Events
BlakeSt creates connection and community through engaging daily events. Members enjoy access to intellectual conversations, tastings, live music, comedy nights, craft nights, book clubs, and outdoor recreational excursions.
LIVE MUSIC | ASHTYN BARBAREE
Ashtyn Barbaree is an internationally touring Americana singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist hailing from Fayetteville, Arkansas. Her latest project, Sent Through The Ceiling, delves into themes of self-discovery, resilience, and the bittersweet nature of life's journeys. Drawing inspiration from the expansive landscapes of the Ozarks and her own life experiences, Barbaree masterfully weaves stories of love, loss, and the pursuit of dreams. The album features arrangements that embody the essence of Americana music, seen through the eyes of an Arkansan, blending elements of folk, rock, pop, and country into a rich musical tapestry. Join us for an intimate autumn evening as we immerse ourselves in the captivating sounds of Ashtyn Barbaree. Club Lounge. Members +3.
SAGE
This gathering provides the women of BlakeSt an opportunity to connect on a deeper level. Guided by Member Beth Wiles, this small-group setting is designed for sharing wisdom, strengthening community, and shaping inspired living. Library. Members +1.
CRAFT NIGHT | HOLIDAY STAMP-MAKING
Wow your holiday card recipients with your own hand-carved rubber stamp on the envelope! Grab a drink, bring a friend and join us in the Library as you learn how to carve your own stamps. You will leave with your own stamp kit and ink to use as you embark on the endeavor of sending your 2024 holiday cards. Library. Members +1.
BLAKEST BOOK SALE
It’s time for a Library refresh, and we’re excited to invite our Members to be a part of it! Explore a curated selection of books for sale as we transition new titles into our collection. Whether you’re searching for that beloved book you can’t put down or finally ready to take home one you’ve been eyeing, this is the perfect opportunity to find your next great read. Best of all, your purchases will support a wonderful cause! Proceeds from the sale will benefit the Bentonville Public Library Foundation, helping to make a difference in our community. Mark your calendars, bring your friends, and let’s make this book sale a success together! Registration not required. Library. Members +3.
MEN'S BOOK CLUB
“Shadow Divers,” by Robert Kurson, is the true adventure of two Americans who risked everything to solve one of the last mysteries of WWII. In the fall of 1991, divers found a German U-boat 230 feet below the frigid Atlantic surface, 60 miles off the coast of New Jersey. Official records all agreed that there simply could not be a sunken U-boat and crew at that location. Over the next six years, an elite team of divers embarked on a quest to solve the mystery. Library. Members +1.
WOMEN'S BOOK CLUB
“All the Colors of the Dark,” by Chris Whitaker, uncovers what lurks in the shadows of obsession and the blinding light of hope. 1975 is a time of change in America. The Vietnam War is ending. Muhammad Ali is fighting Joe Frazier. And in the small town of Monta Clare, Missouri, girls are disappearing. When the daughter of a wealthy family is targeted, the most unlikely hero emerges- Patch, a local boy, who saves the girl and leaves heartache in his wake. Patch and those who love him soon discover the line between triumph and tragedy has never been finer, and that their search for answers could mean losing one another. Green Room. Members +1.
MAPPING OUT YOUR HOLIDAY WELLNESS
The holidays can mean many things to each person. They are a great time to reflect and prioritize your well-being, which sometimes can take a back seat. Join Jade Ford for a genuine chat about mapping out what your wellness could look like during the holidays as she helps you curate your own personal holiday wellness plan. Green Room. Members Only.
BUNCO NIGHT | FRIENDSGIVING
What’s better than Bunco and donating to a good cause? Gather together and get into the spirit of Thanksgiving for a night of fun and philanthropy. BlakeSt will be accepting canned goods throughout Bunco Night that will then be donated to a local food bank. We can’t wait to gather together!
WELCOME SOCIAL | DJ TODD
Join us for BlakeSt’s monthly Welcome Social, where we foster community and provide new and tenured Members alike with the perfect opportunity to connect. In partnership with Welcome to NWA, this event creates a warm and inviting atmosphere for making new friends around the House. Enjoy a drink and mingle with fellow Members—come say hello! Club Lounge. Members +3.
FRIENDSGIVING DINNER
Let’s gather and give thanks together! As we embrace the season of gratitude, join your fellow BlakeSt Members for a warm and festive Friendsgiving dinner. Chef Matt and the Culinary Team have crafted a delightful Thanksgiving menu designed to inspire gratitude and connection at the table. Your meal ticket includes a five-course dinner, thoughtfully paired with a selection of fine wines. Raise a glass and celebrate the joy of Togetherness! A $20 deposit is required to hold your seat. Restaurant. Members +3.
