Northwest Arkansas Calendar of Events: May 2012

NWA Craft Fairs!

Ozark Regional Arts & Crafts Show

Nationally known and recognized as one of the top 100 craft fairs in the United States, the Ozark Regional Arts & Crafts Show is the largest indoor craft fair in the state of Arkansas. The 17th Annual Springtime Arts & Crafts Festival will offer a unique blend of health and beauty related products and services, home décor and antiques, ladies and children’s fashion and apparel, as well as original home spun arts and crafts.

Date: Friday, May 4 and Saturday, May 5

Time: 9am – 7pm

Location: NWA Convention Center, Holiday Inn (Springdale)

More Info: Free admission and free parking! www.nwacraftfairs.com

Frisco Station Mall Arts & Crafts Fair

One of the largest craft fairs in NWA, featuring hundreds of crafters. Baskets, woodworkers, potpourris, candles, jewelry, clothing, wreaths, oil and acrylic painting, and lots of other arts & crafts are available. Holiday theme gifts are in abundance, as well as seasonal décor.

Date: Friday, May 4 – Sunday, May 6

Time: 10am-9pm (Sunday till 4pm)

Location: Frisco Station Mall (Rogers)

More Info: www.nwacraftfairs.com

Sharp’s Show in War Eagle

Over 250 booths offering visitors a wide array of handmade crafts from skilled artisans located throughout the country.

Date: Friday, May 4 – Sunday, May 6

Time: 8am-5pm (Sunday till 4pm)

Location: Adjacent to the War Eagle Fair (Rogers)

More Info: www.nwacraftfairs.com

Spanker Creek Farm Arts & Crafts Festival

Clothing, leather goods, baskets, woodworkers, ironworks, jams & jellies, pickled veggies, furniture, sculpture, and lots of other arts & crafts are available. Also, holiday gifts and décor!

Date: Friday, May 4 – Sunday, May 6

Time: 8am-5pm (9am-4pm Sunday)

Location: Spanker Creek Farm (Bella Vista)

More Info: www.nwacraftfairs.com or www.spankercreekfarm.com

War Eagle Mill Craft & Culinary Fair

Date: Friday, May 4 – Sunday, May 6

Location: War Eagle Mill (Rogers)

More Info: www.nwacraftfairs.com or www.wareaglemill.com

Art on the Creek

A juried arts & crafts festival featuring local and national artisans who display and sell their work along McKissic Creek on the grounds of and inside The Studio and Wishing Spring Gallery. Art/craft demonstrations, “you be the judge” art contest, food and fun for everyone.

Date: Friday, May 4 and Saturday, May 5

Time: 9am-6pm

Location: Wishing Spring Gallery (Bella Vista)

More Info: www.bellavistafestival.org

Centerton’s First Annual Spring Festival

Crafts, vendors and music – a great time for the community to come together!

Date: Friday, May 4 and Saturday, May 5

Time: 10am-5pm

Location: City Park (Centerton)

More Info: www.centertonar.us


 

Touch a Truck

The sixth Annual Touch A Truck event will be May 5 from noon to 4 p.m. at the John Q. Hammons Center parking lot in Rogers. This is a unique, interactive, one-day event that allows children to climb on, explore and discover their favorite big trucks and vehicles. Kids can also meet the workforce that protects, serves and builds the Northwest Arkansas community.

Date: Saturday, May 5

Time: Noon to 4 p.m.

Location: John Q. Hammons parking lot

More Info: Junior League NWA

First Fridays – Bentonville

Activities, food and live music for the whole family! Held on the Bentonville square March through November.

Date: First Fridays of the month

Time: 11:30am-1pm and 5-8pm

Location: Downtown Bentonville Square

More Info: www.downtownbentonville.org

First Thursdays – Fayetteville

First Thursday Fayetteville is a monthly event held on the Downtown Fayetteville Square. It features various works of art, live music, outdoor movies and other cultural arts representations. Free and open to the public.

