Tag Archives: arkansas

Hungry Kids Need Arkansas Hunters Help

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Ronnie Ritter annually averages two international mission trips. Africa, Belize, Haiti, Nicaragua and Ecuador (16 times) are some of his nearly 40 destinations over the past two decades. Ritter took a 10-day trip in June to Brazil.

            At home in Hot Springs, the 68-year-old director of Arkansas Hunters Feeding the Hungry stays on mission. The nonprofit organization donated 125,000 packages of Wild Game Snack Sticks last year to help feed hungry school children in 50 of the state’s 75 counties. The majority were delivered by Ritter in his 2008 Dodge Ram truck.

There are two, tasty one-ounce sticks in a package – a healthy protein snack for an elementary-aged child. The sticks are made from wild game, mostly deer donated by the state’s hunters, and mixed with pork.

The need is great. Mission-minded Ritter says one in five Arkansas children experience food insecurity. He hears heartbreaking stories of kids hiding their snack sticks because bullies, other siblings, or even their parents, will take the food for themselves.

“One little boy says he holds the package between his mattresses when he opens it so others in the house can’t hear it being opened,” Ritter says. “He can’t let anyone know or it will be taken (and consumed by bigger hungry people in the house).”

Bob Barringer started Arkansas Hunters Feeding the Hungry in 1999, turning the state’s abundant white-tailed deer population into a renewable food source for the hungry. It was all venison burger back then, distributed at no charge through churches and shelters.

Ritter, riding a 31-year career at International Paper Company, agreed to succeed Barringer in 2009. He and “about 8 volunteers” have grown Arkansas Hunters Feeding the Hungry over the past 15 years with relentless promotion, media appearances, and most notably, the snack sticks program for schools.

“I don’t believe retirement is Biblical,” Ritter says. “I may slow down one day, but I don’t plan to ever fully retire.”

            Arkansas Farm Bureau Foundation announced in 2023 a $25,000 donation to the meat stick program and that it would match the designated donations of county Farm Bureaus, individuals, and other entities up to $25,000. Farm Bureau met its goal with the initial donation and pledged matching funds totaling $75,000. The partnership was renewed for 2024.

Hunters are encouraged to donate field dressed wild game, ice chest quartered deer or just “a couple of packs or pounds” of their harvest. Close to 60 participating processors across Arkansas are listed at arkansashunters.org. For more information contact Ronnie Ritter at 501-282-0006.

“We do between 50,000 and 70,000 pounds of burger per year, too” Ritter says. “We give that to local food pantries. With the prices of meat going up at grocery stores, we always get more requests than we can fill.”    

Outdoor Adventures in Arkansas

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In Arkansas, we have been blessed with an early spring this year and temperatures have been on the rise for the last several weeks. For most of the state, school bells have rung for the last time – at least for a couple of months. As Arkansans, we know our entire state serves as a natural playground, adventures only limited by our imaginations.

If you’re scrolling your favorite search engine, looking for a little inspiration to clock some time outdoors this summer, then look no further. We’ve built a list of seven adventures to keep you on the go and enjoying the Natural State.

Pitch a Tent

Arkansas offers a host of great options for camping, where you’re sure to find a spot in all four corners and everywhere in between. From state parks to island getaways, you’ll be able to choose your own adventure here in the Natural State. Where to look? Resources like the Arkansas State Parks website is a great place to start, but options The Dyrt and Hipcamp are also good resources to find your next outdoors home away from home.

Wet Your Line

Arkansas has a host of options when it comes to catching your next fish. From lakes and ponds to rivers and streams; your choices are almost endless. You can visit the state’s tourism website for your next honey hole or check out the Arkansas Game & Fish resources to find a spot based on what you want to catch. No matter where you land, you’re sure to make some great memories along the way.

Take a Hike

It doesn’t matter if you’re looking to raise your heart rate a few beats or spend a few nights in the woods, hiking is always a great way to spend time outdoors and Arkansas has plenty to offer. From the Ozark Mountains to bayou-side trails, you’re sure to find a perfect hike to fit your mood. Check out a list of places and options here. Just don’t forget to pack a snack and plenty of water!

