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Stay up to date with the latest news and stories happening in Downtown Bentonville.

News & Press Releases

Fall season arrives for October First Friday

Oct 8, 2026 - Downtown Bentonville Inc. will close out the 2026 First Friday Live presented by Walmart season with one final celebration for the year on Friday, October 2, bringing live music, local vendors, food trucks, interactive experiences, and more to the Bentonville Square and surrounding streets.

DWTN Now Becomes Bentonville Now

Sep 25, 2026 - After six years of sharing the people, places and stories of Downtown Bentonville, DWTN Now is becoming Bentonville Now.

Local Music Shines at September First Friday

Sep 21, 2026 - As the First Friday Live season begins to wind down, September First Friday Live Presented by Walmart is bringing another exciting evening of live music, local makers, delicious food, and family-friendly fun to downtown Bentonville!

Downtown Bentonville Inc. to Premiere Original Documentary “Because of the Tigers”

Aug 6, 2026 - Downtown Bentonville Incorporated (DBI) and DWTN Now are rolling out the red carpet for the community premiere of Because of the Tigers, an original 47-minute documentary that tells the remarkable story of Bentonville High School's unforgettable 2001 football season.

Party Like It’s 1999 at August First Friday

Aug 5, 2026 - August First Friday Live Presented by Walmart is bringing another exciting evening of live music, local makers, delicious food, and family-friendly fun to Downtown Bentonville!

Celebrate America’s 250th Birthday at July First Friday

Jul 1, 2026 - Get ready for an unforgettable First Friday Live Presented by Walmart as downtown Bentonville comes alive with patriotic spirit, family-friendly fun, and community celebration!

Bentonville to Showcase Local Talent at ‘First Friday Live’

May 26, 2026 - Downtown Bentonville Inc.’s First Friday Live presented by Walmart is back on May 1 with Bentonville’s Got Talent, a celebration of local talent, competition, and community spirit.

Bentonville Farmers Market Deemed Top 10 Market by USA Today

Apr 22, 2026 - Downtown Bentonville Inc. is proud to announce that the Bentonville Farmers Market has been named a USA Today 10BEST Readers’ Choice Award winner in the “Best Farmers Market” category.

The Bentonville Farmers Market Returns April 11

Apr 15, 2026 - The Bentonville Farmers Market, presented by Arvest, returns April 11th! Downtown Bentonville Inc. is proud to welcome back more than 100 local farmers and makers for another season of fresh flavors, handmade goods, and community spirit.

First Friday Returns with ‘First Friday Live’

Apr 15, 2026 - Downtown Bentonville Inc.’s First Friday presented by Walmart is making its return on April 3rd under the new season-long theme ‘First Friday Live.’ The free, family-friendly festival will have a fresh focus on live music, performance, and immersive entertainment.

Bentonville Farmers Market Nominated for USA Today Award Following Consecutive Record-Breaking Years

Mar 16, 2026 - Downtown Bentonville Inc. is excited to announce the Bentonville Farmers Market has been nominated for Best Farmers Market as part of USA Today’s 10BEST Reader Choice awards.

The Bentonville Christmas Parade Heading to TV

Dec 15, 2025 - As a gift to the community, Emmy-nominated DWTN Now is preparing to bring the magic of the 2025 Bentonville Christmas Parade to televisions across Northwest Arkansas.

Bentonville Farmers Market Breaks Record with $3 Million in Sales

Oct 30, 2025 - For the fourth consecutive season, the Bentonville Farmers Market has set a sales record, this year the market topped $3 million in sales.

DWTN Now Earns Second Emmy Nomination, Announces Network Change to ABC 40/29 (KHBS/KHOG)

Oct 1, 2025

Fright Night Fun Hits Bentonville's First Friday

Oct 1, 2025

Bentonville Becomes Superhero City at First Friday

Sep 2, 2025

Enter the Capital of Cool at August First Friday

Jul 29, 2025

Celebrate the Land of the Free During July First Friday

Jul 1, 2025

Community Invited to Relaunch Pickin’ on the Square

Jun 10, 2025

Festival of Nations Takes Over Downtown During 3-Day Event

Jun 6, 2025

May First Friday Is Here!!

Apr 28, 2025 - Family fun is back in Downtown Bentonville with the return of First Friday presented by Walmart on May 2nd.

Developers: Downtown Bentonville Project Balances New Opportunities With Historic Character

Apr 25, 2025 - Blue Crane and Riverside unveil a new mixed-use development in downtown Bentonville that blends historic preservation with modern living, retail, and community spaces.

