🌟 THE FUTURE OF NWA IS BRIGHT!
BIG INVESTMENTS. BIGGER OPPORTUNITIES.
Northwest Arkansas continues to make its mark as a hub for innovation, education, and healthcare. With several exciting developments underway in Bentonville, the region is preparing for a future filled with new opportunities.
A New Era of Education
The Bentonville Institute of Technology officially broke ground in October on the site of the former Walmart Home Office. Set to welcome its first students in August 2029, the university will focus on science, technology, engineering, and business, with hands-on learning designed to prepare students for real-world careers.
Even more exciting? Tuition is expected to be fully covered during the university’s initial years, making this innovative education model more accessible to students.
Transforming Healthcare in NWA
Education isn’t the only area seeing major investment. The Alice L. Walton School of Medicine, which welcomed its inaugural class in 2025, is helping train future physicians with an emphasis on whole-person healthcare.
Meanwhile, construction is underway on the AWSOM Whole Health Campus, a 120+ acre healthcare destination developed by the Alice L. Walton Foundation in collaboration with Mercy. The campus will bring advanced specialty care to Bentonville, including cardiac services in affiliation with the nationally recognized Cleveland Clinic.
The first facility is expected to open in 2029, with additional plans for cancer care, a new hospital, and expanded medical services.
Looking Ahead
Together, these investments represent more than new buildings. They’re creating opportunities for education, employment, innovation, and access to healthcare, helping shape the next chapter of Northwest Arkansas.
The future of NWA is looking brighter than ever!
THE MORGAN AT JOHNSON SQUARE
A NEW CHAPTER IN WALKABLE LIVING.
Something exciting is taking shape in Johnson! The Morgan, a $7 million mixed-use development, is bringing a fresh take on modern living to the heart of Johnson Square. Combining luxury residences with new dining opportunities, the project is another step forward for one of Northwest Arkansas’ growing communities.
Modern Living Meets Small-Town Charm
Developed by High Street Real Estate and Development, the three-story building will feature eight luxury condominiums and ground-floor restaurant space. Each residence will offer two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a private balcony, with sizes ranging from approximately 1,010 to 1,270 square feet.
Located just steps from local favorites like Pizzeria Ruby and Hail Fellow Well Met, The Morgan embraces a walkable lifestyle where dining, shopping, and everyday conveniences are right outside your door.
A Meaningful Addition to Johnson Square
The development carries a special significance, honoring the late Morgan Hooker, who co-founded High Street Real Estate and Development and helped bring the vision for Johnson Square to life.
With construction underway and completion anticipated in August 2027, The Morgan represents more than new housing. It’s another example of how Northwest Arkansas continues to grow while creating connected, community-focused places to call home.
Market Update + Buy Your Next Home Before You Sell
This month’s market update comes from Bank on Ben, offering insight into October’s rate movement and a pro tip for buying before you sell.
November 2026: Mortgage Update
October Recap: Rates opened October at 7.61%, their highest point since 2023, then worked their way down all month to finish at 7.29%. The reason was a shaky stock market. When stocks get bumpy, investors sell and move their money into safer places like U.S. Treasuries and mortgage bonds. More demand for those bonds pushes mortgage rates down, so a rough month on Wall Street turned into good news for homebuyers.
Pro Tip: Buy First, Sell Later (3 Ways to Use Your Sale Money)
- Already own a home and found your next one first? Once your current home sells, you have three ways to use that money:
- Option 1: Make a large principal payment. Your payment stays the same, but your loan gets paid off years sooner. Cost: $0
- Option 2: Recast your loan. You make the same large payment, but instead of shortening the loan, your lender lowers your monthly payment. Cost: usually under $500
- Option 3: Refinance. This is the most expensive option, with closing costs usually around $4,000. But it’s the only one that can lower your interest rate if rates have improved since you bought.
Key Takeaway: Don’t let selling your current home stop you from getting your dream home. There are several ways to make it work.
Reach out to Ben for all of your lending needs! Located in Rogers – Call 303-909-7158
November Events Across Northwest Arkansas
November brings plenty of reasons to gather, give thanks, and celebrate across Northwest Arkansas. From Thanksgiving traditions and community events to festive holiday celebrations, there's something for everyone to enjoy as we embrace the season of gratitude and kick off the holidays.
❤️ Light of Hope
📅 Thursday, November 19 | 12:00–1:00 PM
📍 NWA Convention Center, Springdale
Make a difference this November at CASA of Northwest Arkansas’ annual Light of Hope event! This meaningful gathering brings the community together to raise awareness and support for children in foster care. Through inspiring stories and a shared commitment to helping local children, Light of Hope is a wonderful opportunity to give back and make a lasting impact during the season of gratitude.
🎄 Bentonville Lighting of the Square
📅 Saturday, November 21 | 4:00–7:00 PM
📍 Downtown Bentonville Square | 100 N. Main St.
Kick off the holiday season with one of Bentonville’s most magical traditions! Downtown Bentonville transforms into a winter wonderland with thousands of twinkling lights, festive performances, photos with Santa, and plenty of holiday cheer. Gather with family and friends to enjoy the festivities before the Square officially lights up at 6 PM sharp. It’s a picture-perfect way to welcome the holiday season in Northwest Arkansas!
