Today
in Little Rock
Thursday, February 19th, 2026
Good morning, Little Rock. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 19th of February.
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ For the 16th year, SoMa 501 will host the SoMardi Gras celebration on Saturday, with a parade kicking off at noon at 22nd and Main and a street festival beginning at 10:30 a.m. on Main. Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
- ➤ The Plantation Agriculture Museum hosts Sakura Matsuri on Saturday, Mar. 21 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. to honor Japanese American families who settled in Scott after WWII — the event launches a weeklong series of cultural programs featuring historic games and origami demonstrations. ABC 7
- ➤ Arkansas officials unveiled new signage Tuesday outside the Daisy Bates House (located on West 28th Street), naming it one of 11 significant sites from 250 years ahead of the America 250 celebration. The historic home highlighted civil rights history, including its role with the Little Rock Nine. ABC 7
- ➤ Ballet Arkansas will debut its reimagined version of Prokofiev’s Cinderella later today — a world premiere that blends fresh choreography, humor and heart to retell the classic fairy tale. Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
- ➤ Claire Brown of Little Rock PowerWomen discussed the lasting impact of prominent Black women at the THV11 studio during Black History Month — a tribute to influential community voices. THV 11
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission announced a three-year partnership with Electric Cooperatives to launch hunter, boater and ATV safety courses during the 2026-27 school year. High school seniors who complete the certifications will earn a special cord (a mark of responsible recreation) for graduation. ABC 7
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Yesterday, the Little Rock Port Authority board approved a sole-source contract worth nearly $1M to build a drainage ditch at the Port & the board also approved an engineering contract for a rail extension project needed to meet a $2M grant deadline. Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
- ➤ North Little Rock's new $12M central fire station, located at the corner of Main Street and West 13th Street, will open in April after 18 months of construction. It will ease response times downtown and Midtown and offer extra space for fire equipment (housing up to 14 firefighters). ABC 7
- ➤ On Friday morning, the six bronze doors at the Capitol will reopen, restoring the main entrance closed after 9/11. Installed in 1910, the doors have witnessed 25 years of history and now feature updated metal detection systems & increased staffing & improved security for a safe, welcoming entry. ABC 7
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Four flu deaths were reported in Arkansas over the last week as the state Department of Health confirmed that flu activity remains high for a third consecutive week. The department also noted 162 hospitalizations and a small rise in public school absenteeism. Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ On Wednesday, Darius Acuff set a Razorbacks’ freshman scoring record with 49 points (surpassing Scotty Thurman's mark) in a 117 to 115 loss to Alabama. He finished the game with 579 season points after making key shots. Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
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Cinderella Soirée and Ballet Performance
7:30 p.m. — Robinson Center — $50 per person — Experience a magical afternoon with teatime treats and a special performance by Cinderella and friends.
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John Mulaney Live in North Little Rock
7-9 p.m. — Simmons Bank Arena — Tickets available — A night of laughs with comedian John Mulaney in North Little Rock.
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Dinosaur Adventure
9 AM – 12 PM — Arkansas State Fair — Family Friendly — Step into a world of prehistoric giants with life-sized dinosaurs that move and roar.
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Central Arkansas Soup Sunday
3:30-6:30 p.m. — Jack Stephens Event Center — Adult tickets $50, child tickets $10 — Enjoy a casual family-friendly atmosphere filled with delicious soup for a great cause.
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MJ Musical Performance
7:30-10:30 p.m. — Robinson Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the dazzling artistry of Michael Jackson in a Tony Award-winning musical.
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MJ The Musical
7:30-10:30 p.m. — Robinson Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the magic of Michael Jackson's artistry brought to life in a Tony Award-winning musical.
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Experience a Day as a Music Major
8 AM – 4 PM — Center for Performing Arts — Free entry — Explore the vibrant life of a UA Little Rock music major with auditions, classes, and more.
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Treaty Oak Revival Concert
6-8:30 p.m. — Simmons Bank Arena — Tickets from $66 — Enjoy last-minute access to the Treaty Oak Revival concert in North Little Rock.
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Natural State Backyard Ultra
8 AM – 2 PM — Burns Park Soccer Complex — Registration cost applies — Experience an exciting ultramarathon event at the High School Ultramarathon National Championship.
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2026 American Farrier’s Association Convention
8:00 AM - 10:30 PM — Statehouse Convention Center — Registration fees apply — A comprehensive gathering for farriers and equine professionals featuring lectures, competitions, and an expo.
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No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
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