Bentonville Farmers Market Returns

Apr 7, 2025 - The Bentonville Farmers Market returns April 12 with over 130 vendors, running weekly through October 25, and continuing its record-setting success in the heart of downtown.

Dave & Jenny Marrs Announce Grand Opening Of Second Store, Marrs On Main, In Downtown Bentonville

Apr 3, 2025 - Dave and Jenny Marrs open Marrs On Main in downtown Bentonville, a new home goods store offering curated, timeless pieces and community charm.

Dbi Cancels First Friday Due To Severe Weather

Apr 2, 2025 - Downtown Bentonville Inc. cancels the April 4 First Friday event due to forecasted storms, prioritizing community safety ahead of a busy spring season.

The Return Of First Friday Is This Week!

Mar 31, 2025 - Downtown Bentonville's First Friday returns April 4 with live music, food, art, and a special KAWS: FAMILY activation by Crystal Bridges Museum.

First Friday Returns With A ‘Passport To Adventure’ In ‘25

Mar 3, 2025 - Downtown Bentonville’s First Friday returns April 4 with a new “Passport to Adventure” theme, featuring seven uniquely themed events through October.

DBI Moves Office To New Location On Main Street

Feb 3, 2025 - Downtown Bentonville Inc. has moved to 111 South Main Street, positioning its team at the heart of downtown to better serve and grow community events.

ABC4029

Families Celebrate Christmas Night at Downtown Bentonville Square

Feb 2, 2025

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A Capacity Crowd Expected To Ring In ‘25 At Downtown Bentonville Incorporated’s 2nd Annual Nye Event

Dec 30, 2024 - Downtown Bentonville Inc. rings in 2025 with a sold-out NYE party at Ledger, featuring dancing, drinks, and entertainment to support downtown events.

A Capacity Crowd Expected to Ring in ‘25 at Downtown Bentonville Incorporated’s 2nd Annual NYE Event

Dec 30, 2024

‘Marrs On Main’ Is Coming To Downtown Bentonville

Dec 14, 2024 - Dave and Jenny Marrs announce Marrs on Main, a new retail store opening in spring 2025 in downtown Bentonville, featuring artisan goods, antiques, and home decor.

The Bentonville Christmas Parade Rolls Through Downtown Bentonville; Highlight Show To Follow On Christmas Morning

Dec 10, 2024 - The Bentonville Christmas Parade returns December 14 with over 100 floats, festive fun, and a special appearance by Santa, presented by KINGART®.

Following A 3rd Consecutive Record-Breaking Year, The Bentonville Farmers Market Transitions Indoors

Nov 20, 2024 - The Bentonville Farmers Market hits a record-breaking $2.9 million in sales and announces a 15-date indoor winter season starting November 23.

The Holidays Are Here!! The City Of Bentonville Is Set To Light The Square

Nov 18, 2024 - Downtown Bentonville’s Lighting of the Square returns this Saturday with live performances, Santa photos, and a dazzling light display flipped on by Mayor Orman.

Bentonville Mayoral Candidates Face Off On Dwtn Now

Oct 2, 2024 - Mayor Stephanie Orman and challenger Steve Galen will debate on DWTN Now, airing October 6 and 20 on 5NEWS, with subtitles in Spanish and Hindi.

‘Spooktacular’ Wraps Up The First Friday Season In Downtown Bentonville

Oct 1, 2024 - Downtown Bentonville’s First Friday returns October 6 with Halloween games, a costume contest, live music, free candy, and spooky surprises for all ages.

Watch The 2024 Bentonville Mayoral Debate On October 6th

Sep 23, 2024 - Bentonville mayoral candidates Stephanie Orman and Steve Galen will face off in a 30-minute unedited debate airing on DWTN Now and 5NEWS, starting October 6.

Gather To Scatter Provides Support For Pop! Program At The Bentonville Farmers Market

Sep 9, 2024 - Downtown Bentonville Inc. partners with Gather to Scatter to support the Pop! Activity Club, helping kids access fresh produce at the Farmers Market.

First Friday Bringing ‘Adrenaline’ To Downtown Bentonville

Sep 4, 2024 - Downtown Bentonville’s First Friday returns September 6 with adrenaline-pumping fun, live music, the Globe of Death, and an Elton John tribute performance.

Bentonville’s Downtown Square Gets First Look At The Renovated Walmart Museum Exterior

Aug 29, 2024 - Walmart reveals the updated exterior of its Bentonville museum as scaffolding comes down, with a full reopening planned for March 2025.