Date: First Thursday of the month

Time: 5 – 8pm

Location: Downtown Fayetteville Square

More Info: www.firstthursdayfayetteville.com

Fayetteville Farmers’ Market

For over 35 years, the downtown square market has offered the finest in locally produced vegetables, fruits, flowers, plants, meats, baked goods, honey, eggs, jams, crafts, and  fine art from the NWA area. Each market day is a feast for the eyes, ears and palate, with a riot of color, aromas, and sounds — street performers, tourists, and the residents of Northwest Arkansas visiting with over 60 vendors around the beautiful square gardens.

Date: Saturdays

Time: 7am – 2pm

Location: Downtown Square (Fayetteville)

More Info: www.fayettevillefarmersmarket.org

Springdale Farmers’ Market

Fruits, vegetables, herbs, honey, eggs, baked goods, plants and crafts. All items sold are produced by members of the market.

Date: Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays

Time: 7am – 1pm

Location: Memorial Walk of the Jones Center for Families (Springdale)

More Info: Free admission. Call 479.751.3352 with questions.

Little Sprouts

Join the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks for a short nature-based activity, weather permitting. Activities include a story, game or a take-home craft. Wednesdays May thru October.

Date: Wednesdays, May thru October

Time: 10am

Location: Botanical Garden of the Ozarks (Fayetteville)

More Info: Check website for weekly theme! Tickets – Kids over 13 $5, Ages 5-13 $2.50 and kiddos under 5 are free. www.bgozarks.org

Lunching for Hospice

Come have lunch at Carrabba’s in Rogers and support Circle of Life Hospice. Bring your friends and coworkers for a scrumptious lunch.

Date: Tuesday, May 1

Time: 11am or 1pm (Two seating times)

Location: Carrabba’s Italian Grille (Rogers)

More Info: Tickets ($15) can be reserved by calling Angela Broome at 479.872.3327.

University of Arkansas Campus Band and Symphonic Band

Final concert of the season!

Date: Tuesday, May 1

Time: 7:30pm

Location: Walton Arts Center (Fayetteville)

More Info: Tickets $10 for the general public, $5 for senior citizens and $1 for students.  www.waltonartscenter.org

Garden Party

Lunch will be served as P. Allen Smith talks and demonstrates gardening, cooking and design. Vendor fair and garden tours also included.

Date: Thursday, May 3

Time: 11:30am-1:30pm

Location: Botanical Garden of the Ozarks (Fayetteville)

More Info: Proceeds benefit scholarship fund. $100 donation includes Smith’s book. $75 – donation without book. For ticket info, please call 479.717.1905.

Artosphere Festival Kickoff

Start your afternoon at the Fayetteville Square for First Thursday, then join us at Walton Arts Center for an evening of music, arts and food! Bring a jar of nuts or peanut butter and get FREE event parking (in the lot across from WAC only). We’ll donate it all to local food shelters in an effort to stock the shelves with real food, inspired by Michael Pollan. CLICK HERE for a full listing of May Artosphere events.

Date: Thursday, May 3

Time: 5-9pm

Location: Walton Arts Center (Fayetteville)

More Info: www.artospherefestival.org

Popular Trail Mix Artosphere events:

Trail Mix Concert Tour: Bentonville

May 5 | 1-3:30pm | Enjoy 6 bands, from international to local, on pedal and solar powered stages, while biking or strolling along the Crystal Bridges Trails.

Trail Mix Concert Tour: Fayetteville

May 6 | 1-3:30pm | Walk or bike along the popular Lake Fayetteville Trail and enjoy 6 bands performing on pedal or solar powered stages. A free concert at the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks will follow.

Spring Music Fest – World Labyrinth Day

50+ amazing musicians, intimate song circles, Irish, country, rock, folk, indie, gospel… performing throughout the beautiful art park.

Date: Saturday, May 5

Time: Noon – 5pm

Location: Terra Studios (Fayetteville)

More Info: www.terrastudios.com

Battle for Hope 10K/5K/Family Fun Walk

10K/5K/Family Fun Walk to benefit Hope Cancer Resources, providing compassionate, professional cancer support and education in the Northwest Arkansas region today and tomorrow.

