5 Events for Weekend Fun: Dragon Boat Festival, Greek Food Fest, Peter Pan Ballet & More!
We fully expect to see all of you at the Greek Food Festival this weekend, but when you need a break from chowing down on baklava and gyros, there's plenty more to see and do! Cheer on the dragon boat races in Maumelle and get sporty with the Special Olympics at the Clinton Presidential Center. Or, bust out the bathing suits and have some fun in the sun—Wild River Country opens for the season this weekend!
32nd Annual International Greek Food Festival at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church: The family-friendly festival features the Old World Market, stocked with imported gift items and specialty foods, such as falafel mix, Greek olive oil, stuffed grape leaves, and Pete’s Famous Salad Dressing, which is handmade and bottled at the church. Families can also enjoy the Kid’s Area, complete with rides and games. Or, enjoy the dance performances on the entertainment stage while you nosh on hummus, gyros and calamari. The church will also be open for tours guided in which visitors can learn about the history and tradition of the Orthodox Christian faith. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. May 20-21 & 11 a.m.-3 p.m. May 22. Free admission, parking and shuttle service. Info: (501) 221-5300, GreekFoodFest.com.
River Cities Dragon Boat Festival at Lake Willastein in Maumelle: Paddles up! Teams compete in a charity Dragon Boat race benefitting the Children’s Protection Center. Race day begins at 9 a.m., with teams dressed in a variety of wild costumes, performing in the first heat of races. This is when corporate and community teams race for glory and prizes. During races, folks onshore enjoy a DJ, food trucks, and a children’s activity area (arts & crafts, a bouncy castle, and more). There will also be a number of prizes awarded throughout the day for best-dressed drummer, best decorated tent, and more. 9 a.m. May 21. Free for onlookers. Info: RiverCitiesDragonBoatFestival.
"Peter Pan" at Arkansas Arts Center Children's Theatre: Arkansas Festival Ballet presents its annual storybook ballet, this year telling the story of Never Never Land and all of its charming characters—Peter Pan, Wendy and her brothers, the Lost Boys, mermaids, and more. Flying effects for the journey to Never Never Land will be provided by ZFX, Inc. 7:30 p.m. May 20 & 21; 2 p.m. May 21 & 22. $20; children & students are $15. Info: (501) 227-5320, ArkansasDance.org.
Bridge to the Future Festival at Clinton Presidential Center & Park: This free community festival brings together organizations—including HIPPY Arkansas and Special Olympics Arkansas—that support early childhood education and health in young children. Kids can take part in fun, interactive and educational activities, which parents learn about resources for their families. Special Olympics will also host a Unified Experience in which individuals with and without disabilities play sports together. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. May 21. Info: (501) 748-0472, ClintonPresidentialCenter.org. FREE!
Wild River Country Opens for the Season: Feel the thrill of speeding down eight thrilling water slides, splash in the waves, ride the River Rapids or simply relax as you float around the lazy river. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. May 21. Price varies. Info: (501) 753-8600, WildRiverCountry.com.