The Fayetteville Square is the soul of downtown — a green, walkable historic plaza built around the 1911 Old Post Office, ringed by restaurants and shops, and home to the oldest farmers market in Arkansas plus beloved events like Lights of the Ozarks. It’s the city’s living room, busy from spring mornings through the holidays.
The Fayetteville Farmers Market
Founded in 1973, the Fayetteville Farmers Market is the oldest farmers market in Arkansas — and every producer grows or makes their goods within 60 miles. It runs Saturdays (April–November) 7am–1pm, with Tuesday Night Markets (May–September) 4:30–8:30pm and Thursday mornings (May–September) 7am–1pm on the square. Expect fresh food, local art, live music, and a whole lot of community. It’s free to attend. Read the full guide to the Fayetteville Farmers Market »
The Square Gardens, Old Post Office & Fountain
The Square Gardens, created in 1978, wrap around the historic Old Post Office (1911), the plaza’s centerpiece. Don’t miss the World Peace Prayer Fountain by local artist Hank Kaminsky — a giant bronze sphere representing the Earth, encircled by water jets for the world’s oceans. It’s one of the square’s most-loved artworks.
First Thursday Arts Fair
From May through October, the square hosts First Thursday — an outdoor arts fair (about 5–8:30pm) featuring 40+ artists, live music, children’s activities, and food trucks. It’s a fun, free way to experience Fayetteville’s creative side.
Lights of the Ozarks
Each November and December, the square transforms for Lights of the Ozarks, a dazzling holiday light display that draws an estimated 200,000 visitors through December, kicked off by a festive parade in early December. It’s one of Northwest Arkansas’s most beloved holiday traditions.
Dining & Shopping
The square and surrounding streets are full of acclaimed restaurants, cafes, and boutiques. For the current spots, browse our sister sites NWA Food (Fayetteville) and NWA Brew (Fayetteville). Dickson Street’s nightlife is just a short walk away.
More in Fayetteville: Dickson Street, parks & trails, and the full Things to Do in Fayetteville guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Fayetteville Farmers Market?
Saturdays 7am–1pm (April–November), plus Tuesday evenings 4:30–8:30pm and Thursday mornings 7am–1pm (May–September) on the downtown square. It’s free.
What is Lights of the Ozarks?
A holiday light display on the Fayetteville Square each November and December, drawing about 200,000 visitors, with a parade in early December.
What is First Thursday in Fayetteville?
An outdoor arts fair on the square on the first Thursday of each month, May through October, with 40+ artists, live music, and food trucks.