Date: July 18, 2025
Happy Friday, Northwest Arkansas! 🎉
TOGETHER WITH Earth Conscious Life

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It’s the start of another summer weekend, and the NWA calendar is filled with fun local events! From a thrilling bull riding extravaganza at Parsons Stadium to fresh business openings and a lineup of fun events, we’ve got everything to keep you informed and inspired. Today’s newsletter is proudly supported by Earth Conscious Life. Give them a try today!
In today’s NWA Today:
🚨 Top Story: Buckin' in the Ozarks Brings Thrilling Bull Riding to Parsons Stadium
🌟 NWA Digest: Community Bites
🏪 Local Business: NWA’s Business Buzz
📅 Upcoming Events: Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers, and Bentonville
☀️ Weather: NWA Forecast
🍽️ Featured Spot: Archie's Sandwichery
🎵 Live Music and Entertainment
Daily NWA Trivia: What world-renowned art museum in Bentonville was founded by Alice Walton? (Answer at the end of the newsletter)
Let’s dive in!
— Andrew E


Buckin' in the Ozarks Brings Thrilling Bull Riding to Parsons Stadium
Get ready for heart-pounding action as Buckin' in the Ozarks returns to Parsons Stadium in Springdale this weekend! This beloved rodeo event, featuring top-tier bull riding and rodeo excitement, kicks off tonight July 18 and 19, with gates opening at 6:30 p.m. each night. Organized by the Rodeo of the Ozarks, it's a celebration of Western heritage that draws families and thrill-seekers from across NWA.
Riders will compete for glory in high-stakes bull riding, showcasing skill, courage, and the spirit of the Ozarks. Whether you're a rodeo fan or new to the scene, this event promises unforgettable entertainment, complete with food vendors, family-friendly activities, and a vibrant community atmosphere. It's a perfect way to kick off the weekend.


What’s Good in Our Backyard 🏠
Renovated Hatchery Boosts Fishing Fun
Arkansas Game and Fish unveils a $16 million revamp of the Joe Hogan Hatchery, increasing fish production and launching the Legacy Lunker program to breed trophy bass from angler catches. This enhances recreational opportunities, draws tourists, and supports a $2.1 billion economic impact, delighting NWA outdoor enthusiasts.
NWA Leaders Tapped to Steer State Energy Policy
Northwest Arkansas’s leadership in sustainability and innovation is making an impact across the state. Lisa Perry, a Walmart executive, and Peter Nierengarten, the City of Fayetteville’s Environmental Director, have been elected to chair the Arkansas Advanced Energy Association and its foundation, respectively. Their election to these key statewide roles demonstrates that the expertise cultivated right here in NWA is being recognized as a model for Arkansas, placing our local leaders at the forefront of shaping the state’s energy future.
Alum Coach Brings Passion Back to Southside High
Nicholas Yarbrough, a 2008 Southside graduate, returns home to coach freshman basketball and golf teams, thrilled to mentor at his alma mater in Fort Smith. With a background in coaching NBA champions and state winners, he focuses on fundamentals, relationships, and program growth, uplifting students and the local sports scene.


Tyson Foods Taps Six AI Startups for Venture Funding
Northwest Arkansas continues to cement its reputation as a hub for global innovation. After its recent Demo Day event, Tyson Foods has selected six cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) startups for potential investment through its venture capital arm, Tyson Ventures. These promising young companies are pioneering solutions in food safety, automation, and consumer trends. This initiative brings world-class technology and talent into our regional ecosystem, positioning NWA at the forefront of the future of food and technology.
Goat Lab Brewing to Open Restaurant and Taproom in Fayetteville
Exciting news for craft beer lovers in NWA—Goat Lab Brewing is set to open a new restaurant and taproom in Fayetteville, bringing fresh flavors and a welcoming vibe to the community. This local brewery expansion promises a menu of innovative brews paired with delicious eats, creating a perfect spot for families and friends to gather. With a focus on quality ingredients and creative brewing techniques, Goat Lab is poised to become a staple in the area's vibrant food scene, boosting local tourism and supporting NWA's growing craft industry.