The Bentonville Farmers Market Is #1 In Arkansas For 2nd Straight Year

Aug 6, 2024 - The Bentonville Farmers Market is named Arkansas’ Best Farmers Market for the second year in a row by American Farmland Trust, with celebrations underway this weekend.

First Friday Is Going For The Gold!

Jul 29, 2024 - Downtown Bentonville’s First Friday returns August 2 with Olympic-themed fun, ‘Bentonville’s Got Talent,’ and a headline performance by Barrett Baber.

Downtown Bentonville Commerce Remains As Construction Continues

Jul 12, 2024 - Despite ongoing construction, Downtown Bentonville businesses remain open—DBI and the Chamber urge the community to shop local and support small businesses.

The Independence Day Holiday Continues With First Friday Followed By City Of Bentonville’s Firework Display

Jul 5, 2024 - Downtown Bentonville’s First Friday on July 5 features a patriotic festival, Mustang flyover, and Mother’s Cookies carnival—followed by fireworks at Orchards Park.

It’s A Salute To Service This Friday In Downtown Bentonville

Jul 1, 2024 - First Friday returns July 5 with a patriotic ‘Salute to Service,’ featuring a Mustang flyover, live music, veteran-owned vendors, and a carnival experience by Mother’s Cookies.

Calling All NWA, First Friday Returns!

Jun 3, 2024 - First Friday returns June 7 with a fashion-themed celebration honoring NWA storm responders, featuring a runway show, live music, yoga, and community festivities.

May First Friday Explores The ‘Outdoor Adventure’ In Bentonville

Apr 29, 2024 - Downtown Bentonville’s May 3 First Friday celebrates ‘Outdoor Adventure’ with camping gear demos, sugar-free Splenda drinks, live music, and free yoga.

Following A Record-Breaking Season, The Bentonville Farmers Market Returns

Apr 9, 2024 - The Bentonville Farmers Market returns April 13 with 100+ vendors, food trucks, and monthly events, running every Saturday through October 26.

The Wait Is Finally Over, First Friday Returns To Downtown Bentonville!

Apr 1, 2024 - First Friday returns April 5 with a solar eclipse-themed celebration, live DJ sets, dairy-free delights from Daiya Foods, and family-friendly fun on the Bentonville Square.

Downtown Bentonville Incorporated Welcomes New Board Members And Executive Committee Additions For 2024

Mar 15, 2024 - Downtown Bentonville Inc. welcomes four new board members and announces its 2024 Executive Committee to guide strategic growth and community support.

Downtown Bentonville Incorporated Welcomes Walmart As Presenting Sponsor Of first Friday

Feb 26, 2024 - Downtown Bentonville’s First Friday returns April 5, now presented by Walmart, with expanded experiences, live entertainment, and family-friendly fun through October.

Watch The 2023 Bentonville Christmas Parade On Christmas Morning

Dec 20, 2023 - The Bentonville Christmas Parade airs on CBS Christmas morning at 9 a.m., featuring 100+ floats in a special DWTN Now broadcast produced by Downtown Bentonville Inc.

The Holidays Continue As Downtown Bentonville Hosts Annual Christmas Parade

Dec 4, 2023 - The Bentonville Christmas Parade returns December 9 with over 100 floats, a new extended route, and a festive 'Merry and Bright' theme for families to enjoy.

Small Business Saturday Surprise! Shop The Block Injecting $10,000 Into Downtown Businesses Next Weekend

Nov 17, 2023 - Downtown Bentonville Inc. celebrates Small Business Saturday with Shop the Block, giving away $10,000 in Downtown Dollars to support local shops on November 25.

City Of Bentonville’s Lighting Of The Square Is Saturday, With A Surprise Laser Light Show

Nov 14, 2023 - Downtown Bentonville’s Lighting of the Square returns November 18 with 30 miles of lights, live music, Santa photos, a holiday laser show, and festive family fun.

Outdoor Records Set, As The Bentonville Farmers Market Moves Indoors

Nov 10, 2023 - The Bentonville Farmers Market breaks $2 million in sales for 2023 and returns indoors with Market @ Record starting November 18 for a 15-week winter season.

Shop The Block - Small Business Saturday

Oct 20, 2023 - Shop the Block returns on Small Business Saturday, November 25 from 11 AM–2 PM, featuring over 35 local Bentonville shops, restaurants, and experiences.

The Bentonville Farmers Market Hosts Shop The Market This Saturday

Oct 17, 2023 - Shop the Market returns October 21 with $2,400 in free Market Cash for families to spend at Bentonville Farmers Market vendor booths—first come, first serve.