Set Sail on the SS Adventure

With more than 1,000 square miles of water in its borders, Arkansas offers lots of options for enjoying a nautical adventure. Whether you prefer to float in a kayak or canoe or cruise the lake pontoon-style, you’re in the right place. Hop on over to the Arkansas tourism website to see a list of great options and start planning your next trip on the water right now.

(Do) Go Chasing Waterfalls

We’ve already established that Arkansas has plenty of water to host your adventure and, as they say, what goes up, must come down. Only we’re talking about falling water… not falling apples. With names like Car Wash, Fuzzy Butt and Bossy Lady; there’s plenty to see. Just make sure you’re going after a good rain to maximize the waterfall potential and you won’t be disappointed. For a full list of waterfalls in the Natural State, check out the Arkansas Waterfalls Guidebook.

Hop on Your Bike and Ride

Of course, you can ride your bike around your neighborhood and that totally counts. But hitting a trail can be a lot more fun. If you’re the type who doesn’t mind a little mud and dirt, check out the vast selection of mountain bike trails around the state. Options like the Monument Trails in Arkansas State Parks or the OZ trails in Northwest Arkansas are probably your speed. If you’re more of a beginner looking for a flat surface and a little wildlife scenery, check out the Arkansas River Trail in Little Rock. Whatever your preference, there’s an option for your two-wheeled adventure.

Find your Fortune

Arkansas is home to one of the only places you can publicly search for a real diamond, so book a trip down to Crater of Diamonds State Park in Murfreesboro and get to digging. It’s a large space and, depending on the weather, you may be next to hundreds of others also searching for buried treasure. Want to keep it a bit more low-key? Check out one of the quartz crystal mines in the state as an alternative and still have lots of fun.

The Best Lakes to Visit in Arkansas

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With more than 600,000 acres of waterfront in Arkansas, there are many great lakes to visit. Boating, skiing, paddle boarding, fishing, and camping are fun options for enjoying the Arkansas lake life. The depth and clarity of the state’s lakes make them ideal for scuba diving and snorkeling.

Here are just a few of the great lakes to visit in Arkansas this summer.

01 | Lake Ouachita

This man-made reservoir located just outside of Hot Springs is the largest lake in the state, with more than 40,000 acres of clear, clean water surrounded by the scenic Ouachita National Forest. The clear water and over two hundred islands make it ideal for scuba diving–but boating and fishing are Lake Ouachita’s main activities. The Blakely Mountain Dam separates the lake from the Ouachita River, where the Ouachita National Forrest looms just off the shoreline.

02 | Beaver Lake

Located in the Ozark Mountains near Eureka Springs and Rogers, Beaver Lake features 28,000 acres of clear water and is an attraction for water sport lovers, anglers, hikers, and birdwatchers alike. Beaver Lake is nationally renowned for bass fishing and has become a destination for many fishing tournaments. Other popular activities include boating, scuba diving, water skiing, wakeboarding, kayaking, swimming, and picnicking.

03| Greers Ferry Lake

Nestled in the Ozark foothills between Clinton and Heber Springs is Greers Ferry Lake. It is among the state’s five largest lakes, and is ranked as one of the cleanest, clearest lakes in the nation. Greers Ferry Lake offers 40,000 acres of water and provides great fishing, water sports, boating, hiking, kayaking, and camping.

A boat ride to Sugarloaf Mountain in the middle of the lake will get you access to trails that will take you to the top of the mountain for spectacular views of the lake and Ozarks.

04 | Norfork Lake

The deep blue waters of this prized 22,000-acre lake located in Mountain Home supports a wide variety of outdoor activities–with boating, fishing, and water skiing as the most popular. Less traditional activities include scuba diving and spearfishing.

The Ozark Mountain scenery surrounding Norfork Lake offers stunning views from every angle. The lake’s clear water adds to the appeal of fishing and diving.

