LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — We are one day closer to the start of the 2024 college football season, and Arkansas will open its campaign against Arknasas-Pine Bluff at War Memorial Stadium in Little Rock on Aug. 29.
But with a weeknight game early in the season, restaurants are changing their plans for a football-filled weekend, especially with the 50th Salt Bowl the next day.
The schedule change has left Little Rock businesses preparing for two high-profile football games less than 24 hours apart.
Hill Station, a full-service restaurant and bar in the Historic Hillcrest District, is excited for another Razorback football season. However, Hill Station General Manager Christian Bryant said they're unsure what to expect with the game being on a Thursday.
"We're not quite sure what to expect," Bryant said. "Typically, the Little Rock game is later in the season, not the first game of the season, nor is it on a Thursday."
Rain or shine, win or lose, Bryant said they always count on the loyal Hog fans.
"They'll be here regardless, and we try to create a great atmosphere with drinks, food and good staff," Bryant said. "The fact that War Memorial is so close is also a plus."
Even closer to the action, Hillcrest Little Bakery is getting ready for its own tailgate.
"We're pretty convenient... 300 yards away [from War Memorial Stadium]," Hillcrest Little Bakery Owner Scott Loye said. "This would be a great place to stop and have a drink."
A beer at a bakery may sound unusual. Still, Hillcrest Little Bakery, which used just to sell parking on game day, the restaurant is now embracing a new audience after acquiring a liquor license.
"We're not a sports bar... we won't have a big TV set up and things like that, but we're close to where everybody's going that night," Loye said. "If you're looking for a place to have a drink before the game, we're a great location."
All while local businesses prepare for not just a busy weekend, but for an entire football season.
"There could be a lot of fall games going on," Loye said. "We'll have the Salt Bowl and other games going on, so as War Memorial gets business, hopefully, we will too."
Other Little Rock restaurants, like Wright's Barbecue, will also host weekend events to celebrate the start of the football season.
We will be there live before and after the Razorbacks' season opener against the Golden Lions.