What to Expect: May First Friday Live
First Friday in May: Bentonville’s Got Talent
We are thrilled to have Walmart back as our presenting sponsor for the 2026 season. We also want to give a big THANK YOU to our incredible community partners, including the City of Bentonville, Visit Bentonville, and the Walton Family Foundation.
This May, First Friday Live turns Downtown Bentonville into the ultimate stage AND the ultimate
pitch.
Welcome to Bentonville’s Got Talent — where live performance meets game-day energy in a
one-night-only celebration of local talent, competition, and community spirit.
1. ON STAGE: BENTONVILLE’S GOT TALENT
28 local acts competing live.
Guest judges.
Surprise performances + returning winners.
A full-scale, high-energy live show experience.
2. ON THE SQUARE: SOCCER TAKES OVER
A major soccer activation hosted by Haleon.
Interactive soccer experiences for all ages.
Three local soccer clubs bringing drills, games, and skill challenges.
A celebration of the global game leading into this year’s World Cup.
3. SCHEDULE
11:00 AM – Food Trucks Open
Start your day with a wide variety of food options around the Square.
12:00 PM – Yoga on the Square
Join Yoga Story for a free, all-levels adult class. Bring your mat, water, and enjoy a midday reset in the heart of downtown.
3:00 PM – Vendor Booths Open
Explore 150+ booths featuring local artists, makers, small businesses, and community organizations.
4:30 PM - Music Begins
We open with a fan-favorite returning winner, followed by emcee and judge intros.
4:40 – 7:40 PM – LIVE COMPETITION
28 performers take the stage in a fast-paced, high-energy showcase of Bentonville talent.
Intermission Surprise
A pop-up performance by Perry Ryan Theater Company keeps the momentum going.7:50 PM – AWARDS
Winners announced live — big moments, big reactions.
8:15 PM – HEADLINER SET
The night rolls straight into a live concert to close things out.
4. BETWEEN ACTS: GET IN THE GAME
While the competition heats up on stage, the Square transforms into a soccer playground.
Test your skills in interactive challenges and drills.
Jump into quick-play games hosted by local clubs.
Experience a high-energy activation from Haleon.
Celebrate the spirit of the global game right here in Bentonville.
5. THE FULL FIRST FRIDAY EXPERIENCE
Food trucks (11 AM – 9 PM)
Vendors + booths (3 – 9 PM)
Yoga on the Square at noon
Art, activities, and neighborhood zones to explore
6. PLAN AHEAD
This will be one of the biggest First Fridays of the season. Roads around the Square will be closed so arrive early and carpool, if possible!
7. STAY CONNECTED
Tag your moments and follow along: @DowntownBentonville