05 | Lake Chicot

This 20-mile-long lake in Lake Village was once part of the Mississippi River before a change of course cut a section off. It is now the state’s largest natural lake and the largest oxbow lake in the country. Fishing is the main attraction here, where striped bass are the ultimate prize, and the catfish are plentiful year-round.

Written By: Cherie Brown

Water Leaks and Fallen Trees-Prepare for the Unexpected

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Water leaks and storm damage are unexpected, messy and create an unwanted stress on your household. Preparing for them ahead of time can help ease some of that stress.

Water Leaks

Some common causes of water leaks are: cracked pipes, malfunctioning appliances, loosened connections, worn out seals, and freezing temperatures. Although it is difficult to know when a pipe or appliance will leak, regular inspections of old pipes and keeping an eye on aging appliances can help prevent water leaks in your home. As pipes age, they will show visible signs of rust and corrosion. Any slow leak needs to be addressed promptly by a plumber. Appliances that use water, such as water heaters, washing machines, ice makers, refrigerators, and dishwashers, will be at a higher risk to develop leaks as they age. When appliances near their 10-year mark their seals can become old and worn. If this occurs or the appliance is not performing as normal, it might not be a bad idea to call an appliance repair professional to inspect and service the appliance.

We live in a state that has extreme weather–and with this extreme weather comes freezing temperatures. Freezing temperatures can cause pipes to burst. However, this can be avoided with proper insulation and allowing faucets to drip during freezing weather. The small cost for a dripping faucet is far less compared to the costly repairs from a busted frozen pipe. In addition, water damage to your home can displace your family for weeks or months. Addressing leaks promptly, routine maintenance, and preventive steps can help your family avoid being displaced due to a significant water loss.

Should you be one of the unfortunate ones that does have a busted pipe or water leak, it is important to know what to do. Know ahead of time where the main water supply shut off to your home is. Turning off the main water supply is the first and most important step to take if there is a leak. Once you shut off the water supply, you will need to contact a plumber or appliance repair professional to locate the leak and do the proper repairs. The next step will be to start cleaning up the water immediately. A local and reputable water mitigation company can assist with the water cleanup. Friends and family that have had recent home repairs done are a good source to find a reputable water mitigation company. Your Farm Bureau Insurance agent is another great resource to help answer questions and provide additional information regarding what water damage your policy covers. 

Fallen Trees and Storm Damage to Roof   

Storms are unpredictable, but some of the resulting damage can be avoided. Wind and trees near your home are not a good combination, so a little preventive care can avoid a storm turning into a disaster. Keep an eye out for dead trees near your home and have them removed promptly. In addition, keep trees near your home trimmed and remove any leaning or shallow root trees such as pines. Often a little routine maintenance and a preventive mindset can help avoid a major disaster.

What do you do if a storm topples a tree onto your home? First, remove the fallen tree from your home. You can do this yourself or call a local tree removal service/roofer. Once the tree is removed from your home the roofer/contractor needs to cover your roof to prevent additional interior damage.  Depending on your policy and the cause of the damage, insurance will often provide help to pay for the removal of the tree and the covering of your roof.

Always try to call a local tree removal service or local roofer/contractor to get the tree off your home. It’s also a good idea to agree to a reasonable price up-front and in writing if possible. Beware of door-to-door solicitors after a storm or anyone asking for payment for the entire job up-front. Verify that the contractor is licensed and insist upon a contract in writing. Friends and family that have had recent home repairs done are a good source to find a reputable contractor/roofer. Your Farm Bureau Insurance agent is another good resource to help answer questions and provide additional information regarding what storm damage your policy covers.  

If something does happen to your home and you need to file a claim, please call our toll-free number any time at 1-866-275-7322.

Article provided by: Chris Vandergriff, Claims

Arkansas Weekend Celebrations Centered on Homegrown Goodness

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Scripture says the Feast of Booths or Tabernacles was a harvest feast, a colorful and joyous time drawing great throngs to Jerusalem where all would enter carrying a piece of fruit. They called it “the season of our gladness.” More than 2,000 years later, many Arkansans recognize the bounty of the state’s largest industry in similar ways. Agriculture drives Arkansas’ economy and it’s celebrated on summer weekends with fruit festivals. Below are a few favorites to visit.

