The festival features some of the Ozark’s best creative talent. This will include an arts and crafts area with artisans offering unique handcrafted items. Many of them will demonstrate their skills, as well. There will also be live music all day into the night, which will showcase some of the best talent the area has to offer.

For those interested in fishing, hunting or just want more information on our magnificent elk, the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission and the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation will hold several educational seminars during the two day festival.

Professionals as well as amateurs compete in The Elk Calling Contest which is a favorite for everyone. There are three divisions, Youth, up to 10 years old, Junior, 11 to 17 and Adult, 18 and older, with great prizes for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place in each division. Then for those hunting enthusiasts, the elk permit drawings will be held each hour starting at 12 Noon on Saturday.

The Dutch Oven Cook-off is a special treat. The contestants set up their camps, dress in old west style and cook some very tasty dishes in Dutch ovens, over hot coals, just like they did in the 1800’s. Once the judging is complete and the winners are announced, you’ll enjoy sampling the “vittles” they’ve prepared.

There will be plenty of activities to keep the kids entertained. The Kid’s Fishing Derby, for children under 12, is always a lot of fun. The grand prize is a Buffalo Canoe manufactured and donated by Harold & Gary Gordon of Jasper. In addition, the Buffalo National River Park Service and the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission will host several educational and fun projects. The entire festival is a wonderful experience for “kids” of all ages!

After dark, the festival lights up with live music and dancing till 10PM in the spirit of an old fashioned block party, with fireworks on Saturday night.