town center parking deck, nestled between East Avenue and Rock Street, making commutes a lot more exciting.

What sets the library mural apart is its cool augmented reality twist—simply download Keer's app, scan the artwork, and watch it come alive on your device for interactive fun that's perfect for families or a quick shareable adventure with friends. These pieces are a testament to Fayetteville's commitment to public art that brings people together, ignites imagination, and amps up the downtown atmosphere. As someone who's called NWA home for years, I love how these murals turn routine spots into must-see attractions, echoing the artistic spirit of nearby Eureka Springs while showcasing international talent right here.

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Oak Steakhouse Rogers, a 5,000-square-foot rooftop restaurant by The Indigo Road Hospitality Group, has opened atop the new Hotel Avail in Rogers. Featuring a 124-seat dining area and a 64-seat rooftop terrace, it offers a steakhouse menu led by Executive Chef Josh Keeler, a three-time James Beard nominee. Open nightly with weekend brunch, it aims to enhance community hospitality and employs 61 staff.

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KDK’s Chicken & Waffles, owned by former Razorback and Minnesota Vikings player Keith Kidd, is transitioning from a food truck to its first brick-and-mortar location at 1772 N. College Ave in Fayetteville, opening this fall. Since 2019, Kidd has delighted customers with chicken and waffles, wings, and sandwiches at various city spots and events. The new restaurant will maintain the beloved menu, showcasing entrepreneurial spirit and culinary creativity, while the food truck continues operating Thursdays to Saturdays.

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Rebecca Schaefer has been named an Influential Woman of 2025, celebrated for her leadership in fostering inclusive workplaces. At CrossLink and GlobalMed Logistix, she enhances company culture through innovative events and manages recruitment to improve onboarding. Her commitment inspires NWA professionals, driving operational success and empowering others with her strategic and communicative expertise.

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A multifamily development proposal for owner-occupied housing is set to be presented in downtown Fayetteville, promising to bring sustainable living options to the heart of the city. This forward-thinking project is designed to strengthen community bonds, promote eco-friendly practices, and accommodate the region's growing population with family-oriented spaces. By integrating modern design with local charm, it supports NWA's commitment to vibrant, inclusive urban development that enhances quality of life for residents. It's an exciting step toward a more connected and thriving downtown area.

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Back-to-school shopping is surging across Northwest Arkansas, with families eagerly stocking up on supplies, trendy outfits, and tech gadgets to kick off the academic year on a high note. Local retailers are reporting increased foot traffic, boosting the economy and fostering community spirit through special deals and events. This seasonal excitement not only prepares students for success but also highlights NWA's supportive environment for education and family fun, making it a joyful time for all involved.

Visit

Trivia Night at Flyway Brewing Co. - Flyway Brewing Fayetteville, Fayetteville - 7:00 PM-9:00 PM friendly battle of wits with craft brews, food, and prizes

Trivia Night at Meteor - The Meteor Cafe, Fayetteville - 7:00 PM-9:00 PM "School Night Social" with half-off pies and discounted drafts

Lifewriters Meeting - Shiloh Museum of Ozark History, Springdale - 10:00 AM-12:00 PM creative writing group for autobiographical stories

Fayetteville Farmers Market - Downtown Fayetteville Square, Fayetteville - 7:00 AM-1:00 PM weekly farmers market

Springdale Farmers Market - The Jones Center, Springdale - 7:00 AM-1:00 PM community market

Tour de Coler Weekly Group Ride - Coler Mountain Bike Preserve, Bentonville - Evening weekly Tuesday group mountain bike ride

Social Paint Night - Artists of Northwest Arkansas (ANA) Gallery, Rogers - 5:00 PM-8:00 PM casual evening of creativity and conversation with fellow artists

Moment of Movement - The Momentary, Bentonville - 6:00 PM-7:00 PM wellness event focused on physical activity

Bentonville In Motion (Pilates) - Bentonville - 6:00 PM-8:00 PM community wellness series Pilates-focused event

Terrific Tuesday Nights - Botanical Garden of the Ozarks, Fayetteville - 5:00 PM-7:30 PM free summer series

Trivia Night - Puritan Coffee & Beer, Fayetteville - Evening music, movies, TV, and general knowledge trivia

Little Sprouts at BGO - Botanical Garden of the Ozarks, Fayetteville - 10:00 AM-11:00 AM weekly botanically-themed program for children aged 2-5

Yoga in the Park - Wilson Park, Fayetteville - 6:00 PM-7:00 PM donation-based class for all levels

Poetry Night at Kava Bar - Club 509 at the Kava Bar, Fayetteville - 6:00 PM-8:00 PM free all-ages poetry night

50% Off Pizza Night - Sassafras Springs Vineyard & Winery, Springdale - 4:30 PM-7:30 PM half-priced pizzas with wine purchase

The Arkansas Razorbacks football team is gearing up for their season opener this week, set to face Alabama A&M on Saturday, August 30, at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium with kickoff at 3:15 PM. Excitement is high as the team looks to start strong under head coach Sam Pittman. In other Razorback news, the No. 13 ranked soccer team secured their first win of 2025, powered by newcomers, and will host top-ranked Duke on Thursday, August 28, at 6:00 PM. It's a thrilling time for Hog fans as fall sports ramp up!

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Live Music (Free) * JJ's Grill, Fayetteville | 6:00 PM Start the week with a free show from a local artist while you grab dinner and drinks.

Ice Nine Kills with Dayseeker & Kim Dracula ($) * JJ's Live, Fayetteville | 6:30 PM The "Hell of a Summer Tour" brings a heavy-hitting lineup of metalcore and hard rock, headlined by the theatrical and intense Ice Nine Kills.

Magic Mic Karaoke with Kuri Haus (Free) * The Piano Bar, Fayetteville | 8:00 PM The weekly karaoke tradition continues, offering a stage for aspiring singers and a fun night out for everyone else.

AJJ with Pacing ($) * George's Majestic Lounge, Fayetteville | 8:30 PM Cult-favorite folk-punk band AJJ (formerly Andrew Jackson Jihad) returns to George's, providing a fascinating counter-programming option that speaks to the depth and diversity of NWA's niche music scenes.

Live Music (Free) * JJ's Grill, Fayetteville | 6:00 PM Your go-to spot for free, live, and local music on a Tuesday evening.

Live Jazz with Forte Quartet (Free) * Undercroft Bar, Bentonville | 7:00 PM Another chance to catch the Forte Quartet's sophisticated jazz stylings in the intimate, speakeasy atmosphere of Undercroft.

Train with Edwin McCain ($) * Walmart AMP, Rogers | 8:00 PM Grammy-winning pop-rock band Train brings their catalog of huge hits to the AMP, with iconic singer-songwriter Edwin McCain opening. This pairing is a powerful draw, capitalizing on 90s and 2000s nostalgia.

Briscoe with Miles Miller ($) * George's Majestic Lounge, Fayetteville | 8:30 PM Austin-based indie-folk duo Briscoe brings their rich harmonies and Americana sound to the legendary George's stage.

Live Music (Free) * JJ's Grill, Fayetteville | 6:00 PM The perfect midweek break with free live music from a talented local artist. The consistency of these weekly gigs makes them reliable social hubs for the community.

Karaoke Dance Party Hosted by Chris Kuri (Free) * Tin Roof, Fayetteville | 8:00 PM A special Wednesday edition of the popular karaoke night, giving you another chance to grab the spotlight.

Darren McFadden with 321 yards against South Carolina in 2007!

Check Out the NEW H.G.D. Razorback Line Featuring Darren McFadden inspired Razorback T-Shirts - USE CODE: 20OFF

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

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