Ozark Folk Festival scheduled in Eureka Springs

Eureka Springs is proud to present the 62nd Annual Original Ozark Folk Festival November 5-7. Music from more than a dozen acts will be featured, with a lineup that includes both seasoned performers and newcomers with exceptional talent.

62nd Annual Original Ozark Folk Festival 2009 Auditorium Schedule

Thursday November 5th
7 p.m. - Queens Contest

Friday November 6th
10am – 12noon Singer/Songwriter Contest FREE
Noon – 2pm Fran Snyder Free with Loudon Wainwright III Ticket $5 at the door

4 – 6pm 3 Penny Acre with Special Guest David Glaser Tickets $5 at the door
6:45 – 7:45 Kim Richardson
7:45 – 8:00 Intermission
8:00pm – 10pm Loudon Wainwright III – Tickets are $30

Saturday November 7th
12noon – 2:00pm Sweet Wednesday Free with Gary Jules Ticket or $5 at the door
4:00pm – 6:00pm Songwriters in the Round with Larry Lee, Michael Brewer, Mark Bilyeu, Lyal Strickland and Randle Chowning Tickets are $15
6:45 – 7:45 Susan Shore
6:45 – 7:00 Intermission
8 – 10 Gary Jules - Tickets are $30

Basin Spring Park Schedule FREE

Friday November 5th
12 – 2 Jones Van Jones
2 – 4 To Be Announced

Saturday November 6th
12 – 2 To Be Announced
2 – 4 To Be Announced
2pm Parade through downtown

The Craft Show Music (in between The Auditorium and Courthouse)

Friday November 6th
12 – 2 Susan Shore
2 – 4 Sweet Wednesday

Saturday November 7th
12 – 2 Chuck Onofrio
2 – 4 To Be Announced

Eureka Springs Events in September

Saturday, September 5th, 2009

FREE Music in Basin Spring Park
Saturday, September 5th, 2009
FREE Music in Basin Spring Park from 12:00 Noon until 6:00pm weather permitting.

Performers are as follows:
Noon - 2:00pm Jones Van Jones
2:00pm - 4:00pm Groves Karate Studio Demonstrations
4:00pm - 6:00pm Opal Fly

FREE Music in Basin Spring Park is brought to you from the Special Events Office of Eureka Springs. Every Saturday and Sunday in April and every Friday, Saturday and Sunday May through October- weather permitting. For more information please contact Eric Young, Special Events Director at 479.253.2586 or send an e-mail to eurekaspringseventsoffice@gmail.com

Saturday, September 12th, 2009

Antique Automobile Festival
Friday, September 11th, 2009 - Sunday, September 13th, 2009
39th Annual event - Hundreds of vintage classics compete for prizes and trophies. Viewing show at the Pine Mountain Village. Parade and re-enactment of the famous (or is it "infamous?!) Eureka Springs bank robbery. For registration and other information, contact the Chamber of Commerce at 479-253-8738 or visit www.eurekaspringschamber.com

1922 Bank Robbery
Saturday, September 12th, 2009
Immediately following the Antique Car Parade, witness the reinactment of that historic 1922 bank robbery where something went terribly wrong. (Loose lips sink ships!) This particular robbery "attempt" was also the first time a motorcar was used as a getaway vehicle in a bank robbery.

A local cast of characters make this a fun, family adventure. Bring the camera!

Ozark Mountain Gospel Festival
Friday, September 11th, 2009 - Sunday, September 13th, 2009
Featuring special guests and America's Groups. Music all around town. Most concerts are free. For more information, call 479-244-6088 or visit www.darry.us

2nd Saturday Gallery Stroll
Saturday, September 12th, 2009
The City's art galleries are joining forces to stage a monthly "Celebration of the Art of Eureka." 6:00pm-9:00 pm.

For more information call 479-253-7679 or visit www.artofeureka.com

Grape Crush Festival
Saturday, September 12th, 2009
4th annual event. Keels Creek Winery. 479-253-9463.

FREE Music in Basin Spring Park
Saturday, September 12th, 2009
FREE Music in Basin Spring Park from 12:00 Noon until 6:00pm weather permitting.

