There are always great things to do in the Natural State, and AY About You has compiled some of the most exciting events in Arkansas this weekend. Also, listen to 103.7 The Buzz every Friday morning for Morning Mayhem to learn more about what’s going on during the weekend, featuring AY About You President and Publisher Heather Baker.
Looking for more things to do for Valentine’s Day? Check out our list!
Thursday, Feb. 12
What: Heartbreak & Homicide
Where: Town Pump (Little Rock)
When: 7 p.m.
Valentine’s Day is all about love… until it turns deadly. Get ready for an unforgettable in-person experience shrouded in mystery. Dive into a world of thrills, kills and unexpected twists at Town Pump. Whether you’re into mysterious whodunnits or anti-rom-coms, this event has got it all! Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of the excitement and connect with others who love a good story.
Thursday, Feb. 12 – Friday, Feb. 13
What: 30th Annual Broyles Award
Where: Oaklawn Hot Springs
When: Reception begins at 5:15 p.m. in the lobby; Award ceremony begins at 6:30 p.m.
The 30th Annual Broyles Award ceremony will bring together a nationally prominent group of leaders and influencers from across collegiate and professional football, including ESPN reporter Holly Rowe and Super Bowl Champion and College Football Hall of Famer Mark May. The Broyles Award winner, which honors college football’s top assistant coaches, will be announced live at the 30th Annual Broyles Award Ceremony on Thursday, Feb. 12. The high school ceremony takes place the following day.
Thursday, Feb. 12 – Saturday, Feb. 14
What: Comedian Alex Ortiz
Where: The Loony Bin (Little Rock)
When: 8 p.m. on Thursday, 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. on Friday, 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. on Saturday
Labeled the “Boriqua Beast of Comedy,” Alex Ortiz is one of the fastest rising stars in the comedy world today. Along with working comedy clubs around the world, and his many TV appearances (HBO’s Bad Boyz Of Comedy, Comedy Central’s Premium Blend, Who Got Jokes, and Winning Showtime At The Apollo TKO Comedy Championship), he has performed for USO Tours in 15 different countries! His high-energy, laugh-a-minute style is guaranteed to keep you in stitches and wanting more. With a combination of life stories and voice impressions that are uncanny, Alex Ortiz puts on a show you will not soon forget!
Thursday, Feb. 12 – Sunday, Feb. 15 (last chance)
What: “The Book Club Play”
Where: TheatreSquared (Fayetteville)
When: 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, with 2 p.m. matinees also on Saturday and Sunday
“The Book Club Play” by Karen Zacarías is a smart comedy about books and the people who love them. Ana’s cherished book club is turned upside down when a documentary crew captures their intimate conversations—and their secrets. Add a bold new member, surprising book choices, and a healthy dose of chaos, and you’ve got a witty look at what books (and friends) reveal about us. Whether you’re a voracious reader or just love a good laugh, “The Book Club Play” is a delightful reflection on life, love, literature and the side-splitting results when friends start reading between the lines.
Thursday, Feb. 12 – Sunday, Feb. 15 (runs through May 3)
What: “A Paradox of Plenty”
Where: Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts (Little Rock)
When: Hours vary by day
Kentucky-based artist Lori Larusso’s painting installation playfully tumbles across the Robyn and John Horn Gallery with no regard for centerline. Her installations depict a parade of objects—the everyday, forgettable or sometimes nostalgic bits that we consume and discard. An upturned shopping cart spills its contents onto the ground like an ironic cornucopia. There is both humor and reason for reflection as these things take on coded meanings in new contexts.
Thursday, Feb. 12 – Sunday, Feb. 15 (runs through June 7)
What: “The Greatest Wildlife Photographs”
Where: the Momentary (Bentonville)
When: 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Experience some of the most surprising animal behavior through the very best wildlife pictures from the pages of National Geographic Magazine. Curated by renowned nature picture editor, Kathy Moran, this exhibition is a celebratory look at wildlife with images taken by National Geographic’s most iconic photographers, such as Michael “Nick” Nichols, Steve Winter, Paul Nicklen, Beverly Joubert, David Doubilet and more. Showcasing the evolution of photography, the images convey how innovations such as camera traps, remote imaging and underwater technology have granted photographers access to wildlife in their natural habitat.
Thursday, Feb. 12 – Sunday, Feb. 15 (runs through Oct. 20)
What: Scavenger Hunt: Big Fun in Little Rock
Where: Locations vary across Little Rock
When: Times vary
Why did the Little Rock scavenger hunt cross the river? To explore all the hidden gems in the River Market neighborhood, of course! Join now on this exciting adventure, navigating through historic landmarks, green spaces and epic sculptures without breaking a sweat. Discover the beauty and charm of Little Rock while solving clues and completing challenges along the way. Get ready to uncover the secrets of a city with a rich history and vibrant culture. From statues to presidential parks to international gates, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
Friday, Feb. 13
What: Old State House 75th Anniversary
Where: Old State House Museum (Little Rock)
When: 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
The Old State House first opened as a museum on February 14, 1951. The Friends of the Old State House invite you to celebrate this milestone with an evening of 1950s-era music, 1950s-inspired cocktail attire (suggested, not required), refreshments and more!
