The state of Arkansas hosts several craft shows and festivals. These events are held across the state and feature hand-crafted items for sale. From jewelry to quilts and stained glass to metal work, craft enthusiasts can find what they are looking for at festivals held in Arkansas. The events are held in either early spring or late autumn.
The Bella Vista Arts and Crafts Festival is held near Bella Vista, Arkansas each October. The festival is sponsored by the Village Art Club; proceeds from the festival support artists who live in northwestern Arkansas. The festival is held outdoors on a field under tents. All goods for sale at the festival must be handmade and each exhibitor must apply for the chance to display their creations during the festival.
Held on the War Eagle Mills Farm, just over 20 miles from Springdale, Arkansas, in late October is the War Eagle Fair. The fair is held on the floor of a valley and parking is available on nearby meadows. No admission is charged for entry to the fair and parking is free. All exhibitors must meet quality standards and create their own goods by hand. A wide variety of crafts are available for purchase, including stained glass, wood carvings, paintings, metal workings and baskets.
The Historic Washington State Park in southwest Arkansas hosts the Jonquil Festival. Held each year in mid-March, the Jonquil Festival features arts and crafts as well as entertainment. Admission to the festival is free, but a parking fee of $5 is charged. Visitors may also tour nearby buildings and homes in the park for a fee.
In early March, Texarkana, Arkansas hosts the Miller-Bowie Quilt Show. At the Four States Fairgrouds, over 200 quilts are displayed and vendors are on-hand. Door prizes are awarded and a raffle for a quilt is held, in addition to community appreciation awards. While most vendors sell quilts, a scissor-sharpening booth is also available.
The Hot Springs Arts and Crafts Fair is held at the Garland County Fairgrounds in Hot Springs, Arkansas the first full weekend in October. The fair is held completely indoors. Besides many types of crafts, the fair also has food, pony rides and a petting zoo. Some crafts available include handmade jewelry, jar candles, handmade wood furniture, soap and kettle corn.