Performers are as follows:
Noon - 2:00pm TBA
2:00pm - 4:00pm Darrel Gleason Trio
4:00pm - 6:00pm James Intveld

28th Annual Woodcarvers Jamboree
Saturday, September 12th, 2009 - Sunday, September 13th, 2009
Woodcarvers from all over Arkansas, Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas will converge on Eureka Springs for the 28th annual Woodcarvers Jamboree to be held under the pines at the Pine Mountain Village on Highway 62, September 12 and 13. The craftsmen and women will demonstrate their prowess and show their wares from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. on Sunday. There will be carvings, wood burnings, and wood turnings of all types. The event is free to spectators. This year's show will feature a "People's Choice Competition" as visitors to the show vote for their favorite carving. Awards will be made for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners. The popular event will also feature on-going demonstrations of carving techniques and plenty of friendly conversation. For more information, contact Bill and Doris Payne, 918-251-8734 or cell phone: 918-408-3481, or e-mail: wudcrvr@cox.net.

Saturday, September 19th, 2009

FREE Music in Basin Spring Park
Saturday, September 19th, 2009
FREE Music in Basin Spring Park from 12:00 Noon until 6:00pm weather permitting.

Performers are as follows:
Noon - 2:00pm Ozark's Chorale
2:00pm - 4:00pm Stella Blue Band
4:00pm - 6:00pm Opal Fly

Saturday, September 26th, 2009

FREE Music in Basin Spring Park
Saturday, September 26th, 2009
FREE Music in Basin Spring Park from 12:00 Noon until 6:00pm weather permitting.

Earthdance Eureka Springs 2009 "Bless The Children"
Saturday, September 26th, 2009
GLOBAL FESTIVAL FOR PEACE 300+ locations in 60 countries! Synchronized Prayer for Peace! Earthdance Eureka Springs presents a 12 hour Live Webcast, global theme "BLESS THE CHILDREN". Open to public, musicians, dancers, speakers, poets, theatre, vendors, art installations, face painting, fire circle, drumming & more.

For More Info: Deerwomon fullbloomproductions@mac.com 479 981-1320 http://www.fullbloomproductions.com and http://www.earthdancenetwork.com/group/earthdanceeurekasprings

Eureka Springs Artists Studio Tour
Friday, September 25th, 2009 - Sunday, September 27th, 2009
Free, self-guided tour. Visit with 21 artists who open their studios to the public. Demonstrations, works in progress and for sale including original paintings, prints, pottery, fiber art, musical instruments, jewelry, found object art and more, behind the scenes with the artists of Eureka Springs. Details and map online at www.eurekaspringsstudiotour.com

Eureka Springs Fat Tire Festival Celebrates Mountain Biking

The 11th Annual Fat Tire Festival in Eureka Springs is scheduled for July 17 -19 and will feature an array of mountain biking events. The festival is presented by Adventure Subaru and is operated under the umbrella of Progressive Trail Design. The Fatty Fest will also be a part of the Dynasty of Dirt Series in 2009. The DOD is a Northwest Arkansas Series of bike events designed to take Arkansas bicycle racing to the next level and bring the many “disciplines of dirt” together.

The schedule of events includes competitive and non-competitive cycling events, and courses that cover cross country elements, downhill, short track and trial runs. A bike parade, film fest and other activities are also scheduled. For a complete schedule of events for the Fat Tire Festival, click here.

There are several new developments for the Fatty Fest 2009 in Eureka Springs. The PTD Downhill course has gotten a makeover and will have a fully dedicated DH line eliminating double traffic. Plus, the makeover has allowed more challenging features to be incorporated, so expect more jumps, kickers and drops as well as tweaked-up existing features. Another new development is that the location for the Phat Tire Short Track (scheduled for the 17th) has moved to a local MX flat track course 4 miles north of town. This all-dirt track allows the entire race course to be viewed at one time, creating a neat spectator aspect for the event. It also promises to be super fast and flat, which will test all of the mountain bike riders.

The weekend before the festival, July 11-12, there will be warm-up events available for those who wish to get in some practice sessions. There will be pre-rides of the XC course, DH practice sessions and an open house at the short track venue. There will also be a time trial challenge on the short track sponsored by Adventure Mountain.