Friday, Feb. 13
What: Anti-Valentine’s Day Party!
Where: Danger Dave’s (Bentonville)
When: 7 p.m.
Hate love? Mad at love? Heartbroken? Or just want to break hearts? Do it at Danger Dave’s! The joint is throwing its Anti-Valentine’s Day Party with DJ OPLEX turning heartbreak into bass drops. No roses. No romance. Just loud music, strong drinks and zero emotional responsibility. PSST! There’s a piñata to break.
Friday, Feb. 13
What: “Romeo + Juliet” 30th Anniversary
Where: CALS Ron Robinson Theater (Little Rock)
When: 7 p.m.
Baz Luhrmann’s electrifying, MTV-era reimagining of Shakespeare changed how a generation experienced the Bard. Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes star in this bold, kinetic, visually iconic adaptation that blends classical language with modern style. Thirty years later, Romeo + Juliet remains a defining film of the ’90s — and a perfect Art Night selection for audiences who love cinema as visual poetry.
Friday, Feb. 13
What: Fort Kids Dueling Pianos Fundraiser
Where: Hardscrabble Country Club (Fort Smith)
When: 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
The Fort Kids Children’s Museum is officially stepping into the chapter where walls rise, exhibits take shape and a space designed for every child becomes real — a place meant to serve generations of families in our community. And it’s kicking off with an unforgettable night featuring Howl2Go, who is flying in from Chicago to help launch the biggest fundraising year yet! If you believe in the mission of Fort Kids and want to be part of this next phase of growth, this is the moment.
Friday, Feb. 13
What: A Valentine’s Night of Decadence to Remember
Where: Rustry Tractor Vineyards (Little Rock)
When: 6:30 p.m.
Enjoy award-winning estate chocolates paired with the owner’s favorites: bubbles, wine, sake and tequila. Your dinner, prepared by Chef Shawna McGill, is perfectly paired with the owner’s private cellar wines procured from wineries around the world. This is an extremely rare experience curated for guests who appreciate the extraordinary and an opportunity to dive into the creative minds (and cellar) of Doug and Sheree Meyer.
Friday, Feb. 13 – Saturday, Feb. 14
What: Hot Springs Village Home Show Expo
Where: Coronado Events Center (Hot Springs Village)
When: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The Hot Springs Village Home Show Expo features professionals from the home improvement industry to answer your questions. You’ll find appliances, HVAC, kitchen remodels, bathroom remodels, remodeling for any room, home decor, luxury bedding, interior design, insurance, handyman services, pest control… you’ll find nearly everything imaginable for your home, inside and out.
Friday, Feb. 13 – Sunday, Feb. 15 (last chance)
What: Red Curtain Theatre Presents: You Can’t Take It With You
Where: Red Curtain Theatre (Conway)
When: 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, 2:30 p.m. on Sunday
The family of Martin Vanderhof lives “just around the corner from Columbia University – but don’t go looking for it.” Grandpa, as Martin is more commonly known, is the paterfamilias of a large and extended family of charming eccentrics. His granddaughter, Alice, is an attractive and loving young woman who is still embarrassed by her family’s idiosyncrasies. When Alice falls for Tony, a handsome scion of Wall Street, she fears that their two families – so unlike in manner, politics and finances – will never come together. But why be obsessed with money? After all, you can’t take it with you.
Saturday, Feb. 14
What: The Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery Dinner Show: “The Hollywood Hit”
Where: Holiday Inn Presidential off of I-30 (Little Rock)
When: 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
North America’s largest interactive comedy murder mystery dinner theatre is now playing in Little Rock. Guests will help solve a hilarious true crime while enjoying a full plated dinner. Beware, the culprit could be anyone in the room. This award-winning show features hidden actors and plenty of surprises, creating a fun and immersive evening for adults. Dinner, gratuity and entertainment are all included.
Saturday, Feb. 14
What: Japanese Tea Ceremony
Where: 341 Whittington Ave (Hot Springs)
When: 12:30 p.m.
Rooted in centuries-old tradition, this gathering invites guests to slow down, breathe deeply and share a bowl of tea prepared with care and mindfulness. Through simple movements, seasonal aesthetics and the sharing of tea and sweets, the ceremony offers a gentle pause from daily life—a reminder of harmony, respect, purity and tranquility. No prior knowledge is needed; all are welcome to simply arrive as they are and enjoy the moment.
Saturday, Feb. 14
What: Valentine’s Day at the Zoo
Where: Little Rock Zoo
When: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Make it a day to remember with your favorite animals—and maybe your favorite person, too. The Zoo is the perfect spot for a fun and relaxed day date! Watch the animals explore holiday-themed enrichment and enjoy a special day together.