Date: Saturday, May 5

Time: 8am

Location: Old Tiger Stadium (Bentonville)

More Info: www.heathersraceforhope.com

Run for the Roses – JDRF Hope Gala

Dress in your Derby-inspired attire: hat contest with celebrity judges! Cash for the best hat!

Date: Saturday, May 5

Time: 4pm

Location: Horton Farms (Bentonville)

More Info: For more info, call 479.443.9190 or aphilley@jdrf.com

Africa in the Ozarks

Africa in the Ozarks celebrates traditional African culture and Its message for modern-day community life. It is presented by AFRIQUE AYA Drum and Dance Company, led by Angelo Yao.

Africa in the Ozarks is a festival of Afropop dance music, Traditional drum and dance classes and demonstrations. Classes are led by master-level African teachers from across the country. The festival culminates in a community-wide drum-circle.

Date: Thursday, May 3 – Saturday, May 5

Time: Check website for showtimes.

Location: The Auditorium (Eureka Springs)

More Info: www.theaud.org

International Migratory Bird Day

Join us as we celebrate the birds’ annual journey to their summer homes. Participate in games, crafts and programs revolving around these wonderful travelers.

Date: Saturday, May 5

Time: Contact the park for full schedule.

Location: Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area (Rogers)

More Info: Admission is free. www.arkansasstateparks.com/hobbsstateparkconservationarea

Wildflower Walk

Withrow Springs State Park protects habitat for many beautiful wildflowers. Join park interpreter Natalie for an easy stroll to look for some examples.

Date: Saturday, May 5

Time: 3pm

Location: Withrow Springs State Park (Huntsville)

More Info: www.arkansasstateparks.com/withrowsprings

NWA Cheese Dip Classic

Attendees will enjoy over 300 beers from around the world, and local celebrities, food critics, and political dignitaries will join the public in voting to decide which cheese dip will best represent the Northwest Arkansas region at the 3rd Annual World Cheese Dip Championship in Fall 2012.

Date: Saturday, May 5

Time: 2-6pm

Location: Washington County Fairgrounds (Fayetteville)

More Info: Admission $10. www.cheesedip.net

Spring Sing

The ACO Chorale and Youth Choir will again combine for a festive, fun-filled Spring concert.  A variety of musical styles and composers will be on the program, guaranteeing a delightful repertoire.

Date: Saturday, May 5

Time: 7:30pm

Location: Arts Center of the Ozarks (Springdale)

More Info: www.artscenteroftheozarks.org

Floating Wetland – Work Day

The floating wetland built will be installed in Lake Fayetteville, providing wetland habitat and becoming part of environmental education programs.

Date: Saturday, May 5

Time: 9:30am-1:30pm

Location: Lake Fayetteville Environmental Study Center (Fayetteville)

More Info: COST: $20 (lunch provided). WEAR: Comfortable clothes & shoes–may get wet or dirty. www.irwp.org/events/floating-wetland-registration

Birder Weekend

Whether you are a beginner or expert, Birder Weekend is a great opportunity to open your senses to all of our feathered friends! The weekend’s activities will include guided bird hikes, live bird of prey demonstrations, guest speakers, and crafts for the kids.

Date: Friday, May 4 – Sunday, May 6

Time: See website for details.

Location: Devil’s Den State Park (West Fork)

More Info: devilsden@arkansas.com or www.arkansasstateparks.com

Anna Wilson

Anna Wilson is a critically acclaimed jazz artist and songwriter whose recent album, Yule Swing!, reached No. 12 on the Billboard jazz chart. Her decadent and powerful voice, which Jazz Times likens to “crème de cocoa,” has earned her shared billings with Josh Grobin, Al Jarreau, and countless others.

