Story by Madeleine Scott
Whether you went to Little Rock Central High School or are an Arkansas transplant, chances are there’s something new going on in town that you don’t know about! We’re here to round up some fun summer events to inspire you to step away from the bench and get some sun. Looking for something year-round? Challenge Entertainment has a free-to-play trivia almost every night of the week at restaurants around Little Rock! Find your favorite dinner spot and bring your friends to try and win some $$$.
Looking for something a little more laid back? The Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts (AFMA) always offers free admission to its exhibits, as well as ticketed admission to concerts and arts/pottery classes. AMFA members get discounted or free admission to those events, and your UAMS student ID can save you $20 on a membership.
Trying to eat more veggies? The Little Rock Farmers Market is every Saturday, 7 a.m. -1 p.m., starting May 3 through Aug 30. UAMS also has a farmer’s market from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Thursdays off Campus Drive (by the exit near Doc Java). If you’re looking for a little more challenge and a chance to win some free goodies, consider picking up an AFB Farm Trail Passport from a participating farm and checking off as many markets and you-pick berry stands as you can! (purchase required to collect passport stamp) As an additional reminder, the UAMS Stocked and Reddie food pantry is always available to students, allowing you to shop up to twice a week for ingredients for three healthy meals for your household. (free; registration required before first visit)
Not sure where to start on your culinary journey? Baptist Health is offering a series of free community cooking classes to teach you the basics of a healthy meal. Want something more advanced? Both Eggshells Kitchen Co and Urbana Farmstead offer more technical and unique cooking class options.
Consider yourself a budding food critic? Get ready to sample one of Arkansas’s classics at the World Cheese Dip festival. Be sure to bring a cupcake tin! ($20 GA)
Show up and show out for the community Juneteenth in Da Rock! A 5K, food and handcrafted goods for sale, live music and new exhibits at the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center. (free; items for purchase) Ready to celebrate the 4th of July? Bring your picnic blanket and grab a perfect spot along the river to watch the fireworks! The annual Pops on the River event will also have food vendors and live music. (free; items for purchase)
Got old board games? Looking for a new favorite? Come to the Game Goblins Board Game Swap Meet and give something new a try! (free; items for purchase)
Once a month, Argenta shows us exactly why it’s called the Arts District! Come see some local creativity and community at the Third Friday Art Walk. (free; items for purchase)
Got Pride? Rally in SoMa for the annual parade as well as vendors, crafts, exhibits, and other activities. (free; items for purchase)