Sunday July the 12th (water permitting) there will be a pedal and paddle on the King’s River brought to you by Adventure Mountain Outfitters and Kings River Outfitters. The adventure includes a guided ride through the Madison County Game Reserve to the spectacular Kettle Falls, boat rental, sack lunch, and bike shuttle.

Eureka Springs Blues Weekend 2009

The 2009 Eureka Springs Blues Weekend will be held on May 28, 29, 30 & 31 in beautiful Eureka Springs, Arkansas.

Confirmed Acts Include:
-Guitar Shorty
-Hubert Sumlin & The Buddy Flett Band
-Joe Louis Walker
-David "Honeyboy" Edwards
-EG Kight
-Candye Kane
-John Nemeth
-Deanna Bogart
-Moreland & Arbuckle
-Mary Flower
-RJ Mischo
-Lee McBee & The Confessors
-IBC Winner JP Soars & The Red Hots
-Ozarks Blues Society IBC Band Oreo Blue
-Ozarks Blues Society IBC Duo
-Kory Montgomery & Isayah Warford
And more to be announced soon!!!

Shows will be held in The Auditorium, Basin Park Hotel's Barefoot Ballroom, Basin Park, and venues around Eureka Springs.

Proceeds from the 2009 Eureka Springs Blues Weekend will go to benefit two non-profit organizations; the Blues Foundation's Handy Artist Relief Fund and Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge.

Ozark UFO Conference in Eureka Springs April 10-12

The 21st Annual Ozark UFO Conference is scheduled in Eureka Springs at the Inn of the Ozarks Convention Center April 10 -12.

The conference includes a myriad of activities, including eight lectures and audio-visual presentations on Friday and Saturday, with Sunday morning featuring mini sessions that spotlight speakers and videotape sessions.

Wendelle C. Stevens, a retired U.S. Air Force Pilot turned UFO investigator and researcher, is one of the scheduled lecturers. He will speak on UFO sightings and film footage, as well as his interest in uncovering the truth regarding UFO’s.

Grant Cameron will address the conference regarding presidential knowledge of UFO’s, and alleged government cover-up conspiracies. Richard Dolan will also discuss government involvement in UFO activities and their continuing cover-ups of said activities. Dr. Paul LaViolette, Ph. D., will discuss reverse engineering of UFO technologies. The study of early Christian writers and their connection to UFO’s will be presented by Dr. Joseph P. Farrell, who has a doctorate in patristics. Local UFO enthusiast Ted Phillips will speak on “The Marley Woods: Ten Years of Research,” which details decades of strange encounters and sightings near Altus Spring Hollow, MO.

Several other presenters will also attend the conference, including Timothy Good, Linda Moulton Howe and Allison Joiner.

Registration is $50 per person or you can register in advance for $45. To register by mail, send information to Ozark UFO Conference, #2 Caney Valley Drive, Plumerville, AR, 72127.

To reserve Eureka Springs Lodging for the UFO Conference, please view all of our selections at ReserveEurekaSprings.com.

13th Annual Eureka Springs Antique Show this Weekend

This 13th Annual Eureka Springs Antique Spring Show will be held at the convention center at Best Western Inn of the Ozarks.

The Eureka Springs event starts on Friday night with a wine and cheese preview reception starting at 5:30 p.m. The Friday night wine and cheese reception offers a sneak preview of over 50 regional and national antique and collectibles vendors. Admission covers the entire weekend.

Tickets for the reception are $10 and include admission to the antique show for the rest of the weekend. If you skip the reception and just come to the show, admission is $2.50 for adults; ages 12 years and younger are admitted free of charge.

For more details, visit www.eurekaspringsantiqueshows.com. The phone number is 479-253-7551.

Eureka Springs St. Patrick's Day Events

As the old saying goes, "If you're lucky enough to be Irish, you're lucky enough!" For the rest of us, St. Patrick's Day, March 17 and one of Eureka Springs' major holidays, is a chance to be Irish in spirit if not in genealogy.

St. Patrick (circa 340 to 460 AD) was a Roman Britain-born Christian missionary, and is one of the three patron saints of Ireland, along with St. Brigid of Kildare and St. Columba. Patrick, captured by Irish raiders at age 16 and taken from his native Wales to Ireland as a slave, lived there six years before escaping and returning to his family. After entering the church, he returned to Ireland as a missionary. By the eighth century he had become the patron saint of Ireland.

