Bring Your Family to one of the 7 Best Fall Festivals in the State
As the leaves turn and the air cools, Arkansas comes alive with vibrant fall festivals celebrating the state’s rich culture, culinary traditions, and natural beauty. These events offer something for everyone, from charming small-town fairs to grand state celebrations. Whether you’re a lover of arts and crafts, a fan of live music, or simply looking to enjoy the beauty of autumn, Arkansas’ fall festivals provide the perfect setting to make memories with family and friends.
Arkansas State Fair
Location: Arkansas State Fairgrounds, Little Rock, AR
Date: October 11-20, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 450,000
Theme: Carnival, Livestock Shows & Family Entertainment
The Arkansas State Fair is a must-visit event that draws nearly half a million visitors each year. With its blend of thrilling carnival rides, live music, and agricultural exhibits, the fair offers a little something for everyone. In 2023, the Best in Show award for livestock went to a prize-winning steer from the Washington County 4-H Club. Visitors can also enjoy a wide range of culinary delights, from classic fair treats like funnel cakes to regional specialties like fried catfish and pecan pie. The fair’s nightly concerts feature performances from well-known artists across various genres, making it a highlight of the fall season.
Hillberry: The Harvest Moon Festival
Location: Eureka Springs, AR
Date: October 10-14, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 10,000
Theme: Americana, Funk & Bluegrass Music
Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Ozarks, the Hillberry Festival is a four-day musical extravaganza that attracts music lovers from across the country. This festival features an eclectic mix of Americana, funk, and bluegrass, with performances from both national acts and local favorites. In 2023, Greensky Bluegrass headlined the event, captivating the audience with their energetic performances. Alongside the music, the festival offers art installations, food vendors, and camping under the stars, making it a unique and immersive experience.
War Eagle Fair
Location: War Eagle Mills Farm, Rogers, AR
Date: October 17-20, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 200,000
Theme: Arts & Crafts in the Ozarks
The War Eagle Fair is one of the premier arts and crafts events in Arkansas, drawing artisans and visitors from far and wide. Set in the scenic Ozark Mountains, this fair features over 250 booths where craftsmen display handmade jewelry, pottery, woodwork, and more. Live demonstrations allow visitors to see the artisans at work, and local food vendors offer a taste of regional delicacies like fried pies and roasted nuts. The fair also provides live music, adding a festive atmosphere to this celebration of creativity and craftsmanship.
King Biscuit Blues Festival
Location: Helena-West Helena, AR
Date: October 9-12, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 35,000
Theme: Blues Music & Cultural Heritage
The King Biscuit Blues Festival is a legendary event that celebrates the rich blues heritage of the Mississippi Delta. Held along the banks of the Mississippi River, this festival features performances from some of the biggest names in blues music, as well as up-and-coming artists. In 2023, Grammy-winning artist Buddy Guy headlined the festival, drawing crowds with his electrifying guitar skills. The event also includes educational exhibits, food vendors serving Southern cuisine, and a special showcase of the historic King Biscuit Time radio show, which has been broadcasting since 1941.
Mountain View Beanfest & Championship Outhouse Races
Location: Mountain View, AR
Date: October 26, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 10,000
Theme: Quirky Fun & Traditional Southern Cooking
For those looking for a truly unique experience, the Beanfest in Mountain View offers a delightful mix of humor, tradition, and community spirit. The festival is famous for its “Championship Outhouse Races,” where creatively decorated outhouses are raced down the street by teams of two. The event also features a bean and cornbread cook-off, where local cooks compete to see who can make the best pot of beans. Visitors can sample the results, enjoy live bluegrass music, and participate in a variety of family-friendly activities.
Downtown Fall Festival and Chili Cookoff
Location: Russellville, AR
Date: October 26, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 5,000
Theme: Family Fun & Culinary Competition
Russellville’s Downtown Fall Festival and Chili Cookoff is a beloved local event that brings the community together for a day of fun, food, and festivities. The chili cookoff is the main attraction, with participants competing for the title of “Best Chili in Russellville.” Visitors can sample different chili recipes, enjoy live music, and browse booths from local artisans. The festival also includes a car show, carnival rides, and a variety of games and activities for children, making it a perfect outing for families.
Motley’s Tree Farm and Pumpkin Patch
Location: Little Rock, AR
Date: September 21 – October 27, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 25,000
Theme: Fall Family Fun & Pumpkin Picking
Motley’s Tree Farm and Pumpkin Patch is a fall tradition in Little Rock that draws families from across the region. The farm offers a wide range of activities, including hayrides, corn mazes, and pumpkin picking. The petting zoo at Motley’s Tree Farm and Pumpkin Patch in Little Rock features a variety of friendly farm animals, including goats, sheep, rabbits, and miniature ponies, making it a delightful experience for children. In the 2023 pumpkin competition, the winning pumpkin weighed an impressive 1,145 pounds, showcasing the farm’s dedication to producing some of the largest and most impressive pumpkins in the region.
Planning Your Trip to a Festival
Arkansas’ fall festivals provide the perfect excuse to explore the state’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Extend your visit by booking a vacation rental through Lake.com. Whether you prefer a cozy cabin in the Ozarks, a lakeside retreat near Hot Springs, or a chic downtown loft in Little Rock, Lake.com offers a range of accommodations to suit your needs. Enjoy the convenience and comfort of a home away from home as you immerse yourself in Arkansas’ autumnal charm. With a vacation rental, you can relax and recharge after a day of festival fun, and maybe even discover a few hidden gems along the way.
