Where Fayetteville Takes the Stage Some nights in Fayetteville are made for live performance. You can feel it as people make their way downtown, grabbing dinner before the lights dim at Walton Arts Center or meeting friends at The Commons before a play at TheatreSquared. Whether it's a Broadway musical, a new play, a family performance or a live concert, Fayetteville offers a seat for you. From nationally touring Broadway productions to award-winning theatre, community performances and family-friendly shows, Fayetteville's stages stay busy throughout the year. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or looking for a memorable night out, it's easy to make live performance part of your time in Fayetteville.

There are some names in music that feel larger than life—and then there are the ones that feel like they belong to us. For Arkansas, Levon Helm is both. This summer, Fayetteville has a rare chance to step a little closer to his story. From June 16 through September 6, Walton Arts Center is hosting This Wheel’s Still On Fire: The Legacy of Levon Helm inside the Alexander Gallery at the Porter Art Warehouse. It’s more than an exhibit—it’s a deeply personal look at a musician whose roots run straight through Arkansas soil. Why This Exhibit Feels Different Plenty of music exhibits tell you about an artist. This one feels like it lets you spend time with him. Curated by the Folk Americana Roots Hall of Fame, the exhibit brings together never-before-seen photographs, instruments from members of The Band, tour memorabilia, and personal stories from artists like Bruce Springsteen and Jackson Browne. It’s the kind of collection that doesn’t just highlight a career—it captures a life in motion. And if you’ve ever wanted to sit behind the drum kit and feel a bit of that rhythm yourself, there’s even an interactive piece where you can follow along with a video tutorial from Ramble Band guest drummer Charley Drayton. From Turkey Scratch to the World Stage To understand Levon Helm’s story, you must start where it began—in Turkey Scratch, Arkansas. Long before fame, awards, and sold-out theaters, Helm grew up surrounded by the sounds of the Delta: gospel, blues, and the kind of raw, unfiltered music that sticks with you for life. As a teenager, he left Arkansas to join Ronnie Hawkins and The Hawks, a relentless touring band that cut its teeth in clubs across the South and Canada. That early experience set the foundation for everything that followed. Fayetteville’s Connection: The Rockwood Club Years What many people don’t realize is that Helm’s early touring years also brought him through Fayetteville. In the early 1960s, The Hawks, featuring Helm and led by Ronnie Hawkins, played the legendary Rockwood Club in Fayetteville. These shows weren’t just another stop on the road—they were part of the band’s formative era, when their sound was still evolving night by night in packed, sweat-filled rooms. It was in places like Rockwood that the foundation was laid for what would eventually become The Band, one of the most influential groups in American music history. For Fayetteville, those nights are more than a footnote. They’re a reminder that even before the world knew his name, Levon Helm was already passing through this town, shaping—and being shaped by—the live music culture that still defines it today. A Legacy That Never Really Left Even as his career took him far from Arkansas, Helm never lost that grounding. His later work, including collaborations with Bob Dylan, and the formation of The Band, helped redefine American rock music. After years of touring and recording, Helm eventually created something deeply personal in Woodstock, New York: the Midnight Rambles. These late-night shows weren’t polished concerts—they were living-room style gatherings of music, community, and storytelling. That spirit was rooted in the same kind of musical tradition he grew up around in Arkansas. Even after a throat cancer diagnosis in 1998, Helm returned to music with remarkable strength, releasing Grammy-winning albums and continuing to perform until his passing in 2012. Before he died, he left a simple instruction: “keep it going.” Fayetteville’s Cultural Arts Connection That idea of “keeping it going” still echoes in Fayetteville today. Locals may recognize it in the city’s Cultural Arts Corridor, known as The Ramble—a walkable stretch that connects music, art, and community spaces in the heart of downtown Fayetteville. The name itself is a purposeful, quiet nod to Helm’s Midnight Rambles: informal, creative, rooted in gathering people together through art and sound. It’s not a replica of what Helm created—but it carries the same spirit. Music spilling into shared spaces, artists collaborating across genres, and a community built around showing up for live, local culture. Why It Matters in Fayetteville Helm performed at the Walton Arts Center in 2009 during his Electric Dirt tour—bringing his journey back through Arkansas in a meaningful way. Now, with this exhibition in Fayetteville, his story is being told not just as music history, but as something still actively felt in the place where it all began. Plan Your Visit This Wheel’s Still On Fire: The Legacy of Levon Helm runs June 16 – Sept 6 Located at the Alexander Gallery inside the Porter Art Warehouse in Fayetteville Address: 212 N. West Ave., Fayetteville, AR Opening reception: June 16, 6–8 p.m. (free admission; timed entry reservations required) Gallery hours: Monday–Saturday: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Thursday–Saturday evenings: 5 – 8 p.m. A Story That Still Echoes Here This isn’t just an exhibit about one of the most influential voices in American music. It’s a Fayetteville story, too. A reminder that long before the world called him a legend, Levon Helm was already part of the same musical current that still runs through Arkansas today—and that current still moves through places like The Ramble, where music, art, and community keep showing up for each other.

