501 Fest

A Day for Celebrating the Best of Central Arkansas

If you’re not from Arkansas, we’ll clue you in: 501 is the telephone area code for Central Arkansas, and it’s why May 1 (5/01) is set aside to celebrate our home region.

Though Little Rock is the largest city in the 501 area code, it’s far from the only one. 501 Day celebrates the many communities that work together to make Central Arkansas the vibrant, thriving region it is. Many cities host 501 Day events, and 501 Fest is one of Little Rock’s signature events.

What to Expect

501 Fest includes vendors, musicians, performers, food trucks, and more, all in the spirit of community and celebration. This fun, family-friendly event is centered around the SoMa (South Main) neighborhood and incorporates the area’s funky shops and locally owned restaurants.

Why 501?

501 is one of the original 86 area codes created by AT&T and the Bell System in 1947. It originally served the entire state of Arkansas. As Arkansas’s population grew, the 501 area code was split in 1997, creating the 870 area code. In 2002, the area code was split again, creating the 479 area code for the folks up in Northwest Arkansas.

What’s Up With That Logo?

The official 501 Fest logo is a riff on Little Rock’s official tourism logo from the 1990s. Even more than 25 years later, locals still love its off-kilter angles and bright colors. The accompanying slogan, “Big on Little Rock,” is still in use, and eagle-eyed visitors can still spot the vintage logo on posters, t-shirts, and stickers around Little Rock.

Other 501 Day Events

The excitement of 501 Day in Little Rock isn’t contained just to 501 Fest. Area attractions, retailers, and restaurants offer special deals and discounts to celebrate. For example, look for special discounts and events that cost only $5.01 and fun, family-focused programming at attractions across Little Rock.

Other Events