3rd Annual SoMa Main Street Mile Returns as Regional Championship Event in Little Rock

The streets of SoMa will come alive on the evening of June 5, 2026, as runners, spectators, and the Central Arkansas community gather for the 3rd Annual SoMa Main Street Mile, a high-energy celebration of movement, competition, and summer racing in the heart of Little Rock.

Presented by Blue Rose Running in collaboration with SoMa 501 Little Rock, Inc., and supported by volunteers from across the region’s running community, this event delivers a unique blend of elite competition and community-driven fun.

This year’s race has earned regional recognition as the RRCA Southern Region 1-Mile Championship, solidifying its place as one of the premier mile races in the South.

“From first-time runners to elite competitors, the SoMa Main Street Mile creates an electric, inclusive experience that showcases the very best of Little Rock,” said Logan Dockery of Blue Rose Physical Therapy and Running. “It’s fast, it’s fun, and it’s truly for everyone. This event is about more than racing – it’s about creating a starting point. We’ve seen firsthand how a mile can change the trajectory of someone’s health and life.”

Dockery added that last year’s event served as a turning point for one participant who used the race as a starting point toward improving his health, ultimately losing 110 pounds and counting as he embraces a more active lifestyle. He is now part of a supportive, active community and has become healthier across all aspects of his life.

“The SoMa Main Street Mile is a beautiful intersection of our commitment to healthy living and the preservation of our historic downtown spirit,” said Elizabeth Michael, Executive Director of SoMa 501. “There is something truly magical and unique about racing through the heart of South Main under the warm glow of our iconic string lights, surrounded by the energy of our community.”

Race Schedule & Divisions

Kid’s Mini Mile (Ages 12 & under)

  7:00–7:10 p.m. | $5 (+ fees)

  Children under 8 must run with an adult

Women’s Open Mile (Above 6:00 min/mile)

  7:15–7:35 p.m. | $30 (+ fees)

Men’s Open Mile (Above 5:00 min/mile)

  7:45–8:05 p.m. | $30 (+ fees)

Women’s Elite Mile (6:00 min/mile and under)

  8:15–8:25 p.m. | $30 (+ fees)

Men’s Elite Mile (5:00 min/mile and under)

  8:35–8:45 p.m. | $30 (+ fees)

Registration prices increase after May 5, 2026.

The Fastest Mile in Arkansas

Runners will take on a dynamic, spectator-lined course beginning and ending in the vibrant SoMa district. The route winds through South Main Street and surrounding blocks before finishing with a fast, downhill sprint back to the start/finish line—creating an unforgettable race experience for both participants and fans.

A Festival Atmosphere

More than just a race, the SoMa Main Street Mile is a full street-festival experience. Spectators can expect high energy, community pride, and a lively atmosphere as runners chase personal records and championship titles under the evening lights.

Sponsors

The 2026 SoMa Main Street Mile is made possible by the support of Kinco Construction, Blue Rose Physical Therapy, Blue Rose Running, Little Rock Roadrunners, Smith Underground, and RMP LLP, along with numerous community partners.

Register Now

Participants are encouraged to secure their spot early and be part of one of Arkansas’s most exciting race events: https://runsignup.com/Race/AR/LittleRock/TheSoMaMainStreetMile

To sponsor, volunteer or learn more, visit: SoMa Main Street Mile

HAPPENING TONIGHT: SoMa Hosts “SoMa After Dark Preview” Ahead of Spring Series Return

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (March 6, 2025) – The SoMa District in Little Rock invites the community to enjoy an evening of art, shopping, and local flavor tonight, Friday, March 6, during a SoMa After Dark preview evening ahead of the event series’ return beginning Easter weekend in April.

Several SoMa businesses along Main Street will host special events and exhibition openings throughout the evening:

• Pink Olive will kick off the night from 4–8 p.m. with the debut of its spring Lavender Latte, topped with vanilla–hibiscus rose cold foam and a touch of edible glitter. Guests can also enjoy complimentary sips from Lost Forty Brewing while shopping the boutique’s latest arrivals.

• From 6–9 p.m., M2 Gallery will celebrate 19 years of bringing Little Rock exceptional art and custom framing with a special anniversary show opening.