Fayetteville Fun
July Movie Night at Puritan Coffee & Beer
July 18, 7:00 PM
205 West Dickson Street, Fayetteville, AR
Family-friendly outdoor movie night showing Robin Hood Prince of Thieves staring Kevin Costner and Alan Rickman
Firefly Fling 2025
July 19, 5:00 PM - 9:30 PM
Botanical Garden of the Ozarks, Fayetteville, AR
Family festival with lights, activities, and entertainment
Fayetteville Farmers' Market
July 19 & 26, 7:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Downtown Square, Fayetteville, AR
Fresh produce, crafts, and local goods
Bluebird Chess Tournament
July 20, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Fayetteville, AR
Annual tournament open to all skill levels
Fayetteville Restaurant Week
July 20-26, various times
Various restaurants, Fayetteville, AR
Special menu offerings and giveaways
Dickson Street Mile
July 26, 7:00 AM
Upper Ramble, Fayetteville, AR
Summer race through downtown
Springdale Spotlight
Buckin' in the Ozarks
July 18 & 19, 7:00 PM
Parsons Stadium, Springdale, AR
PBR Challenger Series bull riding event
Splash Bash
July 19, 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
The Jones Center, 922 E. Emma Avenue, Springdale, AR
Free family event with inflatables, games, and water activities
Runway Bike Park
Daily, sunrise to sunset
The Jones Center, Springdale, AR
Free 2.75-acre bike park (helmets required)
Rogers Rundown
Jason Aldean Full Throttle Tour 2025
July 18, 7:00 PM
Walmart AMP, Rogers, AR
Live country music concert
Beaver Lake Tour of Homes & Gardens
July 19, 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Tour Starts at: 1920 S. 8th St., Rogers, AR
Go at your own pace to tour 6 amazing Beaver Lake Properties. Fundraiser for Micah 6:8 Initiative’s homelessness prevention and intervention efforts. Tickets are $35 and include a poolside box lunch.
Bentonville Buzz
Film Screening: Brush Strokes
July 20, various times
The Momentary, 507 SE E St, Bentonville, AR
Art-related film screening
Bentonville Farmers Market
July 19 & 26, 7:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Downtown Square, Bentonville, AR
Producer-only market with fresh produce and artisan crafts
KAWS: FAMILY Exhibition
Ongoing to July 28
Crystal Bridges Museum, 600 Museum Way, Bentonville, AR
Art exhibition blending pop culture and art ($15, free for members)
Eureka Springs
Silence In The Jungle [Live Theater]
July 18, 7:00 PM
Melonlight Theater, 2 Pine St, Eureka Springs, AR
Intimate theater performance set in 1936 jungle river setting
Beach House 2025 Charity: Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge
July 18-19, various times
Inn of the Ozarks Convention Center, 207 West Van Buren, Eureka Springs, AR
Fundraising event with poolside music and bar crawl
Eureka Springs Cemetery Tours
July 19, 11:00 AM
Eureka Springs Cemetery, Eureka Springs, AR
Family-friendly guided historical tours (every Saturday May-July)
Farmington
Farmington Farmers Market
July 19 & 26, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Creekside Park, Broyles Entrance, Farmington, AR
Fresh produce and artisan crafts (every Saturday April-September)

☀️ Weather: NWA Forecast
Friday, July 18: 92/72 °F | ☀️ Sunny | 10% | SW 5 mph
Saturday, July 19: 94/73 °F | 🌤️ Partly Cloudy | 20% | S 8 mph
Sunday, July 20: 91/70 °F | ⛈️ Scattered Thunderstorms | 40% | SE 10 mph


Sandwich from Archie's Sandwichery by Ben Collins-NWA Democrat-Gazette
Archie's Sandwichery
Bentonville's newest gem, Archie's Sandwichery, is delighting locals with its deli-style sandwiches, craft cocktails, and fresh coffee since opening in June. This locally owned spot at 280 N. Walton Blvd. offers a cozy atmosphere perfect for quick lunches or relaxed gatherings, emphasizing quality ingredients and creative flavors that highlight NWA's vibrant food scene. It's quickly becoming a favorite for families and food enthusiasts alike.

