Date: July 23, 2025

Happy Wednesday, Northwest Arkansas! 🎉

TOGETHER WITH H.G.D. Apparel Co

Another beautiful Wednesday here in NWA, where creativity and community spirit are soaring higher than ever! From the inspiring return of Bentonville's Pickin' on the Square, igniting local musicians' passions, to heartwarming initiatives and vibrant gatherings, we're celebrating all the joyful moments that make our region shine.

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
    🎵 Live Music and Entertainment

Daily NWA Trivia: What is the name of the historic mill near Rogers that hosts one of the oldest craft fairs in the Ozarks? (Answer at the end of the newsletter)

Let’s dive in!

— Andrew E

Return of Bentonville's Pickin' on the Square Event Inspires Local Musicians

In a heartwarming revival, Bentonville's beloved Pickin' on the Square event is making a return, delighting the community with live music and fostering a new generation of artists in Northwest Arkansas. Local musicians express immense joy over this tradition's comeback, noting its role in nurturing talent and bringing families together under the stars.

The free monthly gatherings feature bluegrass, folk, and acoustic performances, creating an inclusive space where aspiring young players can jam alongside seasoned pros. Organizers emphasize the positive impact on cultural vibrancy, with events drawing crowds to the downtown square for picnics, dancing, and shared stories. This resurgence not only celebrates the region's rich musical heritage but also boosts local businesses through increased foot traffic.

What’s Good in Our Backyard 🏠

Families Rally with Lemonade Stands for NWA Children's Shelter

Families across NWA are hosting lemonade stands to raise funds for the Northwest Arkansas Children's Shelter's new foster care initiative. This fun community effort teaches kids about giving back while supporting vulnerable children. With partnerships amplifying the impact, every cup sold helps create safe havens and brighter futures, showcasing NWA's spirit of compassion and inclusion.

Arkansas Yarn Crawl Kicks Off in NWA

Fiber arts enthusiasts are flocking to Northwest Arkansas for the 2025 Arkansas Yarn Crawl, visiting charming shops in Fayetteville and Bentonville from July 18-26. This fun event offers prizes, tote bags, and a passport system to encourage exploration of local yarn stores, fostering creativity and community connections among knitters and crocheters.

SOAR NWA Returns with High-Flying Fun

Get ready for SOAR NWA 2025, returning to Benton County Fairgrounds, Bentonville, AR, with hot air balloon glows, tethered rides, a kid zone, circus performers, live music, car exhibit, and more, from 5-10 p.m. Enjoy inclusive fun for all ages, with proceeds supporting Open Avenues, aiding employment for people with disabilities.

Startup Junkie Hosts July Happy Hour

Northwest Arkansas entrepreneurs, veterans, and first responders are invited to a lively happy hour at the Stonebreaker Hotel, connecting over brews and ideas. This inclusive gathering boosts networking and celebrates local innovation, fostering collaborations that drive growth and community spirit in the region.

Arkansas Unemployment Holds Steady with Job Gains

Arkansas maintains a strong economy with its unemployment rate steady at 3.7%, marking four months of stability. Significant year-over-year gains include 11,000 jobs in education and health services, plus increases in trade and transportation. This positive trend reflects resilience and growth, benefiting families across Northwest Arkansas by creating more opportunities in key sectors.

Fayetteville Fun

  • Fayetteville Restaurant Week

    • July 23-26, 2025, various times

    • Various restaurants, Fayetteville, AR

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

  • Arkansas Yarn Crawl

    • July 23-26, 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 23, 24 & 26, 2025, 7:00 AM - 2:00 PM

    • Downtown Square, Fayetteville, AR

    • Fresh produce, crafts, and local goods

  • Little Sprouts at BGO

    • July 23, 2025, various times

    • Botanical Garden of the Ozarks, Fayetteville, AR

    • Fun, educational activities for young children exploring nature and gardens

  • 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

  • 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

  • The Star on Spring Hotel Grand Opening

    • July 23, 2025, opening day

    • 101 Spring Street, Downtown Springdale, AR

    • Grand opening of Springdale's first boutique hotel in a beautifully restored 1920s Art Deco building, representing a major milestone in downtown Springdale's revitalization, where families can explore this historic transformation and nearby downtown attractions

  • Shiloh Museum Program

    • July 23, 2025, 6:30 PM

    • Shiloh Museum of Ozark History, 118 W. Johnson Ave., Springdale, AR

    • Educational program on local Ozark history, available in-person or via Zoom

  • Springdale Farmers' Market

    • July 24, 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 23-30, 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

  • Morning Beaver Lake Kayak Tour

    • July 23, 2025, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

    • Hobbs State Park, Rogers, AR

    • Guided kayak tour on Beaver Lake, great for nature enthusiasts and families

  • Monument Trail Tabletop

    • July 24, 2025, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

    • Hobbs State Park, Rogers, AR

    • Engaging tabletop activity exploring forest objects and trails, ideal for learning about nature