• Also from 6–9 p.m., Boswell Mourot Fine Art will host a reception and art opening featuring new work by artists Brent Rowley, Anna Stiritz, and Carrie Olsen, with light bites and drinks available for guests.

The evening offers a chance to explore the SoMa district after hours while building excitement for the return of SoMa After Dark, a recurring event featuring art, shopping, food, and entertainment along Main Street the first Friday of every month. Visitors are encouraged to stroll the district, visit participating businesses, and support local shops and galleries throughout the evening.

To learn more and find updates about future events, visitors can find more information at somalittlerock.com/things-to-do.

About SoMa 501SoMa 501 is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and enhancing economic development, public relations, historic integrity and quality of life for the citizens of the SoMa district in Little Rock. As an accredited Main Street Arkansas program, we work with our local businesses, government partners, and other stakeholders to deliver events, improvement projects, and programming for the benefit of everyone who visits our stretch of Main Street.

Media Contact
Elizabeth Michael, Executive Director
soma@southsidemain.org

Request for Proposals (RFP) Landscape Maintenance Services

Request for Proposals (RFP)
Landscape Maintenance Services

Issued by: Quapaw Central Business Improvement District #5 (QCBID)
Issue Date: 3/4/26
Proposal Due Date: 3/7/26

1. Introduction

Quapaw Central Business Improvement District #5 (QCBID) is seeking qualified landscape maintenance contractors to provide comprehensive landscape services within the QCBID district along Main Street from 12th Street to 17th Street and adjacent half blocks as specified below.

The selected contractor will be responsible for maintaining plant beds, trees, shrubs, litter removal, lawn areas, and general landscape appearance in accordance with accepted horticultural practices.

QCBID 501’s goal is to maintain a vibrant, safe, and attractive streetscape that reflects the identity and growth of the district.

2. Contract Term

The contract will be awarded on a month-to-month basis.

Either party may terminate the agreement with thirty (30) days written notice. Continuation of services will be contingent upon satisfactory performance, budget availability, and alignment with QCBID 501 beautification standards.

QCBID 501 reserves the right to evaluate performance regularly and make adjustments to scope, frequency, or vendor selection as needed to best serve the district.

3. Scope of Services

The following services are required at a minimum and shall be performed according to generally accepted horticultural and arborist practices.

A. Plant Bed Management

• All plant beds to be maintained in neat and weed-free appearance.

• All shrubs and ground cover to be trimmed according to generally accepted horticultural practices, and as necessary to maintain necessary visibility for drivers and pedestrians.

• All shrubs and ground cover to be evaluated for any signs of insects or disease and any problems reported to, and treatment options discussed with, QCBID representative.

B. Tree & Evergreen Care

• Trees and evergreens to be pruned and shaped according to arborist techniques, and as necessary to maintain necessary visibility for drivers and pedestrians. This covers pruning and shaping up to a maximum of 10 feet; pruning and shaping above 10 feet is not included.

• Trees and evergreens to be evaluated for any signs of insects or disease and any problems reported to, and treatment options discussed with, QCBID representative.

C. Lawn Care

• Lawn areas to be mowed at appropriate height, with clippings collected and removed as required.

• Mowing to be completed every other week, or as needed, during the growing season.

• All walkways and plant beds to be edged with line trimmer, as needed.

• Lawn areas to be evaluated for any signs of insects or disease and any problems reported to, and treatment options discussed with, QCBID representative.

D. Leaves & Litter Removal

• Leaves, sticks, litter and debris to be removed from plant beds, lawn areas and sidewalks, and hauled off.

• Once each week during the growing season, and when leaves are falling.

• Once every 2 weeks during other times.

Contractor will designate a Project Supervisor who will oversee contractor’s work in the District, and maintain regular communication with QCBID representatives. 

