Date: August 1st, 2025

TOGETHER WITH H.G.D. Apparel Co

The weekend is here, and NWA is filled with summer energy and good vibes! From the charming Tontitown Grape Festival on the horizon to new eateries popping up and a host of fun gatherings, we're serving up the latest to fuel your inspiration. Get ready for August as we start the month with another great Northwest Arkansas weekend.

In today’s NWA Today:

Daily NWA Trivia: What small town in Northwest Arkansas hosts one of the state's oldest festivals celebrating Italian heritage and grapes? (Answer at the end of the newsletter)

Let’s dive in!

— Andrew E

Get ready to toast to tradition at the 126th annual Tontitown Grape Festival, running from August 5 to 9 along Henri De Tonti Boulevard! This beloved celebration honors the area's Italian roots with a lineup of joyful activities that bring families and friends together. Enjoy free live music featuring talented acts like the Bellamy Brothers, Walker Montgomery, and local favorites such as Funk Factory and Butler Creek Boys. Dive into fun with carnival rides, a lively 5K walk/run, an arts and crafts fair, and classic bingo sessions.

Don't miss the iconic grape stomp, delicious grape ice cream, and hearty spaghetti dinners that capture the festival's warm, community spirit. The event kicks off with the crowning of Queen Concordia, who will oversee the grand prize giveaway on Saturday night. With free entry to the grounds and affordable options for rides and meals, it's an inclusive gathering perfect for creating cherished memories. This historic festival continues to unite NWA in celebration, highlighting our rich heritage and shared joy.

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Excitement builds in NWA as shelters join the 11th Clear the Shelters campaign in August, waiving or halving adoption fees to connect pets with loving homes. Best Friends in Bentonville hosts free adoptions and fun events, while Fayetteville Animal Services offers half-off with fully prepped animals. Eureka Springs, Huntsville, and Bella Vista join in, spreading joy through community compassion.  

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Great Harvest NWA is set to open soon in Bentonville, while ONYX Coffee Lab debuts a new Fayetteville location and Kaleidoscope Cafe prepares to welcome guests in Highfill. These fresh openings add delightful flavors and gathering spots, enhancing community enjoyment across the region.  

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Retired Tyson Foods CEO Noel White and his wife Patty have committed $1 million to Arkansas Children's Northwest, boosting pediatric care in the region. As chairs of the 2025 Gala of Hope, their generous gift will help expand services, bringing smiles and hope to families in Springdale and surrounding areas.  

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Downtown Bentonville's six-story Compton Hotel unveils three exciting eateries: steakhouse Sestina, bar The Eddy, and café Field Notes. These additions elevate local dining, attracting visitors and boosting the area's vibrant hospitality scene.  

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Bentonville's Heartland Forward continues its mission to spark $500 million in economic growth across 20 heartland states by 2030. With Angie Cooper as new CEO and Marc Holley as board chair, the Walton-backed nonprofit emphasizes research, programs, and policies for vibrant communities. This transition promises ongoing innovation and opportunity in NWA.  

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August First Friday: Capital of Cool - Bentonville Square, Bentonville - 3-9pm massive block party downtown takeover

Yards & Yards of Yard Sales - Eureka Springs area - all day treasure hunting time regional event

"Roar & Explore with Dinosaurs" - Scott Family Amazeum, Bentonville - ongoing exhibit traveling show

Fayetteville Farmers' Market - Downtown Square, Fayetteville - 7am-2pm bustling Saturday scene

Springdale Farmers' Market - The Jones Center, Springdale - 7am-1pm community staple

Rogers Farmers' Markets - Frisco Plaza & Champions Drive, Rogers - 8am classic vibes two locations

Bentonville Farmers' & Art Markets - Bentonville Square, Bentonville - 7:30am-3pm over 130 vendors

Song time with Mr. Troy - Lower Ramble, Fayetteville - 10-11am free family fun local favorite

Rogers Historical Spinners Club - Rogers Historical Museum, Rogers - 10am-12pm heritage crafts fiber arts

"You + Me = Play: Fun with Bubbles" - Scott Family Amazeum, Bentonville - 9am little ones interactive workshop

"Art with Heart" Painting Party - Bentonville - time TBA paws & paint cat cafe benefit

Meet & Match Weekend - Best Friends Pet Resource Center, Bentonville - 11am-3pm find your furry friend

Siloam Springs Saturday Farmers' Market - Memorial Park, Siloam Springs - 8am-12pm charming small town

Meet & Match Weekend - Best Friends Pet Resource Center, Bentonville - 11am-3pm more adoptable pets continues

Yards & Yards of Yard Sales - Eureka Springs area - all day final day treasure hunt

The NWA Naturals secured a thrilling 6-4 victory over the Corpus Christi Hooks, highlighted by a massive 501-foot homer. The team continues their homestand with daily specials and themed nights, keeping the energy high at Arvest Ballpark. With high school sports in preseason mode, local teams are gearing up for football practices starting soon. Upcoming games:

Happy Hour: King Chicken ($)
George's Majestic Lounge, Fayetteville | 6:00 PM
Kick off your weekend with funk and soul grooves from King Chicken during happy hour.

Bellwether Sirens, Liquid Courage, Not The Sun ($)
George's Majestic Lounge, Fayetteville | 9:00 PM
Triple rock showcase featuring three distinct bands delivering diverse rock performances.

Straight Tequila Night ($)
JJ's Live, Fayetteville | 8:00 PM
Country tribute celebration with authentic covers and high-energy entertainment.

The Mixtapes with The Phase ($)
Railyard Live, Rogers | 7:30 PM
90s nostalgia trip featuring The Mixtapes with opening act The Phase, celebrating the decade's biggest hits.

Vintage (Free)
Cherokee Casino (Seven), West Siloam Springs, OK | 9:00 PM
Classic rock entertainment featuring Vintage at the casino venue.

Courtyard Sessions with NWA Jazz Society (Free)
The Momentary, Bentonville | 7:00 PM
Community jazz experience featuring the NWA Jazz Society in The Momentary's beautiful outdoor courtyard.

Second Time Around ($)
George's Majestic Lounge, Fayetteville | 8:30 PM
Rock performance at Fayetteville's beloved music venue.

Her Set Her Sound Presents: Her Set Live ($)
Railyard Live, Rogers | 8:00 PM
Electronic music celebration featuring female artists and women in electronic music.

Creed - Summer of '99 Tour ($)
Thunder Ridge Nature Arena, Ridgedale, MO | 7:00 PM
Major rock experience featuring Creed on their Summer of '99 Tour at this stunning outdoor amphitheater.

Stars (Free)
Cherokee Casino (Seven), West Siloam Springs, OK | 9:00 PM
Country and rock performance featuring Stars.

Tontitown

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

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