Date: June 30, 2025

Happy Monday, Northwest Arkansas! 🎉

TOGETHER WITH H.G.D. Apparel Co.

It’s the start of the week, and Northwest Arkansas is gearing up to celebrate the 4th of July! From NWA’s recognition as a top business destination to the best dining options and a packed events calendar, we’ve got everything you need to stay informed and make the most of your week ahead. Brought to you in part by H.G.D. Apparel Co.—your go-to for bold, local style.

In today’s NWA Today:

  • 🚨 Top Story: NWA Ranks No. 6 in Best Business Climate

  • 🌟 NWA Digest: Community Bites

  • 🏪 Local Business: NWA’s Business Buzz

  • 📅 Upcoming Events: Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers, and Bentonville

  • 🏫 Civil & Educational News: What’s Shaping NWA

  • ☀️ Weather: NWA Forecast

  • 🏈 Sports: NWA’s Game Highlights

  • 🍽️ Featured Spot: Venesian Inn

  • 🎵 Live Music and Entertainment

Daily NWA Trivia: What is the oldest park in Fayetteville? (Answer at the end of Newsletter)

Let’s dive in!

— Andrew E

NWA Ranks No. 6 in Best Business Climate

Northwest Arkansas has secured the No. 6 spot in Business Facilities' 2025 Best Business Climate rankings, showcasing the region’s robust economic growth and collaborative spirit. The Northwest Arkansas Council has been instrumental in fostering a business-friendly environment, attracting talent and investment nationwide. With a low cost of living, access to top-tier educational institutions, and a high quality of life, NWA is a magnet for startups and established companies alike. This accolade highlights the region’s strategic efforts to drive innovation and prosperity, ensuring a bright future for businesses and residents.

What’s Good in Our Backyard 🏠

Volunteers Make a Difference with Ozark Mission Project

Volunteers with the Ozark Mission Project are making a difference in communities across Arkansas, including Northwest Arkansas. This faith-based organization engages students and volunteers in service projects like painting houses and building wheelchair ramps, while also fostering spiritual growth through daily devotionals and worship services. Many participants report transformative experiences that shape their lives and even lead some to pursue full-time ministry.

Sam’s Club Expands with New Services

Sam’s Club, a cornerstone of NWA’s retail scene, is driving growth with a bold strategy that includes pizza delivery and sushi offerings. With plans to open 30 new clubs over the next five years and double sales and membership in a decade, the retailer is enhancing convenience and fresh food options, boosting the local economy and customer experience.

Rodeo of the Ozarks Thrills Springdale

The 81st Rodeo of the Ozarks, held June 25-28, brought excitement to Springdale with thrilling performances and community spirit. Highlights included the crowning of Taylor Priest as the 2025 Miss Rodeo of the Ozarks and a vibrant parade down Emma Avenue. The event drew crowds for family-friendly entertainment, showcasing the region’s western heritage.

Civic Update: Counties to Take Over Zoning Authority

As of July 1, counties in Northwest Arkansas will assume responsibility for zoning and code enforcement in unincorporated areas adjacent to city limits. This move is expected to enhance regional planning and development, providing a unified approach to land use and building codes. City and county officials have been meeting to discuss the implications and ensure a seamless transition. The change is part of a broader effort to support the area’s rapid growth and maintain high standards for community development.

Educational Update: Fayetteville Schools Explore AI Integration

The Fayetteville School Board is exploring the future of technology in education, specifically the role of artificial intelligence (AI). In a recent meeting, the board reviewed an AI Guidance Plan developed in collaboration with the ILO Group. Survey results from 2,500 stakeholders indicate that while there is openness to AI, a cautious and phased approach is preferred. The district aims to implement AI solutions that enhance operations, support educators, and improve student learning, all while ensuring responsible use and protecting the learning environment.

Fayetteville Fun

Fayetteville Farmers’ Market

  • Date & Time: July 1, 2025, 7:00 AM - 1:00 PM

  • Location: Downtown Square, Fayetteville, AR

  • Description: A vibrant market offering fresh produce, crafts, and local goods, perfect for families to explore and support local vendors.

Live Music at George's Majestic Lounge

  • Date & Time: July 3, 2025, 8:00 PM

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

  • Description: King Falcon with Garden Snakes performing live, offering an energetic music experience for all ages.

Live Music at George's Majestic Lounge

  • Date & Time: July 4, 2025, 6:00 PM

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

  • Description: Happy Hour Concert with Jenna & the Soul Shakers, providing a family-friendly musical evening.

Live Music at George's Majestic Lounge

  • Date & Time: July 4, 2025, 9:00 PM

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

  • Description: Everything Is Terrible! + Memory Hole - Animals Are Over, a unique performance suitable for older audiences.

Springdale Spotlight

Springdale Farmers’ Market

  • Date & Time: July 1, 2025, 7:00 AM - 1:00 PM

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

  • Description: A community market featuring local produce, honey, eggs, baked goods, and crafts, ideal for family outings.