E. Additional Services (Quoted Separately)

To be performed upon mutual agreement and written authorization:

• Seasonal color planting

• Soil improvements and amendments

• Mulch installation or replacement

• Pesticide or chemical applications

• Irrigation adjustments or minor repairs

• Native plant installation

• Bed renovations

4. Areas Included

The service area includes:

Main Street

• Both sides from 12th Street to 16th Street

• West side only from 16th Street to 17th Street

12th Street

• South side from Main Street to ½ block East

• Both sides from Main Street to ½ block West

13th Street, Daisy Bates (14th), and 15th Street

• Both sides from ½ block East of Main Street to ½ block West of Main Street

• Includes grass in front of 112 W Daisy Bates, which is immediately west of the alley

16th Street

• North side from Main Street to ½ block East

• Both sides from Main Street to ½ block West

17th Street

• South side from Main Street to ½ block West

Walgreens perimeter excluded from maintenance but included for leaf/litter removal.

5. Performance Standards

Contractor must:

• Maintain clean, professional crews.

• Provide supervision and quality control oversight.

• Communicate proactively about issues observed.

• Provide monthly service summary reports.

• Carry required insurance and licensing.

• Comply with all local regulations.

6. Proposal Requirements

Proposals must include:

1. Company Overview

   • Years in business

   • Relevant commercial or district experience

   • References (minimum three)

2. Staffing Plan

   • Crew size

   • Supervisor name and qualifications

   • Licensed applicator credentials if applicable

3. Detailed Pricing

   • Monthly base maintenance cost

   • Hourly rates for additional services

4. Equipment List

5. Insurance Certificate

6. Optional Enhancements

   • Sustainability practices

   • Native plant expertise

   • Irrigation management capabilities

7. Evaluation Criteria

Proposals will be evaluated based on:

• Experience and qualifications

• Understanding of district-scale maintenance

• Pricing structure

• Responsiveness and communication

• Sustainability practices

• References

QCBID 501 reserves the right to reject any or all proposals.

8. Submission Instructions

Submit proposals electronically in PDF format to:

Elizabeth Michael
Executive Director, SoMa 501 on behalf of QCBID
SoMa@SouthSideMain.org

Deadline: 3/7/26 5 p.m.

Late submissions will not be considered.

SoMa 501 Launches Math on Main, a Year-Long Public Art Series Bringing Math, Art, and Food to South Main

SoMa 501 today announced the launch of Math on Main, a year-long public art and community learning series that will transform South Main Street into a walkable outdoor math experience through art, music, food, and permanent street installations.

Produced as part of the Simons Foundation’s Infinite Sums national initiative, Math on Main will feature three free public events in 2026, each unveiling a permanent, math-inspired crosswalk or mural along Main Street. Together, these installations will form the Math Path on Main, a lasting public art corridor designed to invite curiosity, slow traffic, and encourage people to walk and gather in the neighborhood.

Math on Main is produced in partnership with Dr. Annie Childers and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock Math Department, whose faculty and students will help design activities and engage the public throughout the series.

“Math is a fundamental part of the most beautiful things in our world, but many people never get the chance to experience it that way,” said Elizabeth Michael, Executive Director of SoMa 501. “Math on Main is an invitation to look again and to experience math through beauty, creativity, and shared experience.”

The series unfolds across three signature events:

On Pi Day, March 14, Math on Main will launch with the unveiling of a Pi-themed crosswalk, marking the first stop on the Math Path. The day will include DJ for a Day, teaching math and music theory, the Big Bubble Blast, and activities for children under 10. Free circle-shaped foods, including pies, pizzas, and cookies, will be served to the public.

On Infinity Day, August 8, the Math Path will expand with the unveiling of an infinity-themed crosswalk. The celebration will explore infinity as both a mathematical concept and a human one, featuring a community wedding and vow renewal ceremony. Loop-shaped foods will be shared throughout the event.

The series concludes on Fibonacci Day, November 23, with a Fibonacci Friendsgiving. A communal table will stretch down Main Street for a free public meal highlighting spiral-shaped foods and natural Fibonacci patterns. During the event, community members will help install a kinetic, wind-activated mural inspired by the Fibonacci sequence, creating a permanent public artwork that moves with the environment.

Rather than presenting math as a set of rules to follow, Math on Main invites people to experience math as a series of patterns that shape everyday life. Each event combines hands-on learning, public art, and communal meals to make math accessible for people of all ages, whether math enthusiasts or math-averse.