July 18, 2025
Jason Aldean with Nate Smith & RaeLynn ($)
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Walmart AMP, 5079 W Northgate Rd, Rogers, AR 72758
Description: Country superstar Jason Aldean headlines a massive night at the Walmart AMP, joined by rising stars Nate Smith and RaeLynn. Expect a high-energy show packed with number-one hits and stadium-sized production.
Happy Hour Concert with Earl & Them ($)
Time: 6:00 PM (Doors 5:00 PM)
Location: George's Majestic Lounge, 519 W Dickson St, Fayetteville, AR 72701
Description: Unwind from the week with a Fayetteville tradition: a happy hour show with blues and rock mainstays Earl & Them. It's the perfect way to kick off a Friday night on Dickson Street.
The Phlegms Album Release with Obliviate & Stepmom ($)
Time: 9:00 PM (Doors 8:30 PM)
Location: George's Majestic Lounge, 519 W Dickson St, Fayetteville, AR 72701
Description: Join The Phlegms as they celebrate their album release with a high-energy show. With support from Obliviate & Stepmom, this promises to be a loud, fun night of local rock.
John Paycheck ($)
Time: 8:00 PM
Location: Meteor Guitar Gallery, 128 W Central Ave, Bentonville, AR 72712
Description: Enjoy an awesome night of authentic country music with the one and only John Paycheck. The Meteor offers a fantastic, up-close-and-personal setting for this performance.
Idle Valley, Midnight Wagon, and Liquid Courage
Time: 7:30 PM (Doors 7:00 PM)
Location: Railyard Live, 101 E Cherry St, Rogers, AR 72756
Description: Catch a triple bill of local and regional rock bands at Railyard Live. This free show is a great opportunity to discover some new favorite artists in a relaxed, outdoor park setting.
Dead Horse Mountain
Time: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Location: Sassafras Springs Vineyard, 6461 E Guy Terry Rd, Springdale, AR 72764
Description: The Ozark-based Americana and folk group Dead Horse Mountain brings their rich harmonies and storytelling to the winery. Enjoy a free performance in a beautiful, rustic setting.
The Bonnie Situation
Time: 9:00 PM
Location: Seven (at Cherokee Casino), 2416 US-412, West Siloam Springs, OK 74338
Description: Get ready to dance with The Bonnie Situation, a high-energy party band. This free show at the casino is guaranteed to be a fun night out.
Fuzzy Logic
Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Location: Bike Rack Brewing Co., 801 SE 8th St #61, Bentonville, AR 72712
Description: Enjoy a summer night of jams with Fuzzy Logic, performing live on the patio at Bike Rack Brewing. This free show is a great way to enjoy local beer and local music.
July 19, 2025
Goo Goo Dolls & Dashboard Confessional ($)
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Walmart AMP, 5079 W Northgate Rd, Rogers, AR 72758
Description: Two iconic alternative rock bands, Goo Goo Dolls and Dashboard Confessional, team up for an unforgettable night of hits. Prepare for an evening of heartfelt anthems and nostalgic rock at the Walmart AMP.
MILDENHALL Album Release with Modeling & Ashtyn Barbaree ($)
Time: 9:00 PM (Doors 7:00 PM)
Location: George's Majestic Lounge, 519 W Dickson St, Fayetteville, AR 72701
Description: Celebrate the album release from local indie act MILDENHALL, a band known for their captivating sound. Joined by popular acts Modeling and Ashtyn Barbaree, this is a premier showcase of NWA's thriving original music scene.
Bats and Bluegrass Festival ($)
Time: 5:00 PM
Location: Illinois River Watershed Sanctuary, 221 S Main St, Cave Springs, AR 72718
Description: Enjoy an evening of authentic bluegrass music in a unique and beautiful setting. This family-friendly event combines great tunes with educational opportunities about local bat conservation, supporting the Illinois River Watershed.
Some Guy Named Robb ($)
Time: 7:00 PM (Dinner at 6:00 PM)
Location: Magnolia House Listening Room, 151 E Buchanan St, Prairie Grove, AR 72753
Description: Enjoy an intimate dinner concert with songwriter Some Guy Named Robb at the cozy Magnolia House. This listening room offers a unique, unplugged setting to connect with the artist and their stories.
Joe Stamm Band with Brody McKinney ($)
Time: 7:30 PM (Doors 6:30 PM)
Location: Railyard Live, 101 E Cherry St, Rogers, AR 72756
Description: Hailing from the rural Midwest, the Joe Stamm Band delivers a powerful blend of country, rock, and soul. Their storytelling and energetic performance make for a compelling live show.
JD & Company Jazz Duo
Time: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Location: Sassafras Springs Vineyard, 6461 E Guy Terry Rd, Springdale, AR 72764
Description: Savor an evening of smooth jazz with the JD & Company Jazz Duo. This free performance at Sassafras Springs Vineyard provides a sophisticated and relaxing weekend experience.
Mayday By Midnight
Time: 9:00 PM
Location: Seven (at Cherokee Casino), 2416 US-412, West Siloam Springs, OK 74338
Description: One of the region's most popular party bands, Mayday By Midnight, takes the stage for a free show. Expect a night of expertly performed covers that will keep you on the dance floor.
Todd Arkyn Crush
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Gotahold Brewing, 409 W Van Buren, Eureka Springs, AR 72632
Description: Singer-songwriter Todd Arkyn Crush brings his blend of rock, pop, and Americana to the Gotahold Brewing stage. Enjoy his performance with a craft beer in hand.
Rhythm Coalition
Time: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Location: Morano's, Fayetteville, AR 72701 Description: Catch the dynamic sounds of Rhythm Coalition at Morano's, a popular spot for local live music. .
July 20, 2025
East Hall Recording's 20th Anniversary Bash ($)
Time: 5:00 PM (Doors 4:00 PM)
Location: George's Majestic Lounge, 519 W Dickson St, Fayetteville, AR 72701
Description: Celebrate two decades of a cornerstone of the NWA music scene, East Hall Recording. This bash features a stellar lineup of local artists including Jess Harp, TV Preacher, Formals, and Pyrocratic.
NWA TRIVIA ANSWER:
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art!
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