Some movies stay with you long after the credits roll. The Fayetteville Film Fest is built around those kinds of stories. Each September, filmmakers and movie lovers make their way to downtown Fayetteville for four days of independent films, filmmaker conversations and creative collaboration. Whether you're the first one in line for an indie premiere or just enjoy discovering something different, the festival offers a chance to experience films you won't find at your neighborhood theater. Returning September 16–19, 2026, the 17th annual Fayetteville Film Fest continues a tradition of celebrating independent storytelling while giving audiences the rare opportunity to meet the people behind the films. It's one of those weekends that reminds you why seeing a movie in a room full of strangers still matters. Every Screening Has a Story One of the things that makes the Fayetteville Film Fest different is what happens after the lights come back on. Many screenings are followed by conversations with the filmmakers, giving audiences a chance to hear how an idea became a finished film, ask questions, and learn more about the creative process. Throughout the weekend, the festival also hosts panels, workshops, and networking events that bring filmmakers, students, and film fans together. Even if you've never been to a film festival before, you'll quickly discover it's less formal than you might expect. Come for one screening or spend the entire weekend—you'll leave with a few new favorite films and probably a recommendation or two from someone sitting nearby. Independent Films You Won't Find Everywhere The festival features a wide range of independent films, from feature-length narratives and documentaries to short films, animation, music videos, and student projects. Alongside filmmakers from across the country and around the world, the festival continues to shine a light on Arkansas storytellers and emerging regional talent. You'll probably walk into at least one screening knowing nothing about the film—and that's often where people discover their festival favorites. Explore Downtown Between Screenings One of the best things about the Fayetteville Film Fest is that the festival naturally spills into downtown. Start the morning with coffee at a local café, catch an afternoon screening, browse the shops around the Downtown Square, then meet friends for dinner before settling in for an evening film. Many festival venues are within walking distance of one another, making it easy to enjoy downtown Fayetteville without ever moving your car. By the end of the weekend, you'll probably have a favorite film, a favorite restaurant, and a few reasons to start planning your next visit. Why We Keep Coming Back Film festivals are about more than movies. They're about the conversations that happen afterward, the filmmakers who share the stories behind their work and the excitement of discovering something you weren't expecting. That's what keeps people coming back to the Fayetteville Film Fest year after year. It feels welcoming, creative and distinctly Fayetteville—a weekend where storytelling brings people together. Plan Your Visit The 17th annual Fayetteville Film Fest takes place September 16–19, 2026, in downtown Fayetteville. Whether you're planning to attend a single screening or spend the entire weekend exploring the festival, you'll find plenty to experience beyond the theater, from locally owned restaurants and breweries to public art, live music and Fayetteville's walkable downtown. Frequently Asked Questions When is the Fayetteville Film Fest? The 17th annual Fayetteville Film Fest takes place September 16–19, 2026. Where does the festival take place? Screenings and festival events are held at venues throughout downtown Fayetteville, making it easy to walk between films while enjoying local restaurants, shops and attractions. What kinds of films are shown? From documentaries and feature films to shorts and student projects, every screening is a chance to discover a story you probably wouldn't find at your local theater. Do I have to be a filmmaker to attend? Not at all. The festival welcomes anyone who enjoys movies, storytelling and discovering new voices in independent film. Are there filmmaker Q&A sessions? Yes. Many screenings include conversations with filmmakers, and the festival also hosts workshops, panel discussions, and other special events throughout the weekend. Can I make a weekend trip out of the festival? Absolutely. The festival's downtown location makes it easy to pair screenings with Fayetteville's restaurants, breweries, shops, trails and live music venues, creating a memorable fall getaway in Northwest Arkansas. Are there hotels near the Downtown Square? Yes. Visitors will find several lodging options just minutes from the Downtown Square and festival venues, including Graduate by Hilton overlooking the Square; Moxy Fayetteville, a modern boutique hotel right off the Razorback Greenway; and Dickson Street Inn, just a short walk from the Downtown Square. Additional hotels are available within a few miles, making it easy to stay close to the festival while exploring everything Fayetteville has to offer.

Some of the best nights out in Fayetteville are the ones that give you more than just a place to go. TheatreSquared is one of those places—a nationally recognized professional theatre where you can catch a thought-provoking performance, enjoy dinner and drinks at The Commons Bar/Cafe, or take part in community events throughout the year. Located in downtown Fayetteville, TheatreSquared has become one of the city's favorite destinations for live theatre and creative experiences. The 2026–27 season continues that tradition with a lineup of powerful stories, beloved classics and new works that invite audiences to laugh, reflect and see the world from different perspectives. A Nationally Recognized Theatre in Fayetteville Since opening in 2005, TheatreSquared has grown from a small regional theater into one of the country's most respected professional theatres. The company has earned national recognition, including a 2022 Obie Award, and has received praise from publications and organizations including The New York Times, The New Yorker, The Wall Street Journal, NPR and the American Theater Wing. But what makes TheatreSquared special is not just the recognition—it is the experience. The intimate theatre setting brings audiences closer to the performers and the stories unfolding on stage, creating a connection you don't always find in larger venues. Experience the 2026–27 Season TheatreSquared's upcoming season features a mix of dramas, comedies and thought-provoking productions, beginning with August Wilson's Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winning play Fences. The 2026–27 Main Stage season includes: Fences – September 9-27, 2026 - In 1950s Pittsburgh, Troy Maxson built fences to protect his family. But what happens when those walls keep dreams out? August Wilson's masterwork is an explosively funny and heartbreaking portrait of an American family, following a former Negro League baseball star as his dreams collide with his son's aspirations. Little Women - November 18-December 13, 2026 - From the playwright of I and You, The Half-Life of Marie Curie, and Christmas at Pemberley, this brilliant adaptation follows the beloved March sisters as they navigate universal coming-of-age issues like sibling rivalry, ambition, and first love. Cowboys and East Indians - February 3-28, 2027 - Following its development at TheatreSquared's Arkansas New Play Festival and subsequent premiere at Denver Center for the Performing Arts, COWBOYS AND EAST INDIANS returns to the community where it was born. Warm, funny, and deeply recognizable, this is a story about being caught between worlds, between generations, and between India and Wyoming. The 39 Steps - April 7-25, 2027 - Imagine Alfred Hitchcock directed by Monty Python—that's The 39 Steps. This two-time Tony and Drama Desk Award-winner is a love letter to spy movies, using a ridiculously talented cast of four playing 150+ characters—heroes, villains, sheep, inanimate objects. Pure romance. Pure magic. Pure fun. Eureka Day - June 2-20, 2027 - Winner of the 2025 Tony Award for Best Revival of a Play, this razor-sharp satire explores what happens when well-meaning parents try to agree on a solution that's best for everyone. Nobody's the villain. Everybody has a point. Eureka Day asks: What do we owe each other when we can't agree on the facts? TheatreSquared also welcomes families with its Family Series, featuring productions that introduce younger audiences to the excitement of live theatre. This season's shows, Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some) and A Year with Frog and Toad, give families a reason to make a trip to the theatre together. From date night or a night out with friends to a family outing, TheatreSquared's season offers plenty of opportunities to experience live theatre in Fayetteville. Make It Dinner and a Show at The Commons One of the best parts of a TheatreSquared visit is that the evening can begin before the performance. Located inside the theatre, The Commons Bar & Café offers a convenient spot to enjoy dinner, drinks or a pre-show bite without having to travel across town. Arrive early for a meal, meet friends for a drink or stay after the show to talk about your favorite moments from the performance. The Commons makes TheatreSquared more than just a place to see a show—it creates a gathering place where people can slow down and enjoy the evening. More Than Performances TheatreSquared is also a place where the community comes together outside of the main stage. Throughout the year, the theatre hosts special events, workshops, conversations and gatherings that invite audiences to connect through creativity and shared experiences. From theatre discussions and artist events to community