Pops on the River

Celebrate Independence Day in Arkansas’s Capital City.

Pops on the River is Little Rock’s largest Independence Day celebration. This free event is presented by the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette and brings locals and out-of-towners to downtown Little Rock. Enjoy an evening of family-friendly fun that culminates in an impressive fireworks display over the Main Street bridge at 9:15 p.m.

Festive Activities

Get ready to for a 4th of July celebration packed full of fun activities and entertainment, including multiple music performances, culminating in a concert by the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra and a colorful fireworks display.

  • Vendor Marketplace & Food Trucks – Satisfy your taste buds with the diverse culinary offerings from a variety of food trucks and explore the shops at the Vendor Marketplace.
  • Military Appreciation Tent – Active, retired or dependent Military members can visit the Military Appreciation Tent to receive giveaways and a discount card to use with vendors at Pops on the River. The first 100 members to check-in at the tent will receive free reserved seating!
  • Patriotic Concert – Watch captivating live performances by Midnight South, Kemistri Band featuring Nicky Parrish, Rodney Block Collective, and the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra.
  • Fireworks – At 9:15 p.m. the Pops on the River Fireworks finale lights up the night sky above the Main Street Bridge, visible over the entire downtown area of Little Rock.

Tips for a Spectacular 4th of July

Come Early

We recommend coming early to get good parking for the night. Gates to the First Security Amphitheater open at 5 p.m. Chairs and blankets are welcome. There will be plenty of food and beverage vendors open, as well as opportunities for entertainment and air conditioning throughout the afternoon. While you wait for the fireworks, take advantage of the River Market Entertainment District.

Getting Here

The Main Street Bridge will be closed from 1 p.m. – 10 p.m., and the Rock Region METRO Streetcar will not be in operation, so please plan accordingly if coming from North Little Rock.

Parking

The Central Parking Lot at the River Market (located behind Rev Room) will be closed. Public parking is available throughout the River Market District and downtown. For details on River Market District Parking, click here. For details on other parking options throughout downtown, click here.

Bring Bug Spray

Keep in mind that, due to the delicate nature of our riverfront ecosystem, the area is not sprayed for insects. If bugs bug you, bring your own bug spray.

Keep Hydrated

Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the afternoon. Visit the splash pads in Riverfront Park with the kids for a quick cool down or enjoy one of the many restaurants open for a refresher. Emergency services will be onsite at First Security Amphitheater from 3 p.m. – 10 p.m. for emergencies.

Pets

We all love our furry family members, but they don’t always love fireworks. For the safety of everyone, pets are not allowed at Pops on the River.

Make A Weekend Out Of It

Kick off your Independence Day weekend celebrations early in Little Rock with a River Market Live! Special Edition: Divas on the River.

Wednesday, July 3 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
River Market Pavilions
400 President Clinton Ave Little Rock, Arkansas 72201

This pre-4th of July event will feature a special edition titled "Divas on the River," serving as a pre-show for “Pops on the River.”
Music performances by Dee Dee Jones, Nicky Parrish, Tawanna Campbell, and Butterfly. Their performance will feature a mix of original and cover songs spanning various genres.

Food and beverages will be available for purchase.

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