Things to Do in Arkansas This Weekend (Aug. 7-9)

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — This weekend, the Natural State will be alive with things to do, including concerts featuring legendary artists, a tasty fruit festival and a pachyderm celebration.

Whether you’re looking for live music, outdoor fun or entertainment for the whole family, these events offer something for everyone.

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Featured Events

John Legend at Saracen Casino Resort (Saturday)

Grammy-winning singer-songwriter John Legend will perform Saturday night at Saracen Casino Resort in Pine Bluff. Known for hits including “All of Me” and “Ordinary People,” Legend’s intimate performance will feature stories behind the songs from his iconic career.

50th Annual Hope Watermelon Festival (Thursday-Saturday)

One of Arkansas’ tastiest summer traditions returns this weekend as the Hope Watermelon Festival celebrates its milestone 50th year. The event features live entertainment from Gretchen Wilson and hometown star Mae Estes on Saturday, contests, vendors, family activities and plenty of watermelon-themed fun.

Soulja Boy & Ying Yang Twins join Magic Springs summer concert lineup

Soulja Boy & Ying Yang Twins at Magic Springs (Saturday)

Hip-hop fans can enjoy a dose of early-2000s nostalgia when Soulja Boy and the Ying Yang Twins perform Saturday at Magic Springs Theme and Water Park in Hot Springs. The concert is included with park admission and begins at 7:30 p.m. inside the Timberwood Amphitheater.

Hot Springs Baseball Weekend (Friday-Sunday)

Baseball fans have plenty to do this weekend in the Spa City with the annual Hot Springs Baseball Weekend. The event includes a movie showing Friday, appearances from legends including Fred McGriff, Dave Stewart and Dale Murphy on Saturday, and a baseball card show Sunday.

How zookeepers keep animals cool at Little Rock Zoo

More Things to Do in Arkansas This Weekend

  • Arkansas Kennel Club All Breed Dog Show — Hundreds of dogs will compete in breed judging, obedience and agility events Friday through Sunday at the Arkansas State Fairgrounds in Little Rock.
  • Cedric Burnside & Garry Burnside — The acclaimed blues artists perform Friday night at White Water Tavern, bringing Mississippi Hill Country blues to one of Little Rock’s most popular live music venues.
  • Arkansas Travelers Homestand — The Travelers take on the Amarillo Sod Poodles this weekend with video game-themed fireworks Friday, the return of Clunk Car Night Saturday and Baseball Bingo on Sunday.
  • World Elephant Day — Families can celebrate World Elephant Day at the Little Rock Zoo on Saturday with special activities highlighting the zoo’s largest residents. The zoo will offer educational programs, animal encounters and family-friendly fun while raising awareness about elephant conservation.
  • Guitar Wars — This free event Saturday at Ron Robinson Theater showcases talented guitarists competing in front of a live audience. Vino’s will host a free after-party at 5:30 p.m. featuring an open jam session to raise money for future Guitar Wars events.
  • Catalyst Fest — Arkansas metal fans can catch an all-day lineup presented by Dead Party Media featuring some of the state’s brightest talent, including Pig Sticker, We Do Not Belong Here, Nail In Your Coffin, Tripwire and more.

Looking for more events? Visit our Local Events page for additional festivals, concerts, sporting events and community activities happening across Arkansas…

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