Cabot Strawberry Festival (May 2-4)

Bright red, juicy and delicious! Taste and purchase fresh strawberries while taking in a carnival, pageant, kid zone, 5k and more. The 20th annual festival focuses on family fun and promoting local businesses, but its stars are Lonoke County strawberry growers. The Junior Auxiliary of Cabot has grown it to one of the state’s most popular festivals with multiple food booths and 120 exhibitors. Facebook.com/StrawberryFestivalCabot

Bradley County Pink Tomato Festival (Jun 14-15)

One of Arkansas’ longer running festivals returns for a 68th year. Pink tomatoes first sold commercially in Bradley County in the early 1920s when cotton became less profitable. Tomatoes are characterized as a pink breed when the skin is translucent, and the interior looks more pink than red once mature. This ‘world famous’ event always happens the second full weekend of June (including a Friday) in the “Land of Tall Pines and Pink Tomatoes.” There is a tomato eating contest and “Great Bowls of Fire” salsa contest, pageants, truck and car show, and live music both nights. Pinktomatofestival.com

Johnson County Peach Festival (July 18-20)

Arkansas’ longest running festival started in 1938 and has only missed a few years due to wars and Covid. Peach Pickin’ Paradise, a local farm in Lamar, provides most of the peaches for the festival at the Clarksville Courthouse Square or you can pick your own at the orchard. There will be a peach eating contest, peach pit-spitting contest, a parade, multiple pageants (Baby Peach, Petite Peach, Princess Elberta) and lots of live music, featuring the Kentucky Headhunters on Saturday night. Festival president Milisa Woodard tells us the greased-pig chase on Saturday morning is her favorite event. Jocopeachfest.com

Cave City Watermelon Festival (July 25-27)

This festival started in the very hot, dry summer of 1980 with 2,400 attendees, including Gov. Bill Clinton. The weather had made melons hard to find but a grower named Herschel Runsick, who planted his in the nearby Strawberry River bottoms, produced enough for that first free feast presented by the Chamber of Commerce. The festival has expanded to three days with up to 10 area growers supplying “the world’s sweetest watermelons.” Catfish dinners, pancake breakfasts, talent shows, watermelon judging contests, 5k runs, ice cream making contests, car shows and local entertainment fill the weekend. Grab a lawn chair, lift a slice of melon and let the juice roll down to your elbows. Cavecitywatermelonfestival.com

Altus Grape Festival (July 26-27)

The 41st annual will include traditional attractions at Altus City Park, but just easing by the beautiful vineyards makes it worth the drive. If you take exit 41 off I-40, you’ll see rows of grapes on rolling hills and a majestic, Romanesque church built with stone in 1902. There will be a grape stomp at the festival, live music, food and beverage competitions, including an amateur wine competition with lots of taste testing. The wine industry has driven the Altus (population 662) economy since 1872. It is an official U.S. viticultural (wine growing) area. Facebook.com/altusgrapefest

Hope Watermelon Festival (Aug. 8-10)

It dates to the mid-1920s when close to 20,000 attended a one-day event and farmers sold ice-cold, giant melons (weighing close to 200 pounds) to passengers on the many trains that stopped in Hope. It became an annual event in the 1970s and is now a three-day celebration featuring chilled melons sold whole or by the slice. There will be close 150 arts and crafts booths from six states, dozens of food vendors, a car show, entertainment and other family-oriented activities like a melon-toss and seed-spitting contest. Hopewatermelonfest.com

Guide to Hiking in the Natural State

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With hundreds of hiking trails, it’s easy to discover the beauty of Arkansas. Whether it’s warm or cold, Spring or Fall, it’s always a good time to hike and see the nature that Arkansas has to offer.  We’ve put together a list of some of our favorite hiking trails for some great outdoor adventures.  Lace up your hiking boots, pack a backpack with snacks and water and head out!

