Upcoming River Valley Events to Put on Your Calendar

Upcoming River Valley Events to Put on Your Calendar

One of the best things about living in the Arkansas River Valley is the sense of community. From long-standing local traditions to football, art, and county fairs, there is always something bringing neighbors together. If you are looking for something fun to do close to home, here are several upcoming River Valley events worth adding to your calendar.

79th Annual Mt. Nebo Chicken Fry — August 29

The Mt. Nebo Chicken Fry returns to Mount Nebo State Park in Dardanelle on Saturday, August 29, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. This beloved River Valley tradition has brought families and friends together since 1948. Come enjoy the mountain setting, local fellowship, and the event that generations of area residents look forward to each year.

While you are there, stop by the Real Broker River Valley — Your Arkansas Home Team tent. We will be serving free loaded teas while supplies last and holding a drawing for a loaded gift basket. It will be a fun day on the mountain, and we would love to see you!

View the Mt. Nebo Chicken Fry event details

Arkansas Tech Wonder Boys Home Opener — September 3

Football season is back in Russellville! The Arkansas Tech Wonder Boys host Southwestern Oklahoma State at Simmons Bank Field at Thone Stadium on Thursday, September 3, at 7:00 p.m. A home game is a great chance to support Arkansas Tech, enjoy the energy of campus, and spend an evening with friends and family.

View the Arkansas Tech event calendar

September Art Walk in Downtown Russellville — September 4

Head downtown on Friday, September 4, for the September Art Walk. The event begins at 6:00 p.m. near 320 West C Street in Russellville. Downtown Art Walks are a wonderful way to explore local creativity, visit area businesses, and enjoy an evening in the heart of the city.

Make a night of it by visiting a downtown restaurant or coffee shop before strolling through the event.

See details from Main Street Russellville

Yell County Fair — September 7–12

The 2026 Yell County Fair will take place September 7 through September 12 at 1899 East 8th Street in Danville. County fairs are part of what makes small-town Arkansas special, bringing together livestock, agriculture, local talent, food, and family entertainment.

Whether you are supporting a young exhibitor, catching up with neighbors, or simply enjoying a night at the fair, this is a great reason to spend some time in Yell County.

Check the Yell County Fair calendar

Pope County Fair — September 15–19

The Pope County Fair returns to Russellville from Tuesday, September 15, through Saturday, September 19, at 517 South Knoxville Avenue. Visitors can look forward to the carnival, livestock exhibitions, local exhibits, entertainment, and plenty of fair food.

Gates open at 5:00 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. Tuesday admission is free, and children age nine and younger receive free admission throughout the fair. Saturday includes both afternoon and evening sessions, so check the official schedule before you go.

Find schedules and admission information on the Pope County Fair website

Arkansas Tech Family Day — September 19

Arkansas Tech University will welcome students and their families for Family Day on Saturday, September 19. Activities begin in the morning, with a Family Day tailgate scheduled for 3:00 p.m. and the Wonder Boys football game kicking off at 6:00 p.m.

Family Day is a wonderful reminder of how much Arkansas Tech contributes to the spirit and identity of Russellville. Some activities require registration or are limited to current students and their families, so review the university’s details before attending.

Explore the Arkansas Tech Family Day schedule

Experience Life in the Arkansas River Valley

Local events do more than fill a weekend—they show what makes the River Valley feel like home. Our communities offer outdoor beauty, historic downtowns, local traditions, college-town energy, and neighbors who still enjoy gathering together.

If you are thinking about buying, selling, or relocating in Russellville, Dardanelle, Atkins, Pottsville, London, Clarksville, Morrilton, or the surrounding River Valley, we would love to help you discover the community and find the right place to call home.

Real Broker River Valley — Your Arkansas Home Team
479-857-3633
www.yourarkansashome.com

Event schedules and admission details may change. Please confirm current information with each organizer before attending.