Date: Sunday, May 6

Time: 2pm

Location: Arend Arts Center (Bentonville HS Campus)

More Info: www.liveonstagenwa.com

7Hills Golf Tournament

This 4-man scramble tournament will not just be a fun day with great prizes, but will also help raise awareness of homelessness and poverty. Build your own foursome or be assigned to a team, $125pp or $400 for a complete foursome.

Date: Friday, May 11

Time: 1pm

Location: Stonebridge Meadows Golf Course (Fayetteville)

More Info: For more info, info@7hillscenter.org or 479.251.7776. Click here for registration.

Faith and Family Night – Arvest Ballpark

Join the Naturals and Sam’s Furniture for a pre-game concert and stay after the game for fireworks!

Date: Friday, May 11

Time: 7:30pm

Location: Arvest Ballpark (Springdale)

More Info: For ticket info, www.naturals.com

Root Run

Annual 5K and Family Fun Run. Proceeds to help provide teachers grants, help pay for literacy aids, playground improvements and much more.

Date: Saturday, May 12

Time: 8am

Location: Root Elementary School (Fayetteville)

More Info: www.rootrun.com

Kendrick Fincher Youth Run & 5K Run/Walk

Youth run for K-8th grades begins at 9am – and is free. The 5K Run/Walk is a fundraiser. The two events are followed by a family fun time that includes vendor booths, fun activities for the family.

Date: Saturday, May 12

Time: 7:30am

Location: Pinnacle Hills Promenade Mall (Rogers)

More Info: www.kendrickfincher.org

Buddy Bass Kids Fishing Event

In conjunction with the annual Buddy Bass Fishing Tournament – no fishing license required to participate. Free lunch, t-shirts and prizes! Kiddos ages 4-15.

Date: Saturday, May 12

Time: 9am-1pm

Location: Prairie Creek Pavilion (Rogers)

More Info: Click here for registration.

Ozark Demolition Derby – Spring Challenge

Drivers face off in heated competition – competing for prizes and bragging rights!  Tickets will go on sale May 1st, 2012.

Date: Saturday, May 12

Time: 7:30pm

Location: Parsons Stadium (Springdale)

More Info: www.rodeooftheozarks.com

Speedy Skunk Run & Little Stinker Fun Run

Date: Saturday, May 19

Time: 8am

Location: Prairie Grove Battlefield Park (Prairie Grove)

More Info: www.speedyskunkrun.com

Block Street Block Party

A street fair that boasts 5 stages, kids’ activities, outdoor beer gardens, and best of the best of Fayetteville. Last year’s event drew 7000 people, and this year is only going to get funkier! This event captures the uniqueness of downtown Fayetteville.

Date: Sunday, May 20

Time: 11am – Dark

Location: Block Street (Fayetteville)

More Info: www.blockstreetbusinesses.com

LIBRARY STORYTIMES/EVENTS

Fayetteville – www.faylib.org for a full calendar.

Bentonville – www.youseemore.com/bentonville for a full calendar.

Springdale – www.springdalelibrary.org for a full calendar.

Rogers – library.rpl.lib.ar.us for a full calendar.

Fayetteville MOPS

A faith-based fellowship for mothers of preschoolers age birth to 5. The group meets regularly to share breakfast, share support, to learn from guest speakers and to celebrate Jesus Christ.

Date: 2nd Monday of every month

Time: 9-11am

Location: Trinity United Methodist Church (Fayetteville)

More Info: www.fayettevillemops.com

Rogers MOPS

A faith-based fellowship for mothers of preschoolers age birth to 5. The group meets regularly to share breakfast, share support, to learn from guest speakers and to celebrate Jesus Christ.

Date: 1st and 3rd Friday mornings

Time: 9-11am

More Info: Contact Summer Manzo, sumsum55@yahoo.com.

MOMSNext

An extension of MOPS, our group is focused on K-6th grades.

Date: Wednesdays

Time: 6:30-7:30pm

Location: Rogers 1st Nazarene Church (Rogers)

More Info: Contact Ginger Larsen, gingerbread4life@yahoo.com