5 Events You Didn't Know About in Little Rock, AR

Being the capital of Arkansas, Little Rock’s always got something going on. While our city is a great place to host your next meeting or convention, we thought you might want about some well known—and lesser known— fun things to check out. Here are just five of the many Little Rock events that you might not know about.

1.) The World Cheese Dip Championship

Did you know Arkansas is the birthplace of cheese dip? Arkansans love cheese dip, to the point that it’s served at nearly every restaurant. In 2009 the World Cheese Dip Championship was started, and it quickly grew into what is nationally recognized as one of the best family friendly food festivals in the country. It’s even sparked a friendly state rivalry on Capitol Hill! (We’ll continue to hold on to our victory, Texas.) Attend the annual festival, taste the various competing cheese dips and vote for your favorite!

Woman serving melted cheese with gloves on from a fondue pot to festival attendees at the World Cheese Dip Championship in Little Rock AK

2.) Big Dam 100

The Big Dam 100 is Arkansas’s largest cycling event! Attracting over 3,500 cyclists from across the country every year, this event celebrates the “Big Dam Bridge” over the Arkansas River. Spanning over 4000 feet, the BDB is North America’s longest bridge built specifically for pedestrian and bicycle traffic. The Big Dam 100 has multiple routes ranging from 15 miles to 100 miles, all with scenic river and mountain views. This event also includes The Big Dam 100 Block Party celebration with live music, food and drink.

Two people riding bikes on the Big Dam Bridge during a race holding their hands into the air celebrating.

3.) Arkansas Cornbread Festival

Listed among Forbes’ “Top 5 Fall Food Festivals in the US” for 2019, this festival draws thousands every year. Arrive hungry and be prepared to taste some of the best cornbread made by locals. Enjoy live music and sample local brews while you’re there. Fit in with the pros by taking a muffin tin – it makes sampling super easy and fun. The Arkansas Cornbread Festival has something for everyone to enjoy.

A 50's style cartoon corn bread mascot in a cast iron pan posing for a picture with two people and their dog at an outdoor festival.

4.) SoMa Mustache & Beard Competition

Hosted by The Arkansas Times and The Root Café, this competition for the best facial hair is part of the SoMa (South Main Street) Mardi Gras celebration. Hundreds of men come to show off their stylish manes. You can also take in the SoMardi Gras parade, followed by live music. The event is held every February around Mardi Gras weekend.

A person with a sculpted beard and mustache curled at both ends with a circle shape in their beard.

5.) Historic Arkansas Museum Nog Off

Every December the Historic Arkansas Museum hosts a friendly competition to see who can make the best eggnog. The event includes four different categories for vendors to participate in, including; Taster’s Choice, People’s Choice, “The Egg” (Best Non-Alcoholic), and the “Not your Great, Great, Great Grandfather’s Eggnog” (Best Unconventional).

These are just a few of the events that happen in Little rock. No matter what time of year you’re considering holding a meeting here, chances are there’ll be a festival or event that your attendees can enjoy.