gatherings, these programs offer another way to experience TheatreSquared and become part of Fayetteville's arts community. Spend an Evening in Downtown Fayetteville TheatreSquared is located near the heart of downtown Fayetteville, making it easy to pair a performance with the rest of the city. Grab dinner, explore local shops, enjoy happy hour or take a stroll through downtown before or after your show. For visitors looking to experience Fayetteville's arts and culture scene, a TheatreSquared performance offers a chance to see why the city continues to be recognized as a destination for creativity and entertainment. Frequently Asked Questions What is TheatreSquared? TheatreSquared is a professional nonprofit theatre company located in downtown Fayetteville, Arkansas. It produces a variety of plays, musicals and community programs throughout the year. Where is TheatreSquared located? TheatreSquared is located in downtown Fayetteville, making it convenient to nearby restaurants, entertainment and other attractions. What shows are part of TheatreSquared's 2026–27 season? The 2026–27 season includes productions such as Fences, Little Women, Cowboys and East Indians, The 39 Steps and Eureka Day. What is The Commons at TheatreSquared? The Commons Bar & Café is the theatre's in-house restaurant and gathering space, offering food and drinks before performances and throughout the week. Can I have dinner or drinks before a TheatreSquared show? Yes. Many visitors arrive early to enjoy a meal or drink at The Commons before the performance begins. Drinks are allowed in the theatre during the show. Are there things to do near TheatreSquared? Absolutely. TheatreSquared is located near downtown Fayetteville, where visitors can enjoy restaurants, breweries, shopping, public art and nightlife before or after a show. Can I make a weekend trip around a TheatreSquared performance? Yes. A TheatreSquared performance pairs well with a Fayetteville getaway. Visitors can explore downtown, enjoy local dining and experience more of the city's arts, culture, and outdoor attractions.

Arkansas Music Week returns to Fayetteville, Arkansas for a week-long celebration of local music, culture, and creativity! What is Arkansas Music Week? Presented by Arkansas Music Experience in partnership with Experience Fayetteville and the Downtown Fayetteville Coalition, the event features live performances, special events, exhibits, artist showcases, and music industry programming throughout downtown Fayetteville. From local musicians to nationally recognized artists, Arkansas Music Week showcases why Fayetteville is one of Arkansas's premier destinations for live music and cultural experiences. The Fayetteville, Arkansas Music Scene Fayetteville has long been one of Arkansas's most vibrant music destinations, known for its independent venues, local artists, festivals, and year-round live performances. The city's thriving arts and entertainment scene has made it a hub for musicians and music lovers alike, and Arkansas Music Week celebrates this legacy by bringing together performers, industry professionals, and visitors from across the state. Things to Do During Arkansas Music Week Attend live music performances throughout downtown Fayetteville Discover Arkansas musicians and emerging artists Explore exhibits and special events hosted by Arkansas Music Experience Experience Fayetteville's vibrant arts and entertainment scene Enjoy local restaurants, breweries, and nightlife between performances Explore Fayetteville's live music venues and cultural attractions Planning Your Visit to Arkansas Music Week Visiting from out of town? Fayetteville offers hotels, locally owned restaurants, outdoor recreation, and a thriving arts scene. Explore: Places to Stay Restaurants & Bars Things to Do in Fayetteville Downtown Fayetteville Shopping Guide Live Music Venues Upcoming Events Frequently Asked Questions When is Arkansas Music Week 2026? Arkansas Music Week takes place August 23–30, 2026. Where is Arkansas Music Week held? Events take place throughout downtown Fayetteville, Arkansas. Is Arkansas Music Week free? Many events are free and open to the public, while select events may require tickets or registration. What kind of music is featured? Arkansas Music Week celebrates a variety of genres and highlights Arkansas's diverse musical heritage and contemporary music scene. What is Arkansas Music Experience? Arkansas Music Experience is an organization dedicated to preserving and celebrating Arkansas's musical history and culture. Why is Fayetteville known for live music? Fayetteville is home to a vibrant music scene featuring local venues, festivals, and year-round performances that showcase artists from Arkansas and beyond.