Saturday, Feb. 14
What: Second Saturday: Black History Month
Where: Crystal Bridges (Bentonville)
When: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
In collaboration with NWA Black Heritage, the museum is offering a day of creativity and learning. Begin by making a Scratch Board Portrait inspired by Elizabeth Catlett’s Sharecropper in the studios. Then, head through the recently opened Visions of America galleries to check out the We the People by Nari Ward Art Cart, and join a special gallery talk at 11:30 a.m. with a Gallery Guide for a deep dive about We the People! Spend some time with AnReckez Daniels and Naudia Walton from the University of Arkansas Multicultural Center during a gallery talk at 1 p.m. and learn about the work that they are doing in the community!
Saturday, Feb. 14
What: Fat Saturday Parade of Fools
Where: Downtown Fayetteville
When: 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Fayetteville Mardi Gras invites you to the 33rd annual Fat Saturday PARADE OF FOOLS! Costumes, floats and beads, beads, beads! This family-friendly event is fun to watch and even more fun to participate in. The parade will begin at 2 p.m. at the Fayetteville Square and proceed down Block and Dickson Streets. Bring your friends and family and come join the fun!
Saturday, Feb. 14
What: The Barbie Sports Club Tour
Where: Promenade at Chenal – near Altar’d State (Little Rock)
When: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
For ONE DAY ONLY, Little Rock is transforming into a Barbie dreamland. This is your chance to snag exclusive, limited‑edition Barbie merch you won’t find anywhere else — sporty, chic and totally fabulous. Grab your besties, slip into your cutest pink outfit and come check out all the fun, sporty Barbie goodies waiting for you. Don’t miss it — this is the perfect photo‑op, friend hangout and collector moment all in one!
Saturday, Feb. 14
What: Mardi Gras Day Parade
Where: Downtown Eureka Springs
When: 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Watch the streets come alive with the infectious spirit of Mardi Gras. Experience a dazzling procession of elaborate floats, flamboyant costumes and lively performances that weave through the heart of this charming town. Immerse yourself in the jubilant atmosphere as beads, masks and the unmistakable sounds of celebration fill the air.
Saturday, Feb. 14
What: Dancing into Dreamland 2026
Where: Dreamland Ballroom (Little Rock)
When: 7 p.m.
Experience an unforgettable evening of competitive dancing featuring TWO winners: one chosen by our celebrity judges and one voted by YOU via text message. Enjoy premium hors d’oeuvres and handcrafted cocktails throughout the night while browsing our silent auction filled with exclusive items and experiences.
Saturday, Feb. 14
What: Sea of Romance
Where: Blue Zoo Rogers
When: 5 p.m.
Sea of Romance is an intimate adults-only date night filled with hands-on experiences, delicious food and playful moments with some of the most charming animal friends. From painting with a mermaid to capturing delightfully awkward couple photos with reptiles, every moment is designed to spark laughter, wonder and a little ocean-inspired romance.
Saturday, Feb. 14
What: Arkansas Razorbacks vs. Auburn Tigers – Men’s Basketball
Where: Bud Walton Arena (Fayetteville)
When: 7:30 p.m.
The Auburn Tigers visit the Arkansas Razorbacks for a primetime SEC showdown at Bud Walton Arena. With both programs known for high-intensity defense, fast-paced play and strong home-court atmospheres, this matchup offers a chance to see contrasting lineups and coaching styles tested in a pressure-filled conference setting.
Sunday, Feb. 15
What: Mardi Gras Brunch
Where: Southern Tail Brewing (Little Rock)
When: 10:45 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Southern Tail Brewing is celebrating with a New Orleans-inspired buffet stacked with crawfish beignets, king cake and other Crescent City classics, plus your go-to Southern Tail brunch favorites. Add live music, cold drinks and plenty of reasons to linger at the table, and you’ve got yourself a proper Fat Tuesday-style feast… just a few days early. Reservations are recommended and will go fast!
Sunday, Feb. 15
What: SOUPerbowl Party!
Where: Ozark Beer Company (Rogers)
When: 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Gather in the taproom for homemade soup, locally made bowls and a food drive benefitting the NWA Food Bank. Guests will have the option of selecting and purchasing a locally made bowl and a variety of homemade soups by Margaret’s Flavor Co. to help warm you on what’s likely going to be a colder February day. Bring a non-perishable food donation to help fill others’ bowls around Northwest Arkansas.
Sunday, Feb. 15
What: Mardi Gras in the Spa
Where: Bridge Street Entertainment District (Hot Springs)
When: 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Get ready for a vibrant, family-friendly Mardi Gras celebration! Expect live entertainment from local and regional performers, a walking parade for kids, costume contests for kids, a kids’ zone, vendors, food, plus plenty of fun for the adults, too!
RECURRING EVENTS
Photo Credit: Fayetteville Mardi Gras on Facebook
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