Whitaker Point Trail (Hawksbill Crag)

Located in the Ozark-St. Francis National Forest near Ponca, this trail boasts one of the most stunning viewpoints of Whitaker Creek and the vast valley below.  The trail gets its name from the rock formation outcrop that overlooks the bluff resembling a hawk’s beak.  The 1.5 mile to the (3 miles out-and-back) is rated as moderately challenging. 

Cedar Falls Trail

This trail begins behind the Mather’s Lodge in Petit Jean State Park on Petit Jean Mountain.  This winding trail is 1.9 mile out and back and features one of the tallest waterfalls in the state at 95 foot high.  The trail has a moderate/strenuous rating as the hike to waterfall is downhill and mostly uphill coming back. Once you’re finished, enjoy a delicious lunch at Mather’s Lodge with views of the park. 

Sugarloaf Mountain Summit Trail

Take the Sugar Loaf Shuttle from Fairfield Bay Marina to hike one of the only trails that is accessible by boat.  The Sugarloaf Mountain Summit Trail is about a 0.8 mile out and back hike with steep inclines.  At the top of mountain, you’ll enjoy a panoramic view of Greers Ferry Lake.  Although the shortest hike on this list, the rocky terrain make this one of the more difficult hikes.   

Pinnacle Mountain West Summit Trail

Located just west of Little Rock, this trail begins in Pinnacle Mountain State Park.   This 1.4 mile out and back trail is very rocky and is considered strenuous but the viewpoint at the top is worth the trek.  From the summit, you’ll experience stunning sights of Lake Maumelle, the Arkansas River Valley, the Ouachita Mountains, and West Little Rock.

CenterPoint to Goat Trail

Located in the heart of the Ponca Wilderness, the CenterPoint to Goat Trail is one of the most popular trails in the Buffalo River Valley Area.  This is the longest hiking trail on our list at 5.9 miles out and back and is considered challenging.  The Goat Trail is a narrow ledge that leads out onto the Big Bluff that overlooks the Buffalo River and Ozark Mountains that surround it. 

Boyhood Home of an Arkansas Star

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What if we told you the legendary boyhood home of Johnny Cash has roots in agriculture? That’s right. The land where the home sits hold historic significance, even before the family of Johnny Cash would make it to this small Arkansas town.

All the way back in 1934, the Dyess Colony, a federal agricultural community, was established after the Works Progress Administration provided unemployed Americans with work opportunities. A Mississippi County native and Arkansas’ first WPA administrator, William Reynolds Dyess, moved to Arkansas in 1926 while working in construction. Fast forward to 1930, Dyess would buy a farm near Osceola. In the years after, the colony would see a visit by First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, a change in WPA leadership and financial concerns that all led to the Cash family landing in Dyess.

After Dyess’ death, a man named Floyd Sharp took over as director of WPA. He brought with him the foresight to address financial obligations in the colony that were incurred by occupying homes and working the land. A part of that process included recruiting families from all over Arkansas to the colony. Ray and Carrie Cash were one of those families. They made the move in March 1935 along with their five children, Roy, 13; Louise, 11; Jack, 5; Johnny, 3; and Reba, 1. Not many houses remain from the colony, but the Cash’s home is one.

Johnny Cash would live here until graduating high school in 1950. Taught guitar by his mother and a childhood friend, he began playing music at the age of 12. You can hear the influence that Dyess had on a young Cash throughout his musical career. He also served in the Air Force from 1950-1954. Legend has it that Cash was the first American to be given the news of Joseph Stalin’s death. Upon leaving the Air Force, Cash and his first wife moved to Memphis. From there, he won over a producer at Sun Records, which led to his first recordings in June 1955.

The rest, as they say, is history. In 2011, Arkansas State University acquired the Johnny Cash Boyhood Home and helped make it what it is today. Be sure to make the trip to Northeast Arkansas and visit this historical site! They’re open Monday-Saturday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. with tours of the house given on the hour. Tours include a visit to the museum, which will tell the story of the Dyess colony and a guided tour of the boyhood home of Johnny Cash. 

Finding Fun During an Arkansas Winter

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Warm temperatures are the preference for most Arkansans. If you don’t believe us, just check the nearest body of water here in the Natural State any time between April and October. That said, we often get a little cabin fever during the colder months, so it’s good to have a list of climate-controlled activities that will keep your family active and smiling all winter long.