Springdale Farmers’ Market

  • Date & Time: July 3, 2025, 7:00 AM - 1:00 PM

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

  • Description: A community market featuring local produce, honey, eggs, baked goods, and crafts, ideal for family outings.

4th at the Field

  • Date & Time: July 4, 2025, game at 7:05 PM, fireworks after

  • Location: Arvest Ballpark, 3000 Gene George Blvd, Springdale, AR

  • Description: Enjoy a baseball game followed by a fireworks display, perfect for families celebrating Independence Day.

Rogers Rundown

Food Trucks & Fireworks

  • Date & Time: July 2, 2025, 7:00 PM

  • Location: 1001 W Price Ln, Rogers, AR

  • Description: An evening of food trucks and fireworks, great for families looking for a festive outing.

July 4th Fireworks Spectacular with Symphony

  • Date & Time: July 4, 2025, doors at 7:00 PM

  • Location: Walmart AMP, Rogers, AR

  • Description: A patriotic symphony concert by the Symphony of Northwest Arkansas followed by fireworks, ideal for family celebrations.

Live Music at Railyard Live

  • Date & Time: July 4, 2025, 6:00 PM

  • Location: Railyard Park, Downtown Rogers, AR

  • Description: Ozark Folk Jamboree featuring The Spooklights, offering a free, family-friendly music event.

Bentonville Buzz

First Friday: Land of the Free

  • Date & Time: July 4, 2025, afternoon

  • Location: Downtown Square, Bentonville, AR

  • Description: A Fourth of July celebration with music, dancing, local vendors, and free activities, perfect for families.

Evening at Orchards Park

  • Date & Time: July 4, 2025, music at 7:00 PM, fireworks at 9:30 PM

  • Location: Orchards Park, Bentonville, AR

  • Description: Live music and a fireworks display to celebrate Independence Day, welcoming all ages.

Other Local Events

Eureka Springs: Jamboreeka

  • Date & Time: July 4, 2025, 5:00 PM

  • Location: Lake Leatherwood City Park, Eureka Springs, AR

  • Description: A celebration with live music, food, beer, water games, and fireworks, ideal for families.

Gentry: Freedom Fest

  • Date & Time: July 4, 2025, 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM

  • Location: Gentry City Park, Gentry, AR

  • Description: Includes a car show, live music, pageants, vendor booths, food, and fireworks, perfect for family fun.

Farmington: City of Farmington Fireworks

  • Date & Time: July 4, 2025, at dusk

  • Location: Randall G. Lynch Middle School, Farmington, AR

  • Description: A fireworks display to celebrate Independence Day, suitable for families.

☀️ Weather: NWA Forecast

  • Monday, June 30: 92°F / 72°F | ⛅ | 20% | 💨 S 10 mph

  • Tuesday, July 1: 94°F / 74°F | ☀️ | 10% | 💨 SW 8 mph

  • Wednesday, July 2: 93°F / 73°F | 🌦️ | 40% | 💨 W 7 mph

July 1, 2025

  • Old Time Jam & Square Dance - 6:00 PM, Ozark Folkways, Winslow - A free community event hosted by Pete Howard & Steve & Joanie Green. The music jam starts at 6 p.m., followed by a square dance at 7 p.m.

  • Juan Moscoso at Six Twelve - 7:00 PM, Six Twelve Coffeehouse & Bar, Fayetteville - Enjoy an evening of original flamenco, classical, and jazz-inspired tunes from guitarist Juan Moscoso at this local-supporting venue.

July 2, 2025

  • Ben Harris at Six Twelve - 5:30 PM, Six Twelve Coffeehouse & Bar, Fayetteville - A weekly performance by local musician Ben Harris at one of Fayetteville's most consistent venues for live, local music.

  • Karaoke Dance Party Hosted by Chris Kuri - 8:00 PM, Tin Roof Fayetteville - Take the main stage and sing your heart out at this weekly karaoke dance party.

July 3, 2025

  • Soulja Boy - 8:00 PM, Seven (Cherokee Casino), West Siloam Springs, OK - Hip-hop artist Soulja Boy brings his chart-topping hits and viral energy to the Seven venue for a special holiday weekend performance.

  • King Falcon with Garden Snakes - 8:00 PM (Doors 7:00 PM), George's Majestic Lounge, Fayetteville - Kick off the holiday weekend with a rock show at Fayetteville's legendary George's Majestic Lounge.

  • Jazz Night: Special UARK Gospel Jam Night - 7:00 PM, The Music Depot, Bentonville - Music Moves presents a special edition of their jazz night, featuring a gospel jam with University of Arkansas musicians.

  • Mauve / Allen Mp3 - 8:45 PM, Tin Roof Fayetteville - It's Cup Night Thursday with live rock from Mauve on the main stage and DJ Allen Mp3 spinning in the Green Room.

NWA TRIVIA ANSWER:

Wilson Park

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

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