BENTONVILLE -- Sunshine and warm weather will usher in the First Friday season as it kicks off today.

Snow from last weekend's winter weather is still melting, but the National Weather Service's forecast for today is sunny and 60 degrees.

"Mother nature is being kinder to us later in this week than (she was) in the beginning of the week," said David Deggs, Downtown Bentonville executive director.

The organization hosts the events each month from March through November. The events transform the square into a block party with food, entertainment and activities.

"First Fridays are such great events because they bring our community together and celebrate the community of Bentonville," Deggs said.

Each month has a different theme. Today's is "Midway to St. Patrick's Day," and different Irish bands will perform on the Walton Arts Center Main Stage.

Missouri musician Jonathan Ramsey will begin with a performance at 11:45 a.m. He'll play again at 5 p.m. The Women of the House will perform at 5:50 p.m. Finvarra's Wren will play at 7 p.m.

At 6:45 p.m. the Boys & Girls Club of Benton County will recognize Youth of the Year candidates and winner. The organization is sponsoring March's First Friday.

Even after the music stops, there's plenty to do in and around the square as businesses and restaurants will extend their hours on First Friday, said Cher Evans, marketing and public relations manager.

Businesses that are downtown but not necessarily in the square also participate by offering specials, events and activities at their location, Evans said.

"There is a ton going on," she said.

Notes At Night will connect performers with restaurants to play at into the evening. Ramsey will play from 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. in the Pressroom, and Finvarra's Wren will play from 8:30 - 10:30 p.m. at Tusk & Trotter, according to Downtown Bentonville's I website.

The Notes At Night began by being held during the Arts and Culinary Festival in June.

"It was so popular in June that we're expanding it though out the year," Evans said.

Brandie Perry, Bentonville resident, says she and her family go to each First Friday. She and husband Shane, an alderman for the city, have four children, ages 10, 8, 6 and 4.

"It's like a festival in a big city with the small town feel," she said. "They're super safe."

Attendance at First Friday fluctuates depending on the month, but there can be anywhere between 3,000 to 8,000 people, Deggs said.

For more information visit, downtownbentonville.org/events.