Bentonville to Showcase Local Talent at ‘First Friday Live’
Bentonville, AR - 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.
DBI is excited to bring back Bentonville’s Got Talent, a high-energy live show bringing 28 local acts to the stage. From singers and dancers to unique performances, the competition highlights the creativity and talent found throughout the community. Guest judges will join the event, alongside surprise performances and appearances from previous winners, building to a live awards presentation and an evening headliner performance featuring past winner Gavin Sumrall.
The monthly sponsor for First Friday Live is Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. On Friday the museum will offer inspiring, hands-on creative experiences connected to their upcoming expansion, which opens on June 6 and 7, 2026. Guests can enjoy a variety of interactive activities that spotlight each phase of the exciting journey. There will also be opportunities to create art and pottery plus visit a pop-up mini‑gallery, and ride the pottery bike!
In addition to the on-stage excitement, the Bentonville Square will transform into an interactive soccer experience hosted by Haleon. The activation will feature hands-on activities for all ages, including skill challenges, drills, and games led by three local soccer clubs. The experience celebrates the global game and creates an engaging, active environment for attendees throughout the evening.
Food trucks will open at 11:00 a.m. with a wide variety of options. While downtown, enjoy local restaurants and unique shops throughout the day. You can even stop by the DBI booth for a retail map to find the best recommendations!
First Friday vendor booths open at 3:00 p.m., with more than 150 local artists, makers, small businesses, and community organizations participating. Live music and programming begin at 4:30 p.m., leading to Bentonville’s Got Talent from 4:40 to 7:40 p.m.
Full First Friday Schedule
- Food Trucks Open (11:00 AM)
- Yoga on the Square (12:00 PM)
- Vendor Booths Open (3:00 PM)
- Talent Show Begins (4:40-7:40 PM)
- Intermission
- Awards Announced (7:50 PM)
- Gavin Sumrall (8:15-9:00 PM)
Downtown Bentonville Inc. is a nonprofit that produces the event and would like to give a big THANK YOU to community partners: the City of Bentonville, Visit Bentonville, and the Walton Family Foundation.
ABOUT DOWNTOWN BENTONVILLE INC.
Downtown Bentonville Inc. works to promote community and enhance the Downtown Bentonville experience for everyone.