By: Ellisyn Sanders

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (UATV) – Arkansas Music Week wrapped up this weekend after seven days of concerts, workshops and community events that showcased local artists and celebrated the state’s music scene.

The festival kicked off Sept. 14 with Sunday on the Square in downtown Fayetteville, a free, all-ages event that drew a steady crowd to the city’s square. Local surf-rock band Malibu Moon headlined, and other performers from outside the area joined to help open the week. The afternoon also featured a Rock & Roll Yard Sale, a music history listening station, food trucks, local brews and merchandise vendors, creating a street-festival atmosphere downtown.

Events during the week included songwriting workshops, jam sessions, nonprofit-benefit shows and panel discussions tied to the Music Cities Convention, held Sept. 16-18 at the Fayetteville Town Center and Fayetteville Public Library. The convention brought together musicians, researchers and city planners to discuss how music shapes community identity and local economies.

Organizers said Arkansas Music Week was designed to highlight the state’s music heritage and connect artists with audiences. Most events were free, while ticketed concerts drew crowds into downtown venues and supported local businesses.

The festival will conclude Sept. 21 with its final round of performances and activities. While many of the main events had already taken place, organizers said the goal was to build momentum for future programming in Fayetteville and across Arkansas.

More information is available through the Arkansas Music Experience and Experience Fayetteville websites.