Date: August 8th, 2025

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It’s mid-week magic in NWA, and the energy is soaring as we welcome fresh faces and exciting developments to our thriving community! From the University of Arkansas buzzing with a record-breaking freshman class to uplifting events that bring families together and innovative business expansions creating opportunities, we're celebrating all the positive vibes that make our region shine. Brought to you in part by 1440 Media—your trusted source for concise, unbiased news digests that highlight the best stories without the noise.

In today’s NWA Today:

Daily NWA Trivia: Who designed the iconic Thorncrown Chapel in Eureka Springs, a stunning glass structure blending seamlessly with nature? (Answer at the end of the newsletter)

Let’s dive in!

— Andrew E

Sponsored by 1440 Media.

The University of Arkansas is buzzing with energy as move-in weekend kicks off, welcoming a record number of new students to campus. Thousands of excited Razorbacks are settling in, ready to embark on their academic journeys amid the vibrant NWA community. University officials highlight the contagious enthusiasm, noting how this influx strengthens both the campus and surrounding areas like Fayetteville. With programming through the weekend and classes starting August 18, the focus is on fostering connections and success.

This growth underscores UA's appeal as a top educational destination, offering diverse opportunities in academics, sports, and extracurriculars. Families are thrilled, seeing it as a milestone that promises bright futures and community integration. As NWA continues to thrive, this record enrollment boosts local pride and economic vitality, inspiring the next generation of leaders in a supportive, inclusive environment.

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The eagerly anticipated SOAR NWA 2025, presented by Sam's Club, promises uplifting adventures with hot air balloons and family-friendly activities in Springdale. Guests Kelly Sampson and Larra Donaldson shared highlights on local shows, emphasizing community bonding and joyful outdoor fun that elevates spirits across NWA.

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Local school districts in NWA are buzzing with excitement as students return to upgraded facilities, including enhanced restrooms and learning spaces designed to enrich student life. Leaders emphasize these improvements foster better educational environments, promoting joy and success for families in Fayetteville, Rogers, and beyond.

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Residents in Northwest Arkansas were delighted this week as the iconic Goodyear Blimp soared overhead during its 100th anniversary tour, creating joyful moments for families spotting it in the skies. This fun sighting brought excitement to communities from Fayetteville to Bentonville, reminding everyone of the region's vibrant spirit and love for unique experiences.

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In an exciting boost for Northwest Arkansas, Central States Inc. has unveiled a $24 million, 105,000-square-foot metal frame manufacturing facility in Springdale, featuring cutting-edge robotic welding and automated systems. This expansion supports pre-engineered metal building systems and will create 50 new jobs this year, with potential for 140 more. This reflects strong partnerships, enhancing innovation and economic vitality for NWA families.

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Effective August 5, Arkansas' new traffic laws double fines in work zones, introduce flashing green lights for better visibility, and add safety education to driver's tests. These inclusive measures protect workers and drivers, promoting a safer, more aware community across NWA roads and fostering positive civic responsibility.

Visit

Movie Night at Arvest Ballpark - Arvest Ballpark, Springdale - gates 7pm movie 7:30pm free screening of Angels in the Outfield with popcorn and treats 

Peach Perfection Cooking Class - Honeycomb Kitchen, Rogers - time TBA seasonal workshop cooking with peaches 

"Social Dance: Rio Samba Night" - Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Bentonville - 7-11pm participatory dance event learning samba 

"The 1973 Longhair Invasion – ESHM Time Travel Event!" - Inn of the Ozarks Convention Center, Eureka Springs - 5-10pm unique fundraiser trip back to 1973 

"ROBBIE!" - Various theaters, Eureka Springs - time TBA live theatrical performance 

The 126th Tontitown Grape Festival - Henri De Tonti Boulevard, Tontitown - all day continues with spaghetti dinners queen coronation and carnival 

"Dress Up Speak Up: Regalia and Resistance" - 21c Museum Hotel, Bentonville - all day ongoing exhibit exploring identity and resistance

TheatreSquared's 20th Birthday Bash - TheatreSquared, Fayetteville - 3-7pm free family-friendly party celebrating 20 years 

Cosmic Masquerade - Location TBD, Northwest Arkansas - time TBA science-inspired masquerade event 

Second Saturday's in Pea Ridge - Various locations, Pea Ridge - 5-9pm shop local with vendors art crafts and more

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

Bentonville Farmers' & Art Markets - Bentonville Square, Bentonville - 7:30am-1pm over 130 vendors plus kids club 9am-12pm 

Rogers Local Food & Art Market - Railyard Park, Rogers - 8am-1pm classic vibes 

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

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

"Little Tinkerers: Tool School" - Scott Family Amazeum, Bentonville - 9-10:30am hands-on introduction to tools for young children 

