Northwest Arkansas is blessed to have a natural conservation area right in its midst. And it’s a great time of year to be exploring the outdoors.

• Camping: One of the latest additions at Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area are the hike-in/bike-in campsites designed by Hufft on the Monument Trails system. There are 11 campsites total — 6 with the metal structures/sculptures all along the Karst Loop. 
• Trails: Hobbs is Arkansas’ largest state park, spanning over 12k acres. There are 8 total trails that are a part of the Conservation Area’s Monument Trails, accessible to mountain bikers, hikers, and trail runners.

Learn more about the state park HERE. 

A monthly opportunity for you jazz enthusiasts and lovers is back again at the Roots HQ in Fayetteville. 

• Jammin’: In an effort to keep jazz alive and well, the Northwest Arkansas Jazz Society has announced the return of their Monthly Jazz Jam! The first gathering is tomorrow, Jan. 13, from 6-9p. The Claudia Burson Trio will perform, and set the tone for the evening, then invite jazz enthusiasts to join in. 
• Living history: Contributions are appreciated, but the evenings are free. Go participate or just listen to some of NWA’s finest musicians. The Roots HQ is in a historic 1880’s building on the SE corner of the Fayetteville Square. 

For more information, click HERE. 

Get ready for an evening that is sure to be unforgettable with the Junior League of Northwest Arkansas (JLNWA). 

• For a cause: Don your masks as the JLNWA is hosting its 10th annual Moonlight Masquerade at Record in downtown Bentonville. The proceeds will go towards bringing awareness and prevention of domestic violence in NWA. 
• Contribute: The masquerade starts at 7p on Friday, Jan. 28th. Tickets, tables and promenade packages are available to purchase, all of which include dinner and drinks. Businesses also have the opportunity to donate to a silent auction and be featured at the event. Email JLNWA for more information on business packages. 

For tickets and info on attending the event, click HERE. 

A Fayetteville based land transaction platform recently raised $40m in Series B funding, allowing for expansion. 

• Connecting people: AcreTrader is a technology company that connects investors, land, and farmers together to exist in simplified, semi-symbiotic relationships. The company utilizes technology to streamline customer experiences within a multi-trillion dollar real estate sector.
• Growth: The recent Series-B funding will allow AcreTrade to scale the platform where buyers and sellers participate in a high value market. The local business has grown 5x its original size in a year, and the continued expansion will allow more farmers and landowners to enter the market. 

Read the full Business Wire story HERE. 

The Sake Passport at Big Box Karaoke (BBK) is back starting Sunday, Jan. 16, until they’re sold out. 

• Exploring: Volume 2 of the Sake Passport is a limited edition due to the limited production of sake over the past 2 years. BBK was able to procure 5 bottles each of 5 new sakes and is excited to share. 
• Tasting: You can purchase a Passport online or in store. The tastings begin on Jan. 16 and will go until Feb. 13, or until the sake runs out. There are a total of 7 one-hour tasting times for 4 groups/individuals at a time.

For more information, click HERE.