FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

LITTLE ROCK TO HOST ARKANSAS' LARGEST JUNETEENTH FESTIVAL

Little Rock's 17th Annual Juneteenth on Da Rock celebrates history, heritage and growth

LITTLE ROCK, AR (January 6, 2026) - Little Rock, Arkansas, is a city rich in history, vibrant culture and scenic beauty. Through iconic landmarks and meaningful sites, visitors can explore Little Rock's profound contributions to the Civil Rights Movement and honor the African American leaders and trailblazers who shaped the nation's history. Today, that legacy continues through immersive cultural experiences, Black-owned businesses and community spaces that reflect the city's enduring spirit.

Little Rock's legacy is deeply tied to the Civil Rights Movement, with landmarks and stories that reflect the city's role in shaping the nation's path toward equality. From the courage of the Little Rock Nine to the lasting legacy of civil rights leader Daisy Bates, visitors are invited to engage with a past defined by resilience, leadership and progress.

This legacy continues today through meaningful cultural experiences and community celebrations. This year, Little Rock will host its 17th Annual Juneteenth on Da Rock, the largest Juneteenth festival in Arkansas. Brought to life through a vibrant street festival, the annual event honors history while celebrating culture, creativity and the future of the community.

Historic Landmarks and Museums: 

• Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site: One of Little Rock's most iconic sites, this school was made famous in 1957 when nine Black students, later dubbed the Little Rock Nine, became the first to desegregate the school. The National Historic Site Visitor Center opened across the street from the school in September 2007 to mark the 50th anniversary of the school's desegregation and is one of the most-visited Little Rock landmarks. It offers insight into the crisis through interactive exhibits commemorating the events and tells the personal stories of the Little Rock Nine. It is the only functioning high school within the National Park Service. 
• Daisy L. Gatson Bates House: Daisy Bates served as a liaison between the local school board and the Little Rock Nine, speaking on behalf of the students. During the desegregation crisis, the Bates' home became the official pick-up and drop-off site for the Little Rock Nine's trips to and from Central High School each school day and, consequently, a gathering spot for the Nine and members of the press. Today, the home is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Tours of the home are available, but must be scheduled in advance.
• Historic Dreamland Ballroom and Taborian Hall Museum: Built in 1916, this building was the cultural and economic hub of Little Rock's vibrant African-American community and is the last remaining original building on the 9th Street “Line.” Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the hall served as headquarters for the Arkansas Chapter of the National Knights and Daughters of the Tabor. The third-floor Dreamland Ballroom hosted many famous entertainers, including Louis Armstrong, Ray Charles, Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Nat King Cole, Ella Fitzgerald and Dizzy Gillespie.
• Arkansas Civil Rights Heritage Trail: The Arkansas Civil Rights Heritage Trail is an ever-growing collection of sites in Little Rock that were significant to the Civil Rights Movement. The trail runs from the Old State House to Downtown Little Rock and celebrates key figures in Arkansas civil rights history, including the Little Rock Nine, the Elaine Twelve, Freedom Riders, student activists and civil rights attorneys and politicians.
• U.S. Civil Rights Trail: Little Rock is home to six sites along the U.S. Civil Rights Trail that includes 100+ sites that span across 15 states. Little Rock is a Top Ten trail destination because of the Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site.

For more information on Little Rock, please visit www.littlerock.com.

For images, click here: Photos Courtesy of the Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau (LRCVB).

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About Little Rock, Arkansas

Nestled along the scenic Arkansas River, Little Rock offers a captivating blend of history, culture and natural beauty. Known for its welcoming southern charm, unique cuisine, game-changing historical significance, vibrant cultural scene and accessible outdoor adventure, Little Rock promises an unforgettable getaway that caters to diverse interests. As a community-centered destination with a deep connection to the Civil Rights Movement, Little Rock is steeped in cultural and educational offerings, with sites like Central High School National Historic Site or the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center. Modern history comes alive at the William J. Clinton Presidential Library & Museum and sites like the Museum of Discovery, a nationally ranked children's science museum and the Little Rock Zoo make learning fun at every age. With more than 1,200 miles of cycling trails and scenic routes that span from the delta to the mountains, the city is an outdoor hub for every kind of riding or walking enthusiast. The city's notable landmark is the Big Dam Bridge, which stands as the longest pedestrian- and cycling-intended bridge in North America. Conveniently located in Downtown Little Rock is the Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport, allowing for ease of access to the city. In 2025, Travel + Leisure named the destination, “This Is the Most Underrated City in the South.” In addition, Arkansas and the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts (Little Rock) were named one of “The Best Places to Go in North America in 2026.” 

For more information, explore www.littlerock.com and join our journey on social media with #BigOnLittleRock.