Ahhhh, imagine the smell of fresh basil permeating the air, plates of great food, locally produced cold craft beverages—all against a backdrop of excellent music and friendly people visiting in the setting sun. This picture in your mind is actually the real deal when Tri Cycle Farms throws its biggest “farm-raiser” event, Pesto Fest, conveniently nestled right in the heart of Fayetteville, Arkansas.

It has been said, and aptly so, “Without ice cream there would be darkness and chaos.” – Don Kardong We’re happy to report that for many reasons all is well in the City of Fayetteville, not the least of which is the profusion of great spots to satisfy your sweet tooth with something spectacularly cold and delicious. We haven’t been able to pick a favorite, but are so very content to keep the quest alive. Here are some must-tries when nothing will do but sweet, creamy perfection topped with your heart’s delight:

Brewers from throughout Arkansas are making big plans to converge upon Fayetteville July 12 and 13 for all things beer—as the Arkansas Brewers Guild hosts its popular annual conference “The Natural State of Beer.” There will be plenty to learn, people to meet and bottles to swap, and there’s no question one of the highlights of the gathering will be a chartered brewery tour to visit the veritable explosion of microbreweries in the region.

They say you should “pick your battles” and we believe this may just be THE one to choose! There’s about to be a bit of a throw down up on Fayetteville’s highest point, but everyone in attendance will unquestionably leave as a victor.

It’s next to impossible to picture Fayetteville, Arkansas without calling to mind the city’s much-storied, always vibrant Dickson Street. To honor these few illustrious blocks running through downtown—and the special place they hold in the hearts of generations of locals, college students, alumni and visitors—the team at the Clinton House Museum is throwing a special Dickson-themed party.

Oh, lovely Thai food, that beautifully balanced, tantalizing combination of salty, sweet, sour and bitter...ranging from sinus-clearing spicy to delicately flavored. Thai meals are made for group sharing and experimenting with wonderful fresh flavors—plus any leftovers only improve overnight for a next-day snack. Fayetteville is full of authentic Thai restaurants to satisfy even the most seasoned (pun intended) foodie, and we’ve got several to recommend.