As Downtown Construction Projects Continue, Small Businesses Remain Open

Oct 11, 2023 - Despite ongoing construction in downtown Bentonville, local businesses remain open—DBI urges the community to continue supporting shops and restaurants during the transition.

Downtown Bentonville Hosts ‘Oktoberfest’ First Friday

Oct 2, 2023 - Downtown Bentonville’s final First Friday of 2023 on October 6 goes Oktoberfest-style with live music, beer garden, caramel contest, and family-friendly fun.

Learn More About Accessible Shuttle Service, Sensory Alley, And Bike Valet At Big Downtown Events

Oct 2, 2023 - Downtown Bentonville events now offer free ADA shuttle service, a calming Sensory Alley, and bike valet to ensure inclusive, fun experiences for all attendees.

Kris Allen Joins Bentonville First Friday September 1st

Aug 28, 2023 - First Friday returns September 1 with an “In Motion” theme, Segway demos, trampoline shows, and a headline performance by American Idol winner Kris Allen.

It’s Time To Go ‘Back To School’ At August First Friday

Jul 31, 2023 - First Friday returns August 4 with a ‘Back to School’ bash featuring a Hostess donettes eating contest, student performances, food trucks, and free yoga on the square.

First Friday Returns To Downtown Bentonville

Jul 3, 2023 - First Friday on July 7 celebrates ‘The Great Outdoors’ with s’mores, country music headliner David Adam Byrnes, DJ Williams as emcee, and outdoor-themed fun.

Accessible Shuttle Service Beginning At DBI Events

Jul 3, 2023 - Downtown Bentonville Inc. offers free ADA-accessible shuttle service for First Friday and holiday events, ensuring inclusive access for community members with mobility challenges.

Walmart Continues Support Of Downtown Bentonville

Jun 20, 2023 - Downtown Bentonville Inc. receives a generous Walmart grant to support community events like First Friday, the Farmers Market, and holiday celebrations throughout 2023.

First Friday In June Welcomes ‘Art Fest’

May 30, 2023 - First Friday on June 2 brings ‘Art Fest’ to downtown Bentonville, featuring over 80 local artists, live DJs, Hershey’s treats, and even kitten yoga on the square.

Pet-A-Palooza’ Returns To First Friday In May

May 1, 2023 - Downtown Bentonville’s First Friday returns May 5 with Pet-A-Palooza—featuring a pet parade, talent show, stuffy clinic, petting zoo, kitten yoga, and Heartland Dueling Pianos.

As Bentonville Farmers Market On Saturday Sets Records, The Thursday Market Returns

Apr 28, 2023 - After a record-breaking Saturday season, Bentonville’s Thursday Farmers Market returns for evening shopping and local goods.

The City Of Bentonville And Downtown Bentonville Incorporated Host Bentonville together: A Celebration Of Our Multicultural Community

Apr 24, 2023 - Celebrate culture and community at Bentonville Together on April 29 at Orchards Park, featuring multicultural performances, activities, and family-friendly fun.

Dwtn Now’ Moves To KFSM-TV

Apr 5, 2023 - DWTN Now returns for Season 3 on April 8, airing Sundays on 5News with inspiring stories about life, culture, and community in downtown Bentonville.

The Saturday Farmers Market Returns To Downtown Bentonville

Apr 4, 2023 - Downtown Bentonville Farmers Market returns April 8 with 80+ vendors, weekly fun, and themed events through October 28 on the historic Bentonville Square.

First Friday Returns To Downtown Bentonville

Apr 3, 2023 - Downtown Bentonville’s First Friday returns April 7 with food trucks, local talent, and a live performance by Madison Watkins to celebrate the city’s 150th anniversary.

Aaron Nolan Joins Downtown Bentonville Incorporated As Communications Director

Mar 8, 2023 - Downtown Bentonville Inc. welcomes award-winning journalist Aaron Nolan as Communications Director to lead storytelling efforts and the DWTN Now weekly TV show.

Downtown Bentonville Announces 2023 First Friday Season Fueled By Zoa Energy

Mar 3, 2023 - Downtown Bentonville Inc. kicks off the 2023 First Friday season on April 7th with themed, family-friendly events running monthly through October, fueled by ZOA Energy Drinks.

Downtown Bentonville Incorporated Appoints Dana Sargent Schlagenhaft As Executive Director

Feb 28, 2023 - Downtown Bentonville Inc. names Dana Sargent Schlagenhaft as Executive Director, recognizing her leadership and commitment to enhancing inclusive, community-driven downtown experiences.

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