Welcome to 501 FEST 2025—where our community comes alive on 501 Day. Join us for a day of live entertainment, local vendors, delicious food, and family-friendly fun that celebrates the heart of our city.
Event Schedule
DAY 1: FRIDAY (The Kickoff)
Slappetizer Competition : 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Ron Robinson Alley Way
Library Square, 100 River Market Ave, Little Rock, AR 72201
Get ready to set the vibe for the weekend with a high-energy evening celebration! We’re back with the SLAPPETIZER Culinary Competition, informative panels, and live music partnership events to get the weekend started!
Talking Panels: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
CALS Library Theater
Library Square, 401 President Clinton Ave, Little Rock, AR 72201
Get ready for real conversations that matter to the heart of our city. The 501FEST Talking Panels bring together a powerful mix of voices from across the community—city directors, local athletes, banking professionals, lawyers, educators, entrepreneurs, and community activists—to discuss the issues, ideas, and initiatives shaping life in Central Arkansas.
These panels are a chance to hear directly from the people who are working to move our neighborhoods, our youth, and our city forward. Topics will range from financial empowerment and civic engagement to sports, equity, and the future of our communities.
This isn’t just a talk-it’s a space for connection, collaboration, and clarity. Whether you're a leader, a learner, or just want to get more involved, these conversations are designed to inform and inspire.
Come listen, ask questions, and be part of the dialogue that drives change.
Additional Dates:
