Every fall, the Fayetteville Square lights up with excitement, overflows with music, and acts as the epicenter of the region’s startups and small businesses for what’s become the biggest startup party in the Heartland. Attendees can hop between downtown stops to meet founders, see demos, catch live music, and enjoy local brews with a commemorative-cup tasting – part open house, part block party, all celebration of NWA entrepreneurship.

Two ways to join the party

General Admission – it’s free! 
Sign up, grab a wristband, and enjoy the outdoor music and the full crawl atmosphere. Meet entrepreneurs, pop into venues, and be part of the celebration. (No alcohol sampling.)

Beer ticket – a regional craft beer experience! 
If you’d like to try some awesome Arkansas craft brews along the route, choose the beer ticket. It includes a commemorative cup and lets you enjoy pours from participating local breweries while you explore. 21+ with valid ID.

Again in 2026 – two cup options!
After a successful update in 2025, we’re again giving attendees who opt for a beer ticket the option to choose between a 16 oz full pour souvenir cup or a commemorative 6 oz taster. Want to take advantage of the full beer buffet? Go big! Just want to sample? Then the taster is for you. 

Make the most of your crawl  

1. Check in and gear up 
Pick up your 2026 Startup Crawl passport (and commemorative cup + wristband if you chose the beer ticket) at check in stations on the Fayetteville Square starting at 5 p.m.

2. Choose your own adventure 
Meet founders exhibiting from the Pryor Center or stroll between the marked stops around the square – get your passport stamped at each one to get a free Crawl t-shirt! Prefer a slower pace? Camp out near the stage and soak up the music or grab a bite at any of the food trucks 

Soundtrack of the night 

Enjoy live music throughout the evening from the stage on the on Fayetteville Square. Stay tuned for this year’s musical acts! 

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