South Main Street is one of Arkansas’s most eclectic and art-filled neighborhoods, shaped by decades of community-led revitalization. Math on Main builds on that legacy, using public art and shared experiences to activate streets, improve walkability, and create lasting neighborhood landmarks.

All Math on Main events are free and open to the public.

Math on Main is supported by the Simons Foundation and is part of its “Infinite Sums” initiative. To learn more, visit https://infinitesums.simonsfoundation.org/.

To learn more, visit somalittlerock.com/mathonmain or follow @soma_little_rock on social media.

More Than Just a Thrift Store, Quapaw Quarter UMC and QQ Thrift Welcome You to Shop, Connect, and Belong

At the corner of 1601 S Louisiana Street in SoMa, something special is happening every first and third weekend of the month. Step inside the historic walls of Quapaw Quarter United Methodist Church and you’ll find QQ Thrift Shop, a vibrant community hub filled with vintage treasures, antiques, furniture and household items.

Why Locals Love QQ Thrift

Open every 1st and 3rd Friday (2–5pm) and Saturday (9am–4pm), QQ Thrift Shop is a well-loved secret among SoMa thrifters. Whether you're searching for the perfect vintage find, a quirky gift, or something you didn’t know you needed until you saw it, there's something here for everyone. And since proceeds go right back into supporting local outreach, shopping here means you're also giving back.

Don’t forget to follow them on Facebook @qqumc for updates on sale weekends, sneak peeks at featured items, and community news.

Love Without Exception

Quapaw Quarter UMC is a 100-year-old church that believes deeply in creating an open and affirming space for all people. Their welcoming statement says it best:

“We welcome into our faith community people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, physical and mental abilities, economic means, and family structures.”

Whether you’re attending worship, visiting the thrift shop, or participating in one of their community meals like the Sunday Community Breakfast or Stone Soup lunch, you’re entering a space that practices radical inclusion and kindness.

Did You Know?

QQ UMC is also the proud host of "Communion on the Run" for the Little Rock Marathon, a tradition that earned them a medal for their creative community support!

Stop By and Say Hi

Quapaw Quarter UMC and QQ Thrift are both located at:
1601 S Louisiana St, Little Rock, AR 72206

Worship & Community Meals
- Community Breakfast: Sundays at 7:30am
- Adult Sunday School: Sundays at 9:45am
- Stone Soup (free hot meal): Sundays at 3:00pm

QQ Thrift Shop Hours
- 1st & 3rd Fridays: 2–5pm
- 1st & 3rd Saturdays: 9am–4pm

Whether you’re looking for great thrift finds, a welcoming place to worship, or simply a way to support the community, QQ UMC and QQ Thrift invite you in, All are welcome!

RFP: SoMa Interactive Mural Project

Request for Proposals (RFP)

SoMa Interactive Mural Project

Issued by: SoMa 501 Little Rock, Inc.
Project Title: Interactive Public Mural
Location: 13th Street between Main and the alley (facing south), Little Rock, AR
Proposal Deadline: 10/7/25 at 12:00PM CST

Overview

SoMa 501, in partnership with the Division of Arkansas Heritage’s Public Art Grant Program, seeks proposals from talented artists to create an interactive public mural. The mural should represent the spirit, history, and character of SoMa. It should invite public interaction and photography, serving as both an artistic landmark and a community storytelling piece that enhances the cultural vibrancy of South Main Street.

Project Scope

• Theme: A mural that highlights the neighborhood’s history, culture, and spirit.

• Design Requirements:

• Must be interactive in nature, encouraging visitors to pose with or within the mural.

• Should reflect the district’s characteristics, including creativity, diversity, inclusivity, and history.

• Must use durable outdoor mural materials, resistant to weathering and graffiti.

• Incorporation of bold color, texture, or dimension is encouraged to maximize visibility and impact.

Budget

A project budget of $10,000 will cover artist fees, materials, travel expenses, and installation costs.

Timeline

The mural must be completed by an agreed-upon date, no later than 6/1/26.

Eligibility

• Open to artists with experience in public mural projects.

