Free events in Benton County, AR

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Enjoy an open-air showing of Back to the Future at Bentonville Square as part of Movie Nights on the Square. This free, family-friendly gathering welcomes attendees to bring lawn chairs and blankets for a comfortable spot on the Square. Complimentary refreshments will be available with support from sponsors including Cadillac of Bentonville, Arbor Vitae Chiropractic, Catalina Crunch, MadeGood, Product Connections, Bazooka Brands, Roxberry, Signature Bank, and Kijaro.

Everyone is welcome to choose free groceries from shelves set up inside the Grace Chapel sanctuary. A short registration is requested, and caring volunteers are available to guide the process and answer questions. Children can spend time in the Neighborhood Kids area, where they can play and even pick out items from child-height shelves while a parent or guardian shops. Appreciation goes to the volunteers and to partnering organizations that make this ministry possible, including Northwest Arkansas Food Bank, Central UMC, First UMC, and Bland Chapel Methodist.

Pickin on the Square gathers the community on the Bentonville Square for an easygoing acoustic jam. Local musicians and anyone with an acoustic instrument are welcome, and all ages and skill levels can participate. Attendance is free. Bring an instrument to play or pack a lawn chair or blanket to relax and enjoy the music. This community-led tradition is supported by Downtown Bentonville Incorporated.

A community Halloween fundraiser at the Lowell Senior Activity Center features classic games, festive activities, and treats for a good cause. Entry is free, and costumes are welcome though not required. Highlights include a cake walk hosted by the Old Cronies, Boo Basket themed bingo, a runway style costume contest with a red carpet vibe, and spooky karaoke. Pizza, dessert, and a drink will be available for a suggested donation of $5. Tickets can be purchased to take part in activities, and every ticket also enters a drawing for a door prize. All proceeds support the center’s operating budget and the services it provides for its members. Donations of bingo prizes and cake walk goodies from individuals or businesses are appreciated, and those interested in contributing can contact or stop by the center.

PEARL’s 6th Annual Roberds Run 4 Your Life 5K and Walk to Remember takes place at Rogers High School in Rogers. This community gathering honors the legacy of PEARL co-founder Ben Roberds while supporting recovery efforts in Northwest Arkansas and PEARL’s partnership with the Benton County Specialty Courts. The Run 4 Your Life 5K features a flat course along the Blossom Way Trail, and every finisher receives a unique medal. The Walk to Remember is free and offers space to honor loved ones lost to substance use while encouraging those continuing their recovery journey. A community fair adds activities and resources for attendees. Registration is available for in-person running or walking and for virtual participation. Event sponsors and volunteers are welcome, with additional details available through the registration page.

This annual free community celebration of fall is open to everyone and features music, face painting, food and drinks, games, and activities for children.

Enjoy a free painting session where supplies are provided, including paints, miniatures, and a comfortable place to create. You can also bring your own paints or minis if you prefer. Settle in for a relaxing creative break, whether you want to make art with friends and family or focus on your own project for some quiet time.

Grace Chapel offers a drive-thru meal service that provides hot, take-home meals at no cost for individuals and families, with no questions asked. The food is prepared by a rotating group of local churches and families, each contributing once a month. Support for the Community Meal comes from a grant provided by the Methodist Foundation for Arkansas as well as the participating churches.

Enjoy a free miniature painting session with paints, minis, and workspace provided. Participants may bring their own paints and miniatures if they prefer. The setting is relaxed and friendly, suitable for creative time with friends and family or a quiet solo project.

PJ’s Coffee of New Orleans in Rogers hosts Chief Roastmaster Felton Jones for a Coffee 101 session paired with a tasting. Attendees can learn the basics of coffee while sampling handcrafted brews, along with other refreshing drinks and pastries that echo the welcoming New Orleans spirit. Admission is free for the first 50 registrants.

A free community painting night takes place every fourth Tuesday at ANA Studio. Participants can bring their current artwork or start a new piece, with tables set up in the main room or the option to bring an easel. The evening centers on creating together and casual conversation, with chances to talk about works in progress and receive support from the group. Finger foods will be available, and the gathering is open to the public at no cost.