Date: September 10th, 2025

TOGETHER WITH H.G.D. Apparel Co.

Hey there, neighbors—midweek already has that fresh Ozark energy rolling in, with cooler breezes whispering through the hills and a lineup of community gems that remind us why NWA feels like home sweet home. Get ready to tune into Fayetteville's big win hosting a global music summit that's set to harmonize our local music scene, not to mention welcoming bashes and shiny new spots for our seniors to thrive. We've got literary launches and other big story wins that are lighting up the region, all while gearing up for some Razorback action that'll have us cheering loud this Saturday.

In today’s NWA Today:

Daily NWA Trivia: What pivotal Civil War battle in Northwest Arkansas, fought in March 1862, helped secure Missouri for the Union and featured innovative tactics like the use of artillery on high ground? (Answer at the end of the newsletter)

Let’s dive in!

— Andrew E

Sponsored by H.G.D. Apparel Co.

In a music milestone that's got our hearts singing, Fayetteville snags the spotlight as host of the 2025 Music Cities Convention, marking its 10th anniversary and debut in Arkansas from September 16-18. Over 300 music mavens from around the planet will converge at the Fayetteville Town Center and Library, diving into how tunes fuel economic boosts, shape city souls, and knit communities closer. Brought to life by Experience Fayetteville and Music Cities Events, the lineup boasts insightful talks, hands-on workshops, electrifying performances, and prime networking spots, culminating in the global Music Cities Awards during Arkansas Music Week. As preparations amp up, NWA's ready to showcase its creative pulse, proving we're a hub where innovation and inclusion hit all the right notes, inspiring visitors and locals alike to celebrate what makes our corner of the world so rhythmically rich.

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Downtown Fayetteville lights up this Sunday, September 14, for the third annual Welcome Fayetteville event, a free bash tying into Welcoming Week NWA that links folks with city services in a playful setting. Expect games, goodies, face art, and chats with department teams, all aimed at making newcomers feel right at home in our inclusive haven.

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Springdale seniors are beaming after the September 9 ribbon-cutting for their sparkling new 40,000-square-foot Senior Center, a $14 million gem from 2023 bonds boasting a pro kitchen, fitness zone, pickleball indoors, salon, and social nooks. Embracing the "You rest, you rust" ethos, it's a vibrant spot encouraging active, bonded living in our growing community.

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Bentonville's Ledger building hosts the inaugural NWA Book Fest on September 27, a no-cost celebration spotlighting area writers with signings, discussions, and kid-friendly reads spanning genres from stories to strips. This fresh tradition honors our expanding bookish world, inviting all ages to revel in words and wonder.

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Benton County tops the charts with a whopping 14.6% spike in average weekly wages for Q1 2025, eclipsing the U.S. 4.1% average, thanks largely to a $860 weekly leap in professional services. This surge underscores our competitive job scene and expanding enterprises, with Washington County also enjoying healthy gains—uplifting workers and fueling regional vitality.

Visit

Fayetteville's go-to concert spot, formerly JJ’s Live, emerges anew as Ozark Music Hall after a fan-picked rebrand that nods to our local essence. The 2,000-seater on North Steele Boulevard boasts fresh upgrades like bigger bathrooms, bars, better views, and artist perks, evolving from its 2017 beer garden roots to deliver top-tier shows in a polished setting for music lovers.

Visit

Little Sprouts at BGO - Botanical Garden of the Ozarks, Fayetteville - 10:00 AM-11:00 AM children's program

Yoga in the Park - Wilson Park, Fayetteville - 6:00 PM-7:00 PM weekly yoga

Eureka Springs Jeep Jam - Various locations, Eureka Springs - All Day (runs through Sep 14) 5th annual event with "Pre Jeep Jam Howdy Dinner" and weekend of trail rides, parades, and community fun

Art on the Bricks Art Walk - Throughout Downtown Rogers, Rogers - 4:30-7:30 PM monthly showcase of regional artists with pop-up galleries and live music

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

Eureka Springs Farmers Market - Eureka Springs Community Center, Eureka Springs - 8:00 AM-1:00 PM weekly market