We’ve pulled together a list of some of the best spots to have a little indoor fun while we wait on the thermometer to rise a bit more. From Smackover to Jonesboro and Little Rock to Bentonville, here’s a list of 9 great options for non-stop action that should definitely hold you over until it’s shorts-and-sandals season again.

Mid-America Science Museum – Hot Springs

Mid-America Science Museum is a resource for innovative Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) and serves as a unique destination for families. It provides an escape for curious minds of all ages and is located less than a mile from Hot Springs National Park.

Little Rock Climbing Center – Little Rock

This indoor hub of fun and fitness features climbing walls, top-rope stations, auto-belay stations, a fitness gym, large bouldering area and much more! Day passes are available and they’re open seven days a week.

Scott Family Amazeum – Bentonville

The Amazeum features approximately 50,000 square feet of exhibit and learning spaces inside the museum to bring learning to life and enhance family involvement, while evoking a sense of curiosity and discovery through hands-on activities.

Forrest L. Wood Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center – Jonesboro

The Forrest L. Wood Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center on the southern edge of Jonesboro tells the story of a unique ridge atop the Mississippi Delta with indoor and outdoor exhibits, films and trails. The three-story facility adjoins the southern boundary of Craighead Forest Park and includes a 5.5-acre prairie, 2.5-acre pond and approximately 100 acres of woodlands. Game and Fish Nature Centers are also located in other areas of the state. See a full list here.

U.S. Marshals Museum – Fort Smith

Complete with immersive exhibits and interactive storytelling, get the history of the U.S. Marshals Service. From tales of colonial days and the western frontier to challenges of a Marshal’s life today, you’ll encounter an America you never knew and be inspired by the men and women whose service and strength helps hold it all together.

Arkansas Museum of Natural Resources – Smackover

South Arkansas is home to the unique story of the 1920s oil boom. Inside the museum, tour a reproduction of a boomtown with an old jail and café. The streets are even lined with vintage trucks and gas pumps. Walking the grounds of the state park, you’ll see working oil field equipment used in the area, including a replica of a 112-foot derrick and a central power station that could pull up to 15 wells.

Blanchard Springs Caverns – Fifty Six

Located in Stone County, approximately 2 miles off Highway 14 near Mountain View, the Blanchard Springs Caverns is one of the most spectacular and carefully developed caves found anywhere. Visitors enter a “living” cave where glistening formations like stalactites, stalagmites, columns, and flowstones are still changing. 

Hijinx – Jonesboro

From bowling to ropes courses to laser tag and everything in between, there’s lots to choose from at this NEA hotspot offering a host of family entertainment options for fun-seekers of all ages and skill levels. The only problem might be getting your family to leave!

Museum of Discovery – Little Rock

The Museum of Discovery is Little Rock’s premier science and technology center, with a mission to ignite and fuel a passion for science, technology, engineering, arts and math through dynamic, interactive experiences. For kids young and old, the museum is a great place to explore the exciting world of science!

Buy Your Holiday Gifts At Arkansas’s Handmade Markets

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Christmas is almost here, which means it’s time to start getting your holiday shopping done. There are tons of options from big box stores, shopping malls, and, of course, online retailers, but why not do something a bit more unique this year? Across Arkansas, you’ll find handmade markets where you can find all kinds of handcrafted items that make the perfect gift for your loved ones. Let’s check a few markers worth checking out this holiday season. 

Arkansas River Holiday Market

arholidaymarket.com

November 4, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

Kay Rogers Park

4400 Midland Ave

Fort Smith, AR 

The Arkansas River Holiday Market is a holiday shopping extravaganza featuring over 120 booths, but there isn’t just shopping to be done. The market also has various food trucks for anyone looking to grab a bite to eat and the North Pole’s most famous resident, Santa Claus, will be making an appearance. 