HORSEBACK RIDING
In partnership with 37 North, this Western-style horseback trek heads through wooded areas, open fields, and beautiful overlook vistas. This adventure is suited for new and experienced riders alike. After a relaxing ride, enjoy drinks and eats at Whistling Springs Brewing Company, where you can give the farm animals some love. Transportation, food, and equipment will be provided. Bring your good spirits, and wear your Western best! Meet in the Parlor. Members +1.
BRUNCH WITH THE MAESTRO
Join the Arkansas Philharmonic Orchestra at an unforgettable “Brunch with the Maestro” experience. Hosted at the 21c Hotel and Museum, join us as we embark on a delightful journey through holiday food and wine pairings, alongside the magic of holiday music. Set against the backdrop of the stunning 21c Hotel and Museum, this event promises to be a feast for the senses. Whether you're a passionate foodie, a wine aficionado, or a lover of orchestral music, this gathering is the perfect way to embrace the joy of the holidays with friends and family. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to elevate your brunch experience and create lasting memories with the Arkansas Philharmonic Orchestra! 21c Museum and Hotel. Members +1.
NOT JUST A HOT FLASH: REAL TALK ABOUT HORMONES
Is it hot in here? Or is it just me? Join Alycia Williams, a certified Sex and Relationship Therapist, for an empowering conversation about hormones. Gain insight into the physical and emotional changes during menopause, and discover practical strategies for managing symptoms and enhancing your well-being. For anyone interested in learning more about this vibrant and complex season of life, this workshop offers a supportive space to learn, share, and connect. Green Room. Members +1.
SOUL CIRCLE
Soul Circle provides a thoughtful, judgment-free group conversation around a central theme. Hosted by Member Peter Ferguson, this platform allows individuals to share unique philosophies, thoughts, and ideas in a welcoming round-table discussion. This month’s conversation explores dismantling the “mask” we present to others and inviting them to discover your authentic self. Library. Members +1.
CHOCOLATE TASTING | MARKHAM & FITZ
Join our friends from Markham & Fitz for a guided chocolate tasting that will include a variety of flavors. Their team will teach us how to taste chocolate, identify nuanced flavors, and explore chocolate creation with some of our favorite specialty chocolate bars. This event will include special cacao tastings as well as cocoa tea. Give your tastebuds a night to remember! Library. Members +1.
NICK AT NIGHT | STEVIE NICKS
Attention, Night Owls and Dreamers! Get ready to immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Stevie Nicks at our magical evening dedicated to the queen of rock and roll. Dust off your lace and leather, and channel your inner witchy woman as we gather to celebrate the iconic music and mystique of Stevie herself in a night filled with her timeless hits. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering her magic, bring your friends, wear your best bohemian attire, and let’s create some “Gypsy” memories together. Green Room. Members +3.
FULL SIGNAL | EDGES
Develop creative approaches and practical measures to bridge gaps, cultivate mutual respect, and strengthen a shared sense of purpose within our civic and professional workstreams. Full Signal will offer a thought-provoking discussion on the most effective ways to strengthen human connections. Hosted by Members Ken and Patti Leith, the duo behind the podcast “Four Bars” and the founders of EDGES™ (Every Day Growth Equals Success), this session delves into the power of connectivity. Green Room. Members +1.
ALL ABOUT THE SIDES | TEACHING KITCHEN
This month, it’s all about the sides! Join us at the Thaden School Teaching Kitchen as we prepare the perfect accompaniments for your Thanksgiving turkey. In this festive class, Chef Case Dighero will guide us as we whip up delightful dishes like Five Spice Roasted Carrots, Creamy Potato Gratin, and Cranberry Cornbread. Come ready to cook, taste, and share in the spirit of Togetherness. Meet at Thaden School. Members +1.
ASAMI TEA SOCIAL
Join us for a night of mingling, music, and Asami tea cocktails, curated by the BlakeSt Beverage Team. Get a fun sneak peek ahead of Downtown Bentonville’s upcoming International Market with our twist on Asami tea. Asami is inspired by natural products based on African roots that support good health. Asami tea products are heritage-based, unique, and authentically stirred by shared cultural traditions from Africa, with each product offering a unique story. Let these refreshing tea cocktails transport you to notable places on the continent of Africa. Club Lounge. Members +3.
TRANSFORMATION TABLE
Come explore an approach to relationships and leadership that prioritizes treating others with kindness, respect, and dignity, even in the face of adversity or conflict. Led by Certified Maxwell Leadership Coach Tyler Cutbirth, we’ll examine a powerful strategy that has the potential to transform individuals, relationships, teams, and organizations. The core concepts will evolve around leaders valuing all people, doing the right thing for the right reasons, taking accountability, and placing people above their own agendas. Library. Members +1.