  • 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

  • Dress Up, Speak Up: Regalia and Resistance

    • July 23, 2025, various times

    • Compton Gardens and Arboretum, Bentonville, AR

    • Interactive exhibit and activities focused on cultural regalia and history, suitable for families

  • Bentonville In Motion Series - Yoga

    • July 23-30, 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

  • Cocktail Tour: The Art of KAWS

    • July 24, 2025, 6:00 PM

    • Crystal Bridges Museum, Bentonville, AR

    • Guided tour exploring KAWS artwork with themed discussions, family-oriented (non-alcoholic options available)

  • 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

  • Crystal Bridges Museum - Free Exhibits

    • Daily, July 23-30, 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 23-30, 2025, various times (ongoing)

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

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

  • Eureka Springs Farmers Market

    • July 24 & 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

  • Wednesday, July 23: 92/72 °F | ☀️ | 10% | S 5 mph

  • Thursday, July 24: 94/73 °F | ⛅ | 20% | SW 8 mph

  • Friday, July 25: 91/71 °F | 🌦️ | 30% | SE 6 mph

Razorback Update

The Arkansas Razorbacks have celebrated several recent achievements. John Daly II, a rising senior, won the 119th Southern Amateur with a final-round 68, finishing at 278 (-10) at The Blessings Golf Club, while Thomas Curry and Camden Smith tied for third, with Smith securing third via a playoff. In football, Fernando Carmona, Devin Bale, and Cam Ball earned Preseason All-SEC honors from media at SEC Football Media Days. Additionally, Jacob Skov Olesen leads the 153rd The Open Championship after an opening-round 67. Looking ahead, three #ProHogs—Danielle Gibson Whorton, Bri Ellis, and Mariah Lopez—will compete in the inaugural Athletes Unlimited Softball League Championship Series on July 26-28 in Tuscaloosa, Ala.

Kevin Trainor Joins Arkansas Alumni Association as COO

Kevin Trainor has been named COO and associate executive director of the Arkansas Alumni Association, bringing his expertise to enhance outreach and programs starting August 2025. His role will focus on strengthening alumni connections through events, communications, and digital initiatives, benefiting the University of Arkansas community in Fayetteville and beyond with enriched engagement.

July 23, 2025

  • Dime Store Riot and Zimmeroo ($)

    • Time: 8:00 PM (Doors 7:00 PM)

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

    • Description: Catch a double bill of rock featuring Dime Store Riot and Zimmeroo. This show promises an energetic night of original music in Bentonville's intimate Meteor Guitar Gallery.

July 24, 2025

  • Little Big Town with Carly Pearce & Carter Faith ($)

    • Time: 7:00 PM

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

    • Description: Grammy-winning country group Little Big Town performs their beloved harmonies and hits, with support from Carly Pearce and Carter Faith. This stellar lineup guarantees a fantastic night of modern and classic country music.

  • Yelawolf - 45 Tour ($)

    • Time: 8:00 PM

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

    • Description: Southern rapper Yelawolf brings his distinctive style, rapid-fire delivery, and high-energy performance to JJ's Live on his 45 Tour. Expect a genre-bending show that fuses hip-hop with rock and country influences.

  • School of Rock AllStars Tour ($)

    • Time: 6:30 PM (Doors 6:00 PM)

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

    • Description: Support the next generation of rock stars as the School of Rock AllStars, featuring top students from across the country, take the stage. The local Bentonville House Band will also perform, making for a fun and inspiring evening of music.

  • King Cabbage Brass Band

    • Time: 7:00 PM

    • Location: Gulley Park Gazebo, 1420 N Gregg Ave, Fayetteville, AR 72703

    • Description: Enjoy the lively sounds of King Cabbage Brass Band as part of Fayetteville's free Gulley Park Summer Concert Series. This family-friendly outdoor event brings joyful brass music and community vibes to the park on a summer evening.

  • Morgan Squared

    • Time: 10:00 PM

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

    • Description: Enjoy a free late-night show from country duo Morgan Squared at the Seven bar inside Cherokee Casino. It's a great way to end a Thursday night with some live local music.

  • DESCENDENTS with Teen Mortgage & MattstaGraham ($)

    • Time: 8:00 PM (Doors 7:00 PM)

    • Location: TempleLive, 200 N 11th St, Fort Smith, AR 72901

    • Description: Punk rock pioneers DESCENDENTS bring their legendary, high-energy show to Fort Smith. Joined by Teen Mortgage and MattstaGraham, this is a can't-miss night for fans of classic and modern punk rock.

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.

NWA TRIVIA ANSWER:

War Eagle Mill!

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