Live theater is a big part of Fayetteville's arts scene, and every Broadway season brings another reason to plan a night downtown. The Walton Arts Center's 2026/27 Broadway Series features six nationally touring productions, including five Arkansas premieres, with performances running from September through July. One of the highlights of Fayetteville's arts and entertainment scene, the Broadway Series draws visitors from across Arkansas and neighboring states throughout the season. Many theatergoers make an evening of it by enjoying dinner on Dickson Street, exploring downtown Fayetteville or extending their visit with an overnight stay. It's one of the best ways to experience Fayetteville's vibrant arts, dining and nightlife scene all in one trip. In addition to the six-show Broadway Series, this season also features five Broadway Add-On performances, giving audiences even more opportunities to experience nationally touring productions without leaving Northwest Arkansas. The 2026/27 Broadway Series begins in September 2026 and continues through July 2027. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or looking for an unforgettable night out, there's a performance waiting for you at Walton Arts Center. 2026/27 Broadway Series The Outsiders | September 1–6, 2026 (Arkansas Premiere) The winner of four 2024 Tony Awards®, including best musical, is The Outsiders. This classic coming-of-age story takes you to Tulsa, Oklahoma in 1967, where Ponyboy Curtis, his best friend Johnny Cade and their family of Greaser “outsiders” dream about who they want to become in a world that will never accept them. The Outsiders features Danya Taymor’s Tony Award-winning direction that’s “refreshing, gritty and endlessly effective” (The New York Times). With “high-octane choreography” (New York Magazine), The Outsiders has been described as “more pulse-pounding than anything else on Broadway!” (Time Out New York). Recommended for ages 10 and up. Buena Vista Social Club™ | December 15–20, 2026 (Arkansas Premiere) It’s been years since legendary singer Omara Portuondo last entered a recording studio. Once known as the “Queen of Feeling,” her voice was celebrated throughout Cuba – until she vanished from the spotlight. But when an ambitious young record producer brings her a rare opportunity, the elusive diva must finally reckon with her past. Hailed as a “jaw-dropping, soul-stirring must see” (The Washington Post), the Tony® and Grammy® award-winning Buena Vista Social Club™ is a journey through music and memory into the beating heart of Havana. A world-class company brings the story of the iconic album to thrilling life in this tale of big dreams, second changes and music that needs no translation. Recommended for ages 8 and up. The Notebook | February 24–28, 2027 (Arkansas Premiere) Based on the best-selling novel that inspired the iconic film, The Notebook tells the story of Allie and Noah, both from different worlds, who share a lifetime of love despite the forces that threaten to pull them apart. “Full of butterfly-inducing highs and beautiful songs” (Entertainment Weekly), The Notebook is a deeply moving portrait of the enduring power of love. Chris Jones of the Chicago Tribune says The Notebook is “absolutely gorgeous, not to be missed,” and The New York Daily News calls it “a love story for the ages.” The Notebook is directed by Michael Greif (Dear Evan Hansen, Next to Normal, RENT) and Schele Williams (The Wiz, Aida), and features music and lyrics by multi-Platinum® singer-songwriter Ingrid Michaelson, book by Bekah Brunstetter (NBC’s “This is Us”) and choreography by Katie Spelman. Recommended for ages 10 and up. The Sound of Music | April 13–18, 2027 For 65 years, The Sound