🦃 Turkey Trot-n-Trek
📅 Thursday, November 26 | 9:00 AM
📍 Upper Ramble, Downtown Fayetteville
Start Thanksgiving Day on the right foot with Fayetteville’s Turkey Trot-n-Trek! This family-friendly tradition invites runners and walkers of all ages to enjoy a festive morning outdoors before the holiday celebrations begin. Choose between a 5K or a fun 1K course, all while supporting The Spark Foundation and its mission to promote healthy, active lifestyles in Northwest Arkansas. It’s a great way to get moving, give back, and kick off Thanksgiving with the community!
ROGERS
🎄 Founders Plaza Christmas Tree Lighting
Date: November 20, 2026
Time: 5:00–8:30 PM
Location: Founders Plaza, Uptown Rogers
Get into the holiday spirit in Uptown Rogers! Enjoy a festive evening of community fun, seasonal treats, and holiday cheer as Founders Plaza celebrates the start of the season. It’s a great opportunity to gather with friends and family and enjoy a little holiday magic.
BENTONVILLE
✨ Winter Lights at Crystal Bridges
Date: Beginning November 19, 2026
Time: 5:00–9:00 PM on scheduled evenings
Location: Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
600 Museum Way, Bentonville
Experience the magic of the holidays surrounded by art and nature! Winter Lights transforms the museum’s outdoor spaces into a glowing seasonal experience. Wander through illuminated displays, soak in the festive atmosphere, and enjoy a memorable evening with family or friends. Tickets are required for Winter Lights.
SPRINGDALE
🛍️ NWA Holiday Market
Date: November 6–7, 2026
Location: Northwest Arkansas Convention Center, Springdale
Get a head start on holiday shopping at the NWA Holiday Market! Browse more than 160 booths featuring gifts, seasonal decorations, specialty items, and festive finds. It’s a great place to check a few names off your shopping list while enjoying the excitement of the upcoming holiday season.
FAYETTEVILLE
✨ Lights of the Ozarks
Date: Beginning November 20, 2026
Time: Opening ceremony at 6:00 PM
Location: Downtown Fayetteville Square
One of Northwest Arkansas’ favorite holiday traditions returns! Downtown Fayetteville transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland with thousands of twinkling lights illuminating the historic Square. Bundle up, grab a warm drink, and enjoy the festive atmosphere with family and friends.
EUREKA SPRINGS
🇺🇸 Veterans Day Parade
Date: November 7, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM
Location: Historic Downtown Eureka Springs
Join the Eureka Springs community in honoring the men and women who have served our country. The annual Veterans Day Parade brings residents and visitors together for an afternoon of appreciation, patriotism, and community spirit.
🛍️ Shop Small Saturday Celebration
Date: November 28, 2026
Time: 9:00–10:00 AM
Location: Basin Spring Park, Eureka Springs
Celebrate the businesses that make Eureka Springs special! Kick off Small Business Saturday with coffee, breakfast treats, games, and a visit from Santa and his friends. Afterward, explore downtown’s charming boutiques, galleries, and locally owned shops while supporting the small businesses that give this Ozarks town its unique personality.
🎄 Eureka Springs Tree Lighting Ceremony
Date: November 28, 2026
Time: 5:30–6:00 PM
Location: Basin Spring Park, Eureka Springs
There’s something extra magical about the holidays in Eureka Springs! Gather downtown as Fiddling Santa and his elves help light the community Christmas tree. Surrounded by historic buildings and festive decorations, it’s a charming way to welcome the holiday season.
BELLA VISTA
🛍️ Bella Vista Holiday Market
Date: November 14, 2026
Time: Beginning at 9:00 AM
Location: 3 Riordan Dr., Bella Vista
Kick off your holiday shopping with a festive morning in Bella Vista! Browse seasonal finds, discover unique gifts, and enjoy the opportunity to shop locally. It’s a great way to support the community while getting a head start on your holiday gift list.
Make the Most of November
November is a time to gather, give thanks, and celebrate the communities we call home. From honoring our veterans and supporting local businesses to holiday markets and festive light displays, there’s plenty happening across Northwest Arkansas.
Whether you’re shopping for the perfect gift, enjoying a holiday tradition, or simply spending time with loved ones, get out and make the most of everything NWA has to offer this November!
Giving Thanks in Northwest Arkansas
November is a time to slow down, reflect, and appreciate the people, places, and communities that make Northwest Arkansas so special. As the fall season winds down and the holidays approach, there’s no shortage of reasons to be thankful for life here in the Ozarks.
From exciting investments in education and healthcare to new developments, local traditions, and opportunities to give back, Northwest Arkansas continues to grow while holding on to the sense of community that makes it feel like home.
At Uptown Real Estate, we’re grateful to be part of this incredible region and love keeping you connected to more than just the real estate market. Whether you’re finding your next home, exploring a new neighborhood, or making memories with loved ones, we’re here to help you stay connected to the community we call home.
Wishing you a wonderful Thanksgiving filled with gratitude, good company, and plenty of reasons to celebrate. We’ll see you next month with more local news, market insights, and everything happening around Northwest Arkansas!
