Arkansans usually laugh when the first of autumn rolls around. Sure, we try hard to break out cozy sweaters and pumpkin spiced everything, but it sure is hard to enjoy a latte while sitting in a sweat puddle. Inevitably, after the first few weeks of denial, the weather will eventually cooperate and we can comfortably snuggle and sip steaming ciders. If you want to pretend like autumn is here, you’re in luck. These are the 10 best harvest festivals in Arkansas.

1. Hillberry: The Harvest Moon Festival (Eureka Springs)
Flickr/Richard Turner
When it comes to family-friendly fall events in Arkansas, this one can't be beat. Eureka Springs is all about rocking out during this four day long music fest. Come dance under the harvest moon October 10-13, 2019.
2. Turkey Trot (Yellville)
Flickr/Jeff Noble
Get your gobble on at Marion County’s favorite festival. A Turkey Trot 5k and Miss Drumsticks Pageant are just two of the events happening. This fest takes place downtown October 11 and 12, 2019.
3. Chili Cook-off & Harvest Fest (Bytheville)
Facebook/Main Street Blytheville
This year will be the 39th annual harvest fest in downtown Bytheville. Highlighted by a chili cook-off, this fest has plenty of food and a beer garden. Check out the different vendors September 27th and 28th, 2019.
4. HARVEST! Festival (Little Rock)
Flickr/Nicolas Henderson
Voted one of the best festivals in Arkansas by the Arkansas Times and Arkansas Democrat Gazette, this is a one day fest that's full of autumn adventure. This festival features an array of live music and a gumbo cook-off.
5. Arkansas Cornbread Festival (Little Rock)
Facebook/ SoMa - Little Rock's Southside Main Street Project
A vital part of any southern meal, cornbread takes the spotlight for this festival in the SoMa area of Little Rock. Get a little taste of homecookin’ on October 26, 2019.

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6. Celebrate Fall in the Gardens (Hot Springs)
Flickr/AR Nature Gal
Walk through Garvan Gardens and enjoy the signs of a lush summer turning to a colorful fall. The Gardens will have Hoptoberfest, a pumpkin patch, and a succulent topped pumpkin workshop for guests this fall season. Add this to your list of things to do in fall in Arkansas!
7. Downtown Fall Festival & Chili Cook-Off (Russellville)
Flickr/Dave Thomas
Starting the day off with a breakfast buffet, Main Street Russellville will be filled with local vendors and carnival fun. The fest features a Chili cook-off and Pie & Cake Contest October 26, 2019.
8. Ozark Folk Festival (Eureka Springs)
Flickr/Manny Moss
Championed as America’s longest continuously running annual folk festival, this is a perfect fall weekend to spend in Eureka Springs. Take part in the 70th annual Barefoot Ball or compete in the Singer/Songwriter Contest between November 6-10, 2019.
9. Pioneer Village Fall Fest (Searcy)
Pioneer Village
This is one of the more unique fall festivals in Arkansas. Join in the historic fun of this preservation project turned fall fest. The Village will be a walk-through representation of White County’s late 19th century buildings. Learn a little history from period dressed volunteers and enjoy the craft vendors, petting zoo, and local music November 2, 2019.
10. Duck Fest (Stuttgart)
Flickr/Jimmy Emerson, DVM
The duck capital of the world lives up to its name during the week-long festival. Call in the fall at the World’s Championship Duck Calling Contest or see who takes the crown at the Queen Mallard Pageant. Don’t forget to taste some of the entries of the Duck Gumbo Cook-off November 23rd, 2019.

Did your favorite festival make the list? What are your favorite things to do in fall in Arkansas?

If you need more to do in Arkansas this season, then take one these picture perfect fall day trips

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More to Explore

Best Harvest Festivals In Arkansas

Elisa Regulski | September 14, 2019

What other types of events take place in fall in Arkansas?

In addition to these exciting harvest festivals, Arkansas is known to host thrilling craft fairs. One of the most popular festivities takes place at the War Eagle Mill. Over 250 vendors set up shop and showcase their wonderful goods. You could spend hours scouring the selection. After you’ve shopped ‘til you’ve dropped, refuel at the Bean Palace Cafe. Visiting The War Eagle Mill Fall Crafts Fair is a wonderful all-day event. If you loved this, then you should definitely visit the Fall bonfire at Rodeo Of The Ozarks in Springdale, Arkansas. You’ll really get in to the fall spirit at this seasonal event.

What are the best family-friendly activities to do in the fall in Arkansas?

Fall is the perfect time to gather up the kids and visit a pumpkin patch. Motley’s Pumpkin Patch, located in Little Rock, has so much more than just colorful gourds. There’s also a tractor-drawn wagon ride and a colorful play area. Every weekend at Motley’s feels like a harvest festival! Roseberry Farms, located in Benton, is another popular place to visit in autumn. No matter which destination you turn to, you’re certain to have a lovely time.

Which Arkansas town is the best to visit in the fall?

Sheridan is the best town to visit in Arkansas during fall. During the first weekend of October, this small town hosts TimberFest. This annual tradition celebrates Sheridan’s unique logging industry. In addition to craft booths, scrumptious food, and family fun, this quirky festival hosts a one-of-a-kind lumberjack competition.

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