Date: September 5th, 2025

TOGETHER WITH H.G.D. Apparel Co.

The weekend is here, and with it comes a mix of community milestones, first-time football history, and plenty of music and markets to explore. Fayetteville is breaking ground on a park that will serve generations, the Razorbacks are heading into a can’t-miss matchup with Arkansas State, and families all over NWA have options to fill their days with food, art, and adventure. Let’s head into the weekend strong.

In today’s NWA Today:

Daily NWA Trivia: In 1839, what Washington County town briefly served as the capital of Arkansas before the government moved permanently to Little Rock? (Answer at the end of the newsletter)

Let’s dive in!

— Andrew E

Sponsored by H.G.D. Apparel Co.

Mark your calendars for Monday, September 8, when Fayetteville hosts a public groundbreaking for the first phase of Underwood Community Park—a project that's got locals genuinely excited about expanding our outdoor spaces. It all started back in 2019 with a generous land donation from jewelers Craig and Laura Underwood, handing over 38 acres to the city, paired with funding from the parks bond that residents backed without hesitation. This isn't just another patch of grass; it's a thoughtful boost to life here in NWA, blending private giving with community support to create spots that draw folks in and keep our area thriving.

As Craig Underwood shared, he's hoping it becomes a memory-maker for families, much like Gulley Park was for his own. Come summer 2026, expect a playground that'll keep the kids busy, pickleball and basketball courts for some friendly competition, and walking paths perfect for evening strolls—addressing that growing need on the west side where things are filling up fast. It's the kind of initiative that reminds us why we stick around these parts.

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A new report from The Recycling Partnership—backed by the Walmart Foundation—stresses that a $27 million investment over five years could skyrocket recycling rates across NWA. The cost-effective plan includes upgrades like automated pickups, standardized processing, and updated bins. The goal? 25% more recycling, better service for multifamily households (currently only 37% served), and a sustainable return on community well-being.

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Tonight marks another epic First Friday on Bentonville Square, turning downtown into Superhero City from 3 to 9 p.m. with live tunes, tasty eats, and activities that get everyone involved— a true nod to the lively spirit that keeps our area connected and fun for all ages.

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On September 27 at Hickory Creek Park, families can join the Beaver Lake cleanup effort, complete with lunch, prizes, and info booths on local ecology— a hands-on way to preserve our beautiful waters and boost recreation spots around Bella Vista for generations to come.

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A massive 284,896-square-foot industrial building near Walmart's distribution center changed hands for $31.48 million on September 2, underscoring the steady expansion in our logistics scene and opening doors for more jobs and family-supporting enterprises tied to downtown's energy.

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Springdale's America's Car-Mart wrapped up a $172 million asset-backed securities transaction on August 29 with a competitive 5.46% rate, paving the way for growth and spotlighting NWA's knack for innovative deals that make reliable rides more accessible to everyday folks.

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28th Original Ozark Folk Festival continues - Eureka Springs - All Day folk celebration continues

Sunny September at Farmland Adventures - Farmland Adventures, 5355 Parsons Rd, Springdale - 3:00 PM-9:00 PM opening day of fall season with corn maze, petting zoo, and U-Pick flowers

2025 September First Friday: Superhero City - Downtown Bentonville Square, Bentonville - 3:00 PM-9:00 PM monthly community block party with superhero theme

Plein Air Painting in the Ramble - Lower Ramble, Fayetteville - 5:30 PM-7:30 PM outdoor painting class

28th Original Ozark Folk Festival continues - Eureka Springs - All Day folk festival continues

Doubles Pickleball Tournament - Wilson Park, Fayetteville - All Day (runs through Sep 7) tournament celebrating new pickleball courts

Bentonville Farmers Market - Downtown Bentonville Square, Bentonville - 7:30 AM-1:00 PM weekly market

Fayetteville Farmers Market - Downtown Fayetteville Square, Fayetteville - 7:00 AM-2:00 PM Saturday market

Siloam Springs Farmers Market - Memorial Park, Siloam Springs - 8:00 AM-1:00 PM producers-only market

28th Original Ozark Folk Festival concludes - Eureka Springs - All Day final day of folk celebration

Doubles Pickleball Tournament concludes - Wilson Park, Fayetteville - All Day final day of tournament

Bella Vista Farmers Market - 1 Mercy Way, Bella Vista - 8:00 AM-1:00 PM weekly market

The Razorbacks are gearing up for a milestone matchup this weekend, facing off against in-state rival Arkansas State for the first time ever—a game that's got everyone talking about building bridges across the state. Set for Saturday at War Memorial Stadium in Little Rock, expect a high-energy atmosphere as Coach Pittman's squad looks to leverage their home-field edge after a solid opener. Key to watch: the Hogs' revamped offense against the Red Wolves' scrappy defense, with potential for big plays from QB Taylen Green. Kickoff's at 4:00 PM CT on SEC Network+.