Mistletoe Market

jltexarkana.org/fundraising/mistletoe-market

November 9–11

4425 Jefferson Avenue #115

Texarkana, Arkansas 

Finding a unique and handmade gift for loved ones in your life will be no problem at the Mistletoe Market. You’ll also find several events for young children like a visit from both Mr. and Mrs. Claus, crafting and story time. There is also a breakfast and brunch. Beyond the great shopping, the market is the largest fundraiser for the Junior League of Texarkana.  

NWA Holiday Market

nwaholidaymarket.com

November 10–11, 2023

Friday, 9 a.m.–8 p.m.

Saturday, 9 a.m.–6 p.m.

1420 S 48th St.

Springdale, Arkansas

The local talent on display at the Northwest Arkansas Holiday Market is second to none. Anything your loved ones want can be found here. Everything from clothing, glassware, tasty holiday treats, handmade woodwork, even custom items for your pets and more. 

Ree’s Royal Winter Market

reesroyalmarket.com/events-1

November 18, 8 a.m.–6 p.m.

4831 Malvern Ave.

Hot Springs, Arkansas

You can choose from over 50 local vendors, crafters, artists, and boutiques at Ree’s Royal Winter Market. Once your shopping is all done, get your fill at one of the several outstanding food trucks on site. Lastly, you can keep your little ones entertained with live holiday music and a petting zoo.

45th Annual Christmas Showcase 

arkansascraftguild.org/christmas-showcase

December 1–3

Arkansas State Fairgrounds, Hall Of Industry

2600 Howard Street

Little Rock, Arkansas

This annual holiday event put on by the Arkansas Craft Guild continues to be the crown jewel of handmade holiday shopping markets in the state. All the best craftsmen and artists throughout the state gather to showcase wood carving, pottery, wooden kitchen tools, stained-glass, handmade jewelry in precious metals and stones, lamp-worked glass bead jewelry and much more. 

Holiday shopping can be hard, but finding high-quality home, life, and auto insurance doesn’t have to be with the help of Farm Bureau Insurance of Arkansas. Use our Agent Finder to contact a local agent and get a fast and free quote today.

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Christmas Parades of Arkansas

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With the summer long gone, and fall getting ready to wrap up, we’re closing in on the most wonderful time of the year. Arkansas has plenty of fun activities around Christmas, one of which is the fantastic Christmas parades that take place all around the state. Here are a few events that are worth checking out this holiday season. 

Christmas Parade of the Ozarks

Springdale, AR

November 25, 2023

One of the earliest Christmas parades you can attend is a post-Thanksgiving tradition in the city of Springdale, Christmas Parade of the Ozarks. Businesses and organizations are encouraged to enter floats for the annual event, as hundreds of families line the streets.

Christmas Parade of Lights

Eureka Springs, AR

December 1, 2023

Floats, bands, walkers, and hundreds of thousands of lights will be on display during the Christmas Parade of Lights in Eureka. As of this writing, the 2023 theme has yet to be announced, but one thing is clear, a certain North Pole resident will be present at the parade. 

North Little Rock Sertoma Christmas Parade

North Little Rock, AR

December 3, 2023

North Little Rock gets in the Christmas spirit every year at the North Little Rock Sertoma Christmas Parade, and in 2023 it returns. The parade will feature various floats, marching groups, decorated vehicles, school groups, local pageant winners, equestrian riders and, of course, Santa. 

Paragould Christmas Parade

Paragould, AR

December 5, 2023

The Chamber of Commerce for Paragould is putting on its annual Christmas tradition, the Paragould Christmas Parade in downtown Paragould. Walking and riding groups will be joined by antique cars, trucks, and tractors. 

El Dorado Christmas Parade

El Dorado, AR

December 7, 2023

The annual El Dorado Christmas Parade is the largest holiday parade in south Arkansas and a huge favorite among the locals. The Square has become the go-to spot to watch floats, bands, and other parade entries as they make their way toward downtown El Dorado.

Celebrating the holiday season across the states means you’ll be on the road, and when you do, you shouldn’t have to worry about car insurance. Farm Bureau Insurance of Arkansas offers high-quality car insurance that keeps you covered. Contact your local agent for a quote today.

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