Good morning, Little Rock.

Families in Little Rock are eagerly awaiting the reopening of the CALS Main Library at the River Market on October 4 after years of renovation—downtown events also include a Hispanic Heritage Celebration on Saturday and the Six Bridges Book Festival starting Sunday.

On Sept. 20, a stick-horse racing event was held at Embassy Suites to raise funds for the Methodist Family Health Foundation in Little Rock.

Guests raced stick horses determined by dice rolls—attendees also enjoyed a Southern buffet dinner, silent auction and prizes to help pay for transportation and grief support services.

Women & Children First recently joined ALICE@Work, a program that helped them rethink policies to support workers who face delayed reimbursements and limited part-time benefits.

They now provide upfront gas cards and paid time off for part-time staff—changes meant to boost retention and ease employee challenges.

On Sept. 20, the Willard & Pat Walker Charitable Foundation held the Gala for Life— a black-tie event at the Statehouse Convention Center to honor the late Nancy Jo Smith who cared for cancer patients for 45 years.

The event raised $1.327 million so far to benefit the UAMS Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute and featured video tributes from Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders.

Little Rock Christian Academy's cheerleaders will perform their annual All-Spirit Performance during football season to unite over 160 students from fifth to twelfth grade—head coach Sunshine Lee said early morning and after school practices help build strong bonds on campus.

The Central Arkansas Library System Main Library in downtown Little Rock will reopen to the public Monday after two years of renovations that closed the branch.

Pressure builds on both sidelines as No. 22 Notre Dame is set to face the University of Arkansas on Saturday—Arkansas, reeling from recent losses and turnover issues, is focusing on intensive practice to boost its playoff hopes.

Coach Sam Pittman and key players like quarterback Taylen Green say better execution will be crucial when they challenge the high-ranking Irish.

2 Old Goats Pickleball Tournament

3 AM – 3 AM — Burns Park — Free entry — Dive into an exciting weekend of competitive pickleball with local enthusiasts.

Arkansas Rasta Fest and 5K & 10K Run/Walk

9 AM – 6 PM — Julius Breckling Riverfront Park — Registration fees apply — Celebrate culture and fitness at this vibrant festival featuring races and festivities.

The Rock Orchestra By Candlelight

8:00-9:30 p.m. — Robinson Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience an electrifying performance with iconic rock hits set against a stunning candlelit backdrop.

2nd Friday Art Night

5-8 p.m. — Rock It! Lab — Free entry — Enjoy complimentary hors d'oeuvres, drinks, live music, and art in an engaging monthly gathering.

Swap Con® Little Rock

10 AM – 6 PM — Statehouse Convention Center — Free entry — Discover vintage treasures and collectibles at the Biggest BUY-SELL-SWAP®️ Convention in Arkansas.

Arkansas State Fair - Gate Admission

11:59 PM – 1:29 AM — Arkansas State Fair — Ticket prices vary — Experience the excitement of the Arkansas State Fair with fun rides, games, and food.

October: Drink & Discuss - The Ghost Writer

6-8 p.m. — Stickyz Rock'n'Roll Chicken Shack — Free entry — Embrace spooky season while engaging in lively discussions about 'The Ghost Writer'.

Travursity Travel Showcase

5-8:45 p.m. — Movie Tavern Little Rock — Registration required — Engage with travel suppliers and enjoy a unique cinematic showcase.

Arkansas Times Pig & Swig 2025

6-9 p.m. — River Market Pavilions — Earlybird tickets $30, General Admission $40, VIP $100 — Indulge in delicious pork bites and whiskey samples while enjoying live music at this popular local event.

Ghouls and Games Masquerade Gala

6-9 p.m. — Old State House Museum — Donation requested — Enjoy an enchanting night of masked intrigue, games, and a silent auction supporting mental health resources in Arkansas.