SIP & SOUND BATH | COCOON
Join us in the Wellness Studio for our inaugural indoor Sound Bath of the winter season. Experience the tranquil effects of sound bathing, which can strengthen immunity, alleviate physical pain, improve sleep, and uplift your mood. Led by Tammy Mores from Cocoon Yoga Lab, this session will guide you on a journey of relaxation and self-discovery through sound. After, warm up with a cozy cup of apple cider and connect with fellow Members in a relaxed atmosphere. Wellness Studio. Members only.
AUTUMN TRAIN TRIP
All aboard! Join us on the Arkansas-Missouri Railway for a day-trip experience in a premium vintage railcar. This journey begins at BlakeSt, where we will embark to Van Buren to ride through the hills and hollers ablaze with fall colors as we enter the Boston Mountains. Enjoy lunch before you explore the historic downtown of Van Buren. Transportation and lunch are provided. Meet in the Parlor. Members +1.
KARAOKE | PARTY ROCK
Join our host, BlakeSt Member Jemma Coleman, for an unforgettable evening filled with music and fun. Choose your favorite party rock song from a vast lineup, let go of your inhibitions, and take the mic! Guaranteed applause awaits you. Club Lounge. Members +3.
POTTERY | HOLIDAY VOTIVES
Hello, holiday season! Join us at Fifth Street Studio for a festive journey into the world of ceramics! In this hands-on, 2-hour workshop, you’ll create your very own holiday votives using slabs of clay. These simple cylinders serve as the perfect canvas for creativity, allowing you to design one-of-a-kind holiday decor. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, this workshop is for all skill levels. Come share in the joy of crafting some lasting memories this holiday season. We can’t wait to see what you create! Meet at Fifth Street Studio. Members +1.
CLOTHING SWAP
Do you have some clothes you just don’t wear anymore? Looking to refresh your own wardrobe? Bring them to BlakeSt for our Clothing Swap! Our very own BlakeSt Member, Bee Holland, will be hosting and we’ll provide a space for trying things on. Any items left after the swap will be donated to a nearby shelter. Club Lounge. Members +1.
FORTIFYING YOUR FITNESS
Join Fitness Coach Madeline Neyland as she presents the fundamentals of corrective exercise. In “Fortifying Your Fitness,” we’ll delve into the science behind self-myofascial release, explore common postural deviations, and discuss the muscular imbalances they cause. You’ll learn how past injuries can resurface and discover why issues like knee pain may stem from deeper, underlying problems. Most importantly, we’ll guide you on how to restore and strengthen your body, empowering you to move better and feel your best. Wellness Studio. Members only.
BLAKEST HOUSE ART TOUR | CLUB LOUNGE
Join Eden Kelly-Leal from Crystal Bridges for an exclusive contemporary art tour of the House. Explore the diverse collection of works from both emerging and established artists, guided by Eden’s insightful commentary and unique perspective. Delve into the stories and inspirations behind each piece in the Club Lounge, igniting your appreciation for the art of today. This tour is a perfect opportunity for art enthusiasts and newcomers alike to engage with the current artistic landscape. Experience BlakeSt’s extraordinary art collection with Eden as your guide. Club Lounge. Members +1.
FINANCIAL COMPATIBILITY WATCH PARTY
Join Premarital Financial Counselor Leah Marie Collins at a watch party featuring her recent Tedx Talk. After her wedding was called off six weeks before the wedding date due to financial incompatibility, Leah embarked on a transformative journey to help couples determine their financial compatibility before tying the knot. In addition, Leah has over 16 years of experience reducing costs for Fortune 500 companies, was featured in Bloomberg and Lionsgate Media, and was selected as one of The Top 100 Women of Impact in Arkansas. She will be on-site this evening alongside co-host Dr. Silena Scott, owner and executive director of Heart for Healing Therapeutic Services. Club Lounge. Members +3.
GROUND YOURSELF WITH BREATH AND MOVEMENT
Unwind and rejuvenate in this soothing candlelit class with Claudia Smith, designed to help you breathe easily, relieve chronic tightness and tension, and calm your nervous system. Experience a unique blend of guided relaxation, mindful breathing, and gentle mat-based movement, utilizing mats, blankets, and eye pillows for added comfort. To top it all off, enjoy a refreshing beverage after class to complete your relaxation experience. Come and find your inner peace! Wellness Studio. Members only.
AUTHOR TALKS | LINDSEY CORMACK
Join Author Lindsey Cormack for an insightful discussion about her book, How to Raise a Citizen (And Why It’s Up to You to Do It). In a time when civic knowledge is alarmingly sparse and many people feel apprehensive about politics, Lindsey’s book serves as a vital resource for parents, educators, and anyone eager to bridge this gap. Bring your friends and join us for an engaging conversation about her writing process and important themes within her work. Don’t miss this opportunity to deepen your understanding of civic engagement and inspire positive change. Club Lounge. Members +3.
