April 20, 2023
Contact: Joanna Sheehan Bell
Arts and Culture Director
Parks, Natural Resources and Cultural Affairs
479-718-7605
jbell@fayetteville-ar.gov
New Lower Ramble arts, music series kicks off April 28
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — The City of Fayetteville is pleased to announce the launch of "Weekend Starts," a free series of Friday evening “compact creativity festivals” that will take place in the Lower Ramble.
The art-infused series will take place 5-7 p.m. Fridays from April 28 to June 30, kicking off the weekend with a burst of creativity and fun. It is being held in conjunction with the University of Arkansas Department of Music.
Each week, the event will highlight a different live musical performance, as well as various visual artists and other creative talents, providing an “immersive cultural experience for the whole family,” said Joanna Sheehan Bell, arts and culture director.
Attendees can expect a lively atmosphere where they can unwind after a busy work week, enjoy strolling through the beautiful natural area and engage with their local arts community.
Weekend Starts is free and open to the public; all ages are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring a picnic blanket or lawn chairs to enjoy the performances and stay awhile. Arriving via the Razorback Greenway is encouraged, but parking is available at the Fayetteville Public Library’s south surface parking lot, as well as on-street parking along West Ave.
The series will feature a diverse lineup of local musicians curated by Alan Gosman, UA associate professor, showcasing the best of Fayetteville's arts scene, from classical ensembles to jazz quartets. Performances will feature UA faculty members and students, along with collaborators from throughout Northwest Arkansas and around the country.
Gosman said, “The music department is thrilled to be part of this series and to explore the possibilities for Fayetteville’s fabulous artistic corridor, providing a unique blend of styles and genres that reflect the high level of artistic collaboration and excellence on campus.”
For more information and to see upcoming performers, go to: https://www.fayetteville-ar.gov/4232/Arts-and-Culture.
As part of the Lower Ramble, Weekend Starts will be held within Fayetteville’s Outdoor Refreshment Area (ORA), allowing participants to stop by participating establishments within the designated zone and pick up their favorite to-go beverages to enjoy during the event. However, participants must adhere to the guidelines set forth by the ORA.
In the event of inclement weather, updates regarding cancellations or rescheduling will be provided on the City website. We encourage attendees to check for updates before heading to the event.
###