Bentonville is buzzing with activity this weekend, July 18-20, 2025! Whether you’re looking for family fun, outdoor adventures, artistic inspiration, or a chance to support local, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a rundown of the top things to do:
Family Fun & Community Events
- Wizard of Oz Weekend with Best Friends (Friday, July 18 & Saturday, July 19): Follow the yellow brick road to the Best Friends Pet Resource Center for a magical movie night featuring The Wizard of Oz on Friday. On Saturday, enjoy a costume contest and book reading. It’s a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a classic story and perhaps even meet some adoptable furry friends!
- Downtown Ice Cream Crawl (Friday, July 18 – Sunday, July 20): Satisfy your sweet tooth all weekend long with the Downtown Ice Cream Crawl. Check the Experience App for participating locations and details.
- Bentonville Farmers Market – Outdoor Season (Saturday, July 19, 7:30 AM – 1:00 PM): A beloved community tradition, the Bentonville Farmers Market on the Bentonville Square is the perfect way to kick off your Saturday. Stock up on fresh produce, local crafts, and delicious treats.
- Bentonville Art Market (Saturday, July 19, 7:30 AM – 3:00 PM): Also on the Bentonville Square, the Art Market offers a chance to browse and buy unique creations from local artists and makers.
- Paws on the Lot – Dog Adoption Event (Saturday, July 19, 10 AM – 1 PM): Head over to Crain Hyundai of Bentonville to meet some adorable pups looking for their forever homes.
- Kids and Family Paint your Pet (Pre-Sketched) (Saturday, July 19, 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM): Get creative at Painting with a Twist! This unique event allows you to paint your furry, scaly, or feathery friend with the help of an artist who will pre-sketch your pet. Remember to send in a photo of your pet at least 3 days before the event!
- Bentonville Kids Rave at Lawrence Plaza (Saturday, July 19, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM): Dive into a vibrant, kid-friendly dance party at Lawrence Plaza Splash Park. It’s an energetic event combining music and movement for an unforgettable experience for the little ones.
- Meet & Match Weekends (Saturday, July 19 & Sunday, July 20, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM): Visit the Best Friends Pet Resource Center for their ongoing adoption event.
- Pet & Play Sundays (Sunday, July 20): Drop by the Best Friends Pet Resource Center for some fun, family-friendly craft activities!
Arts & Culture
- Brush Strokes | Film Screening & Therapeutic Art Workshop (Sunday, July 20, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM): Head to The Momentary for a special film screening and therapeutic art workshop in the Fermentation Hall.
- Film Screening | Unveiled: Daisy Bates & Johnny Cash (Sunday, July 20): Catch “Unveiled: Daisy Bates and Johnny Cash,” an original documentary from Arkansas PBS and award-winning filmmaker Nathan. Location and time to be confirmed, but keep an eye out for this insightful screening.
- Ongoing Exhibits at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art and The Momentary: Don’t forget to explore the incredible art collections at Crystal Bridges and The Momentary. These world-class museums always have something new and exciting to see.
Outdoor & Sports
- Yoga in the Garden (Saturday, July 19, 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM): Grab your mat and enjoy a FREE yoga session in the beautiful Peel Botanical Garden, led by Yoga Story.
- Jump & Drop Clinic with Anneke Beerten (Saturday, July 19): For the mountain biking enthusiasts, multiple-time World Champion Anneke Beerten will be leading a Jump & Drop Clinic at Coler Mountain Bike Preserve. A great opportunity to take your riding to new heights!
- Explore Bentonville’s Trails: With over 70 miles of singletrack mountain bike trails interconnected with parks, hotels, and restaurants, Bentonville is a biker’s paradise. If biking isn’t your speed, enjoy a leisurely walk or run on the many scenic trails.
- Various Summer Activities: The City of Bentonville offers a range of ongoing summer activities including Astronomy Viewing, Beginner SUP, Beginner Tai Chi, Family Kayaking, Fishing, K9 Unit Presentation & Trail Walk, Mindfulness Hike, Modern Birding, NWA Forest Bathing, Rock Climbing, Try Archery, and Yoga and Meditation. Check the Bentonville Parks and Recreation website for specific times and locations.
Music & Live Performances
- Goo Goo Dolls at Walmart AMP (Saturday, July 19, 7:00 PM): Catch the iconic Goo Goo Dolls live at the Walmart AMP for a night of classic hits.
- Jason Aldean at Walmart AMP (Friday, July 18, 7:00 PM): If country is more your style, Jason Aldean will be performing at the Walmart AMP on Friday.
Important Note: While this article provides a comprehensive overview, it’s always a good idea to check individual event websites or social media pages for the most up-to-date information, including any last-minute changes or ticketing details. Enjoy your weekend in Bentonville!