• Artists must demonstrate the ability to complete the project within the specified timeline and budget.

• Previous experience in community-centric or interactive art projects is preferred.

Proposal Requirements

Interested artists should submit the following by 10/7/25 at 12:00PM CST:

• Artist Statement: Introduction and explanation of interest in the project.

• Design Concept: A sketch/rendering with description of how the design reflects SoMa and incorporates interactivity.

• Portfolio: Up to five examples of past mural or public art projects.

• Timeline: Proposed schedule for preparation, painting, and completion.

• Budget: Itemized budget including artist fees, materials, and related expenses.

• References: Contact information for at least two references familiar with the artist’s work.

Selection Criteria

• Artistic Merit: Creativity and quality of the design.

• Interactivity: Ability to engage the community and encourage photography.

• Feasibility: Ability to complete on time and within budget.

• Experience: Track record with public art and mural projects.

• Community Impact: Contribution to SoMa’s cultural and visual landscape.

Submission Instructions

• Submit proposals electronically in PDF format to soma@somalittlerock.com.

• Questions: Contact Elizabeth Michael at soma@somalittlerock.com.

• Deadline: 10/7/25 at 12:00PM CST.

Important Dates

• Proposal Deadline: 10/7/25

• Selection Announcement: Upon receiving Arkansas Heritage grant

• Project Start Date: Upon receiving Arkansas Heritage grant

• Completion Deadline: 6/1/26

Compensation

The selected artist will receive compensation within the $10,000 budget, covering time, materials, and expenses. Payment will be made in installments, with details finalized in contract negotiations.

Rights and Usage

The completed mural will become the property of SoMa 501 and may be used in promotional materials. The artist will be credited in all relevant media.

Additional Information

SoMa 501 reserves the right to modify, extend, or cancel this RFP at any time. Submission does not guarantee selection.

We look forward to seeing your creative vision for SoMa!

Mural location on 13th Street. Mural does not have to span or cover the entire wall.

RFP: SoMa Sculptural and Functional Artistic Bench Project

Request for Proposals (RFP)

SoMa Sculptural and Functional Artistic Bench Project

Issued by: SoMa 501 Little Rock, Inc.

Project Title: Sculptural and Functional Artistic Bench

Location: SoMa District, Little Rock, AR

Proposal Deadline: 10/7/25 12:00PM CST

Overview

SoMa 501, in partnership with the Division of Arkansas Heritage's Public Art Grant Program, seeks proposals from talented artists to create a sculptural and functional artistic bench. The bench will embody SoMa’s independent, creative, inclusive, and historic character and engage both residents and visitors. This bench will serve as a visual landmark and photo destination, enhancing the cultural vibrancy of SoMa while celebrating its unique community.

Project Scope

Theme: Southern storytelling. A gathering place that acts as the roots of the community.

A place for sharing, coming together, sitting, reading, relaxing and telling stories. The

bench should capture SoMa's spirit—historic, creative, independent, and inclusive.

Design Requirements:

○ Must be sculptural and artistic in nature.

○ Must be functional and allow for 2-3 seated individuals.

○ Should serve as a distinctive placemaking element.

○ Should incorporate interactive elements that encourage visitors to photograph themselves with the bench (e.g., elements they can "pose" within or alongside).

○ Reflect the SoMa district’s characteristics, including its history, diversity, culture, and the vibrancy of its businesses and community.

○ Should be sturdy and allow for at least 500lbs per seat.

○ Use durable, weather-resistant materials suitable for an outdoor installation.

Location: Between 12th and 13th on Main St. Little Rock, AR 72202

Size: Space should approximately allow for 2-3 seated individuals.

Budget: A project budget of $10,000 will cover artist fees, supplies, travel expenses, and any other costs related to the bench’s creation and installation.

Timeline: The bench must be completed by an agreed upon date.

Eligibility

● Open to artists with experience in public art projects.

● Artists must be able to work within the specified budget and timeline.

● Experience working with metal or other durable outdoor materials is required.

● Previous experience working on community-centric projects is preferred.