of Music has been one of our “favorite things.” With its timeless story and irresistibly charming score, this Rogers & Hammerstein classic isn’t just meant to be enjoyed – it's meant to be shared. Directed by three-time Tony Award® winner Jack O’Brien (Hairspray), this vibrant and romantic tale of Maria and the von Trapp family features beloved songs like “Do-Re-Me,” “Sixteen Going on Seventeen” and Edelweiss.” Recommended for ages 7 and up. Operation Mincemeat: A New Musical | May 25–30, 2027 (Arkansas Premiere) How did a dead body, a fake love letter and – of people – Ian Fleming turn the tide of WWII? Olivier Award® winner for best new musical and a 2025 Tony® winner, Operation Mincemeat: A New Musical is the best-reviewed show in West End history with 88 five-star reviews and the No. 1 Broadway show of 2025 (Entertainment Weekly). It’s 1943 and the Allies are on the ropes. Luckily, they’re about to gamble our futures on a stolen corpse. Singin’ In the Rain meets Strangers on a Train, it’s the fast-paced, hilarious true story of the secret mission that won WWII. Recommended for ages 5 and up. Just in Time | July 6–11, 2027 (Arkansas Premiere) Brilliant. Complicated. Darin. Just In Time, the acclaimed "runaway hit" (Variety) that is taking Broadway by storm, will make a splash in Northwest Arkansas. An “utterly electrifying” (Entertainment Weekly) new musical, Just In Time brings to life the story of Bobby Darin, the legendary singer whose short but remarkable journey took him from teen idol to global sensation. Packed with his biggest hits, including “Beyond the Sea,” “Mack the Knife,” “Splish Splash” and “Dream Lover,” Just In Time is “a helluva good time at the theater” (Time Out) and a “wallop of joy” (NY Post). Recommended for ages 10 and up. Broadway Add-On Performances Dirty Dancing | October 21–25, 2026 Jersey Boys | November 27–29, 2026 Hadestown | Feb. 5-7, 2027 Kinky Boots | April 30–May 2, 2027 Beetlejuice | June 4–6, 2027 Frequently Asked Questions When does the Walton Arts Center Broadway Series begin? The 2026/27 Broadway Series begins in September 2026 with The Outsiders and continues through July 2027, bringing nationally touring productions to downtown Fayetteville throughout the season. Where is Walton Arts Center located? Walton Arts Center is located in the heart of downtown Fayetteville at 495 W. Dickson Street, just steps from restaurants, shops, entertainment and the University of Arkansas campus. How do I buy tickets for Broadway shows in Fayetteville? Tickets can be purchased through the Walton Arts Center Box Office or online. Broadway Series subscribers receive the best seating options and early access to select performances. Is there parking at Walton Arts Center? Yes. Several public parking garages, surface lots and on-street parking options are available within a short walk of Walton Arts Center. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early, especially on performance nights. What restaurants are near Walton Arts Center? Downtown Fayetteville offers dozens of restaurants within walking distance of Walton Arts Center. Popular choices include Bordinos, Theo's, Doe’s Eat Place, Farrell’s Lounge, The Leroy, and Hammontree's. Can I make a weekend trip out of a Broadway show? Absolutely! Many visitors pair a Broadway performance with shopping on Dickson Street, exploring the Fayetteville Square, visiting local attractions or spending the night at one of Fayetteville's hotels. Are Broadway shows at Walton Arts Center family-friendly? Many Broadway productions are appropriate for families, though recommended ages vary by show. Check the individual show's page for age recommendations and content advisories before purchasing tickets.