FRANCOPHONE APERO
Bonjour, les amis! Whether or not you parle français, join us for an enchanting evening of French appreciation. We will have a curated French wine list ready for you to imbibe and indulge. Grab your favorite Beaujolais and mingle with both our French-speaking and French-appreciating Members for a night to celebrate culture and camaraderie. Club Lounge. Members +3.
ZIPLINE TOUR
Get ready for an exhilarating day at the Buffalo Outdoor Center with a thrilling zipline adventure experience with 37 North! Kick off the fun with a delicious lunch, then soar through the Ozark canopies on a 2-hour zipline tour that you won’t forget. After the tour, enjoy a beverage at Whistling Springs Brewery as you take in the beautiful Ozark scenery. Your ticket covers lunch, refreshing beverages, all activities, and transportation. Meet on the Front Porch. Members +1. $50 for Members, $75 for Guests
CRAFT COLLABORATIVE
Whether you’re an arts-and-crafts pro or just love to dabble, this group is all about sharing ideas, making new friends, and having a blast. Bring that project you’ve been meaning to finish, and enjoy a chill hangout session while soaking in collective inspiration and morning caffeine. Library. Members +1.
COFFEE WITH LEADERSHIP
Join us for a relaxed and engaging “Coffee with Leadership” event exclusively for our Members! This is your chance to connect with our Leadership Team in a casual setting, share your thoughts, and ask questions about the future of BlakeSt. Whether you want to provide feedback, seek insights, or simply catch up, we invite you to enjoy a cup of coffee and a conversation with our Team. Library. Members only.
HALLOWEEN HANGOUT | DJ TODD
Happy Halloween! We’re celebrating All Hallow’s Eve with one last group gathering at Ko’a; this will be our final voyage to the island oasis before Ko’a closes for the season! Come decked out in your best costume, and see if you can win our BlakeSt costume contest! DJ Todd will join us for House Backyard beats.
HAUNTED OZARK CAMPFIRE STORIES
Lean in and listen closely as we gather for ghost stories around the campfire. Bring your spookiest ghost stories to share with the group, and enjoy the thrill of a good shiver up your spine! We’ll have some s’mores to enjoy.
SOUL CIRLCE | THE VALUE OF BEING SEEN
Hosted by Member Peter Ferguson, Soul Circle provides a small-group platform for individuals to share unique philosophies, thoughts, and ideas in a welcoming round-table discussion. This month’s theme centers around “The Value of Being Seen,” focusing on how recognizing different parts of our being helps us feel connected and understood.
WITCHES NIGHT OUT
Magical mischief and mirth! Wear your midnight cloaks and cackle with laughter as we toast to the spirit of Halloween. Come in your favorite witch’s attire, and enjoy drinks with your fellow sorceresses. Mimi and Brenda will lead several rounds of Bunco throughout the night as we enjoy the spooky, candlelit vibe in the Club Lounge.
MONEY MOVES BOOK CLUB
Join Money Moves Book Club for a thoughtful session hosted by BlakeSt Member and Wealth Advisor Iffy Ibekwe. This month’s discussion will equip you with practical knowledge and strategies to navigate the unique financial challenges of caring for aging loved ones. Don't miss out on this opportunity for helpful insights and engaging conversation. All are welcome.
HALLOWEEN BRUNCH SPREAD
It’s time to spice things up; it’s Halloween week! Bring your little ghouls, princesses, heroes, and vampires—this Halloween Brunch Spread will be love at first bite. Costumes are encouraged at this autumnal brunch feast. We’ll serve all your favorites, including an omelet station, fresh-baked pastries, elevated charcuterie boards, a raw oyster bar, and delicious roasted meats served on our butcher's block.
FALL OVERNIGHT CAMPOUT
Crisp autumn air, campfire cooking, fireside chats, and sleeping under the stars—join us for an unforgettable fall overnight camp trip filled with adventure, learning, and the beauty of the great outdoors. 37 North will be your guide, and they’ve arranged all the gear, transportation, food, and some teaching opportunities if you’re keen on leveling up your camping skills. Meet at BlakeSt’s Front Porch. Members +1.
CRAWL-O-WEEN BAR CRAWL
In conjunction with Downtown Bentonville’s “Crawl-O-Ween” event, we’re gathering the BlakeSt crew for a most spooktacular crawl. Damon Epps from Planet GoodTimes will take the lead—we’ll begin at Ko’a, then frequent stops at participating bars around downtown. Costumes are highly encouraged for this exciting night on the town!