Proposal Requirements

Interested artists should submit the following materials by 10/7/25 at 12:00PM CST:

● Artist Statement: A brief introduction to the artist and explanation of interest in the SoMa functional artistic bench project.

● Design Concept: A detailed sketch or rendering of the proposed bench design. Include a brief description of the concept and how it aligns with SoMa’s character.

● Portfolio: Up to five examples of past work, preferably including large-scale public art or other functional sculptures.

● Timeline: A proposed timeline for the completion of the bench, including preparation, fabrication, painting, and any required finishing processes.

● Budget: An itemized budget, including artist fees, materials, and any other related expenses.

● References: Contact information for at least two references familiar with the artist's previous public art projects.

Selection Criteria

● Artistic Merit: Quality and creativity of the proposed bench design and its reflection of SoMa's personality.

● Interactivity: Inclusion of elements that encourage visitor interaction and engagement.

● Feasibility: Artist’s ability to complete the bench within the specified timeline and budget.

● Experience: Previous experience with public art projects and functional sculptural work.

● Community Impact: Consideration of how the bench will contribute to the SoMa district's cultural and visual landscape.

Submission Instructions

● Proposals should be submitted electronically in PDF format to soma@somalittlerock.com.

● For questions or additional information, contact Elizabeth Michael at soma@somalittlerock.com.

● All submissions must be received by 10/7/25 at 12:00PM CST.

Important Dates

● Proposal Deadline: 10/7/25

● Selection Announcement: Upon receiving Arkansas Heritage grant.

● Project Start Date: Upon receiving Arkansas Heritage grant.

● Completion Deadline: 6/1/26

Compensation

The selected artist will receive an agreed upon compensation upon completion of the bench within the total project budget of $10,000. The $10,000 will include time, materials, supplies, travel and any other expenses needed to complete the bench. Payment will be made in installments, with details to be finalized during contract negotiations.

Rights and Usage

Upon completion, the bench will become the property of SoMa 501 and may be used for promotional purposes in print, online media, and marketing materials. The artist will be credited in all relevant promotional materials.

Additional Information

SoMa 501 reserves the right to modify, extend, or cancel this RFP at any time. Submission of a proposal does not guarantee selection.

We look forward to seeing your creative vision for SoMa!

SoMardi Gras Returns to SoMa on February 21, 2026

Laissez les bons temps rouler, Mardi Gras lovers! The 16th annual SoMardi Gras Parade & Street Festival, presented by SoMa 501, returns to Little Rock’s south Main Street (SoMa) district on Saturday, February 21, 2026, one week later than usual so we can celebrate both Valentine's Day and Mardi Gras. The change allows Central Arkansas Mardi Gras lovers who usually travel to New Orleans the chance to celebrate right here at home.

SoMardi Gras is SoMa 501’s largest fundraiser of the year, supporting its mission to champion economic development, preserve its neighborhood’s historic integrity, and create an exceptional downtown experience for residents, businesses, and visitors.

Last year’s event drew a record 14,000 attendees, created an estimated economic impact of $2.5 million, and included 43 sponsors, 107 vendors, and 12 entertainers. The 2025 event also helped fund a new community mural, a vibrant “Greetings from SoMa” mural celebrating our eclectic, welcoming spirit.

“Our neighborhood shows up with heart, soul, and sequins every year,” said Elizabeth Michael, Executive Director of SoMa 501. “We’re thrilled to bring SoMardi Gras back for its 16th year, and we’re moving it just a little later so we can throw the biggest party in Arkansas without sharing the spotlight with Valentine’s Day.”

“We start planning the minute the confetti hits the ground,” added Keri Fishburn, Vice President of the SoMa 501 Board and Chair of the Events Committee. “We ask our Business and Merchants Association for theme ideas, then let them vote. The results never disappoint. Stay tuned, because this year’s theme will be revealed soon!”

As a Main Street Arkansas program, SoMa 501 works year-round with local businesses, government partners, and stakeholders to deliver improvements, events, and projects that make SoMa a unique, dynamic place to live, work, and visit.

Interested in sponsoring, vending, volunteering, or parading?

Email: events@somalittlerock.com

Follow us for updates:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soma_little_rock/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/somalittlerock/