ZingFling - Scott Family Amazeum, Bentonville - 6-8pm event for early learners 

"Second Saturday: Book it!" - Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Bentonville - 1-4pm free family event with artmaking and gallery talk 

Toddler Soccer - Gulley Park, Fayetteville - 9-10am high-energy intro to soccer ages 2-6 

Northwest Arkansas Handweavers Guild - Shiloh Museum of Ozark History, Springdale - 10am artisan guild meeting showcasing crafts 

The 126th Tontitown Grape Festival - Henri De Tonti Boulevard, Tontitown - all day final day with spaghetti dinners run for the grapes 5k and carnival

"AR Roller Skate Crew - Annual Swimsuit Rollout" - Various locations, Fayetteville - 6pm themed skate event for all skill levels 

"Sunday Reset - Rise & Radiate | Outdoor Power Flow" - The Momentary, Bentonville - 10:30-11:30am outdoor yoga class 

"Small Dog Sundays! Small Dog Paw-ty!" - Good Dog Cafe, Fayetteville - 3-4pm off-leash park for small dogs and owners 

Sacred Harp Singers - Shiloh Museum of Ozark History, Springdale - 1:30pm participatory community singing historical tradition 

"Baby Prints on Pottery: Beach Prints" - Various locations, Bentonville - time TBA craft event creating keepsakes with baby prints 

"Dress Up Speak Up: Regalia and Resistance" - 21c Museum Hotel, Bentonville - all day ongoing exhibit exploring identity and resistance

"Yayoi Kusama Flowers" - Orchard Trail at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Bentonville - all day ongoing vibrant installation 

"The Bruising: For Jules The Bird Jack and Leni" - North Forest at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Bentonville - all day ongoing powerful installation 

"The Art of Whole Health" - Heartland Whole Health Institute, Bentonville - all day ongoing exhibition 

"Foundations of American Art" - Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Bentonville - all day newly opened gallery re-envisioning American art 

"Front Row Center: Icons of Rock Blues and Soul" - The Momentary, Bentonville - all day ongoing photography exhibition 

"The Prison Concerts: Folsom and San Quentin" - The Momentary, Bentonville - all day ongoing historic photography of Johnny Cash concerts

The Arkansas Razorbacks are gearing up with positive momentum as preseason watch lists highlight top talent. Offensive lineman Caden Kitler earned a spot on the Rimington Trophy Preseason Watch List, while nine softball athletes received Easton/NFCA All-America Scholar Athlete honors for outstanding academics. Head coach Brad McMakin's golf team has an exciting schedule ahead, including hosting the Blessings Collegiate Invitational and adding new events. Quarterback Taylen Green was named to the Davey O’Brien National Quarterback Award watch list, recognizing him among the nation's elite. These achievements build excitement for the upcoming seasons, showcasing dedication and excellence.

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Happy Hour: The Nace Brothers ($) George's Majestic Lounge, Fayetteville | 6:00 PM Happy hour performance featuring The Nace Brothers. 

Arkansauce with Chucky Waggs ($) George's Majestic Lounge, Fayetteville | 9:00 PM Hometown heroes return with their progressive "newgrass" sound. 

Full House ($) Railyard Live, Rogers | 8:00 PM Fayetteville favorites performing at Rogers' premier outdoor venue. 

Roby Pantall (Free) Sassafras Springs Vineyard, Springdale | 6:00 PM Vino and Vibes series featuring acoustic performance. 

TJ Williams (Free) JJ's Grill, Fayetteville | TBD Free live music at the casual dining venue.

Benjamin Del Shreve & Six Hung Sprung ($) George's Majestic Lounge, Fayetteville | 8:30 PM Unique musical performance at the legendary venue. 

Modeling, Ted Hammig & the Campaign, Frailstate (Free) Railyard Live, Rogers | 7:30 PM Free community concert featuring three local indie acts. 

Simply Seger ($) Meteor Guitar Gallery, Bentonville | 8:00 PM Bob Seger tribute celebrating timeless rock and roll. 

Jambi (Tool Tribute) / Beware Criminal (Incubus Tribute) ($) JJ's Live, Fayetteville | 8:00 PM Double tribute show featuring Tool and Incubus covers. 

Todd Crush Flat Five (Free) Sassafras Springs Vineyard, Springdale | 6:00 PM Evening acoustic performance at the scenic winery. 

Tom Peaver Band (Free) Gotahold Brewing, Eureka Springs | 6:00 PM Local band performance at the mountain town brewery. 

Arkansauce(Free)Bank OZK Stage, Ozark | TBD Free community show from Fayetteville's beloved newgrass band.

Fay Pop End of Summer Sunday Funday ($) George's Majestic Lounge, Fayetteville | 2:00 PM Afternoon celebration marking the end of summer.

E. Fay Jones!

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

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