BSB MTB Social Group Ride - The Hub Bike Lounge, Bentonville - 6:00 PM social ride

Eureka Springs Jeep Jam continues - Eureka Springs - All Day registration party and entertainment at Pine Mountain, plus Jeep Night Light Cruise

Welcoming Week NWA Kick-Off - NWA-Wide, Various locations - All Day (runs through Sep 21) regional initiative to build connections among neighbors through events at schools, libraries, and community centers

As the Razorbacks head into their SEC opener against No. 17 Ole Miss on September 13 at 6 p.m. in Vaught-Hemingway Stadium, motivation runs high after last year's tough 63-31 setback. Coach Sam Pittman emphasizes resilience, with standouts like edge rusher Landon Lee (7 tackles, 1.5 sacks early) and transfer Mike Washington Jr. bringing explosive plays. The Hogs, holding a 38-30-1 series edge, aim to counter the Rebels' potent offense led by QB Austin Simmons, focusing on defensive clamps and offensive firepower in this pivotal road clash. Fans anticipate a gritty performance showcasing Arkansas' growth and spirit.

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Unwound ($) * The Momentary, Bentonville | 7:00 PM Post-hardcore legends Unwound bring their highly anticipated reunion tour to The Momentary for a rare and powerful performance.

Karaoke Dance Party with Chris Kuri (Free) * Tin Roof, Fayetteville | 8:00 PM Another chance to grab the spotlight at this popular midweek karaoke night on Dickson Street.

Karaoke at JJ's Dickson (Free) * JJ's Grill on Dickson, Fayetteville | 8:00 PM The weekly karaoke tradition continues, offering a stage for aspiring singers and a fun night out for everyone else.

OBS Blues Jam (Free) * The Music Depot, Rogers| 6:30 PM Join the Ozark Blues Society for a community jam session open to all blues lovers and musicians.

Tyler Hubbard ($) * Ozark Music Hall, Fayetteville | 7:00 PM The multi-platinum selling songwriter and co-founder of Florida Georgia Line steps into the spotlight with his successful solo country act, joined by Canaan Smith.

AMP Up the Arts featuring Boyz II Men ($) * Walmart AMP, Rogers | 8:30 PM The iconic R&B vocal group performs their timeless harmonies and classic hits at this special benefit concert for arts education in the community.

Reece Gustafson (Free) * Tin Roof, Fayetteville | 9:45 PM This high-energy country and rock band will keep you dancing all night long with their electrifying tunes.

Happy Hour: Ultra Suede (Free) * George's Majestic Lounge, Fayetteville | 6:00 PM Kick off the weekend with the best 90s rock covers from local favorites Ultra Suede during this free happy hour show.

Erin Detherage (Free) * Sassafras Springs Vineyard and Winery, Springdale | 6:00 PM Enjoy a relaxing evening of live folk and pop music in a beautiful winery setting with a performance from Erin Detherage.

Live Music at Jammin Java (Free) * Jammin Java, Fayetteville | 6:00 PM Another great night of free, local music in the heart of downtown Fayetteville.

Grupo Musical La Maquina y Sensacion Latina (Free) * Railyard Live, Rogers | 8:00 PM Get ready to dance with the vibrant rhythms of these two Latin bands at this free community concert in downtown Rogers.

Joe Nichols ($) * Ozark Music Hall, Fayetteville | 8:00 PM A veteran of the country charts, Joe Nichols delivers a night of classic hits and traditional country charm, with support from Copper Flats.

Latin Weekend: Live Salsa Night ($) * The Music Depot, Rogers| 8:00 PM Kick off a weekend of Latin music and dance with a high-energy salsa night.

Flipoff Pirates & The Magnificent Mullets ($) * George's Majestic Lounge, Fayetteville | 8:30 PM Following happy hour, George's hosts a full night of fun with two of the region's most entertaining rock party bands.

The Battle of Pea Ridge, also known as the Battle of Elkhorn Tavern, where Union forces under General Samuel Curtis defeated Confederate troops led by Earl Van Dorn.

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

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