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First Friday Songwriting Workshop (Free) * Folk School of Fayetteville, Fayetteville | 10:00 AM Hone your craft and connect with fellow musicians at this collaborative morning songwriting workshop.

Happy Hour: Nace Brothers (Free) * George's Majestic Lounge, Fayetteville | 5:30 PM Kick off your weekend at Fayetteville's oldest music venue with a free happy hour show featuring the blues and rock sounds of the Nace Brothers.

Live Music at Jammin Java (Free) * Jammin Java, Fayetteville | 6:00 PM Enjoy a coffee or a snack while listening to live local musicians in this cozy downtown Fayetteville spot.

Rachel B & Table for Three (Free) * Sassafras Springs Vineyard and Winery, Springdale | 6:00 PM Experience an evening of pop and jazz in the scenic setting of Sassafras Springs, where the atmosphere is as much a part of the appeal as the music.

The TimeKeepers Classic Rock (Free) * Meteor Guitar Gallery, Bentonville | 7:00 PM Rock out to classic hits as The TimeKeepers take the stage at Bentonville's intimate rock club.

Cadillac Jackson and TownHouseFire (Free) * Railyard Live, Rogers | 7:30 PM Enjoy a free night of local rock music at the Butterfield Stage in downtown Rogers.

Crankdat ($) * Ozark Music Hall, Fayetteville | 8:00 PM Electronic music producer Crankdat brings his heavy-hitting dubstep and dance tracks for a high-energy show.

LIVE KARAOKE NIGHT (Free) * The Music Depot, Rogers| 8:00 PM Take your karaoke game to the next level by singing with a live band behind you for a true rockstar experience.

Waylon Wyatt ($) * George's Majestic Lounge, Fayetteville | 9:00 PM Following his Thursday show, Waylon Wyatt plays a full-night concert, delivering his authentic folk and Americana sound.

The Ultimate Prince Tribute (Free) * Meteor Guitar Gallery, Bentonville | 10:00 PM Keep the First Friday party going with an after-party dedicated to the iconic music of Prince.

Live Music at Jammin Java (Free) * Jammin Java, Fayetteville | 9:00 AM Start your Fayetteville Farmers Market morning with live music and a fresh coffee at this downtown staple.

Live Music at Jammin Java (Free) * Jammin Java, Fayetteville | 6:00 PM Wind down your Saturday with another great set from a local artist at this beloved coffee shop.

JD and Company Jazz duo (Free) * Sassafras Springs Vineyard and Winery, Springdale | 6:00 PM Enjoy the smooth, sophisticated sounds of a live jazz duo while sipping local wine at this beautiful Springdale winery.

Steve Bach Jazz Fusion Artist ($) * The Music Depot, Bentonville | 7:00 PM Experience a captivating performance from jazz fusion artist Steve Bach in an intimate setting.

Dawson Hollow ($) * Meteor Guitar Gallery, Bentonville | 8:00 PM NWA's own indie folk-rock band Dawson Hollow brings their unique and amazing sound to the Meteor stage.

Interstellar Overdrive: A Tribute to Pink Floyd ($) * Railyard Live, Rogers | 8:00 PM Experience the legendary music of Pink Floyd, expertly recreated by tribute band Interstellar Overdrive, in an outdoor concert setting.

The Droptines ($) * George's Majestic Lounge, Fayetteville | 8:30 PM Texas country and rock group The Droptines, with support from Jack Lindsey, promise a high-energy show at George's.

Shrek Rave ($) * Ozark Music Hall, Fayetteville | 9:00 PM It's dumb, just come have fun! This viral, Shrek-themed rave is a one-of-a-kind dance party for fans of the ogre and electronic music.

Dirtmother ($) * George's Majestic Lounge, Fayetteville | 8:00 PM Brace yourself for a heavy night of rock featuring Dirtmother, with support from Dead Register and Ghost Hollow.

Karaoke Dance Party with Chris Kuri (Free) * Tin Roof, Fayetteville | 8:00 PM Your weekly chance to be a star! End the weekend with a fun-filled night of singing and dancing on Dickson

The temporary state capital in 1839 was Washington, Arkansas (in Hempstead County, not Washington County), while Fayetteville itself served as an early hub for territorial courts and meetings.

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

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