I was watching this old Bugs Bunny cartoon the other day in which Bugs goes on a vacation to Ozark Arkansas. The episode, titled “Hillbilly Hare” (made in the 50′s, hence the lack of PC) got me wondering what a trip to the Ozarks would really be like, not only as a destination, but as a vacation! I decided to do some research and see what kind of shenanigans one could get themselves into down there and It turns out there is a lot more to do than belly-flopping into the local watering hole. This is what I found.
1.) Cave City Watermelon Festival
The Cave City Watermelon Festival is held the 2nd week of August every year on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. It is a 3 day extravaganza featuring live Bluegrass, Country, and Gospel Music, seed spitting contests, FREE WATERMELON, craft vendors and more. Bring a blanket or a lawn chair and your dancin shoes, along with a hearty appetite, and sink your teeth into this tasty annual event.
The Mountain View, Arkansas Bean Fest and Great Championship Outhouse Race has been held each Autumn for the last 23 years. Here you can enjoy live folk, and cajun music while munching on a bowl of free pinto beans with cornbread. Stick around and root for your favorite “people powered potty” as the kooky teams battle for the prestigious award!
One thing to definitely not miss on you special trip to the Ozarks is ‘Caroling in the Caverns.’ Each holiday season, traditional Christmas carols are performed deep within the earth at Blanchard Springs’ Cathedral Room. The blend of area folk musicians’ voices and instruments paired with the cave’s perfect acoustics make for one radical X-mas experience.
4.) Wakarusa Music and Camping Festival
By far the most interesting thing to do is this four-day music event held in early June at Mulberry Mountain. It attracts about 18 to 20 thousand attendees for an adventure in all things eclectic. Past festivals have hosted the Flaming Lips, the Black Keys, Wilco, Ben Harper, Widespread Panic, Bassnectar, and more. Camping and swimming are encouraged so bring your suit and tent, and maybe some face paint and juggling balls for good measure.
What are you waiting for? Book your tickets to Arkansas today!