It appears Patrick was active as a missionary in Ireland during the second half of the fifth century. Two letters from him survive, along with later hagiographies -- books of saints' lives -- from the seventh century onward.

Pious legend credits Patrick with banishing snakes from the island, though all evidence suggests that post-glacial Ireland never had snakes. One suggestion is that snakes referred to the serpent symbolism of the Druids of that era. Legend also credits Patrick with teaching the Irish about the concept of the Trinity by showing people the shamrock, or three-leaf clover, using it as a metaphor for that Christian belief.

March 17 is believed to be his death date and is the date celebrated as his feast day. St. Patrick has never been formally canonized by a Pope. Even so, various Christian churches declare that he is a Saint in Heaven and he is in the List of Saints. He is still widely venerated in Ireland and elsewhere today.

Eureka Springs St. Patricks Day Events

County Judge Sam Barr will be honored as Grand Marshal for the St. Patrick's Day Parade on Saturday, March 14. The parade will roll at 2 p.m.

Eureka Springs highschooler Amanda Knapp will be honored as the Krewe of Blarney's Sweet Sixteen Colleen.

In addition, Joe Easton will be recognized for having founded the "All Star Kazoo & Free Form Marching Band," which will make its 15th appearance this year, in a private "Roast and Toast" before the parade, administered, complete with Irish serenades, by the Kaptains Klub of the Krewe of Blarney.

The Kaptains Klub, along with the Rowdy Beaver Restaurant, will host an after-parade "Corn Beef and Cabbage" open table for float riders and registered parade units.

On St. Patrick's Day, Tuesday, March 17, Joe Easton will lead the "All Star Kazoo & Free Form Marching Band" in the annual Pub Crawl from Chelsea's to the Cathouse Lounge and back.
Participants should meet at Chelsea's that day at 3 p.m. or anytime before.

Information courtesy of Lovely County Citizen

Robert Burns Weekend in Eureka Springs Celebrates Renowned Bard

Celebrating the 250th birthday of the renowned Scottish bard, the 11th annual Robert Burns Weekend is set for Jan. 23-25 at the 1886 Crescent Hotel in Eureka Springs.
The Burns festival kicks off with the Ceilidh on Friday, Jan. 23, at 7 p.m. at the Crescent Hotel. Music and dance from Scotland, Ireland, Wales and Asturias will be presented in an informal setting.

Four seminars will be presented on Jan. 24 between 10 a.m. and noon. Reg Edwards will speak on the Scottish fiddle tradition, Terry Edwards on the Scottish kitchen, Brent Crow on Ozark Music's relationship to the Scottish/Irish tradition, and Clark on Burn's contemporaries. The Scotch whiskey tasting follows at 3 p.m.

A full program is planned for the Burns Supper at 6 p.m. that evening. Highlights include music, toasts, and the Presentation of the Haggis, a traditional Scottish dish. The weekend concludes with the Burns Sunday Brunch Jan. 25 from 9:30 a.m. until 2 p.m.

For tickets and package reservations, call 800-342-9766.

Information courtesy of The Rogers Hometown News

Eureka Springs Prepares for Mardi Gras Extravaganza

City Advertising and Promotions Commission (CAPC) Executive Director Jim Williams has announced that the city's annual Mardi Gras celebration, Eureka Gras Mardi Gras Extravaganza, has been granted festival status for 2009. The festival takes place Feb. 19-24.
Having festival status granted means that the event will receive significant advertising support from the CAPC. Williams cited two main reasons for the granting of festival status to the Eureka Gras festival. "It's a wonderful reproduction of the traditional, New Orleans-style Mardi Gras celebration," he explained. "As such, it draws folks here from around the state and the entire region."

Former New Orleans resident and Hurricane Katrina transplant Dan Ellis decided to bring the Mardi Gras tradition to Eureka Springs shortly after relocating here. The festival is presented by the organizational group, the Krewe of Krazo ("Krazo" is "Ozark" spelled backwards).

The 4th Annual Eureka Gras, according to Ellis, will be the biggest and best attended. "We had a five-year plan to build the local Mardi Gras celebration, and it continues to proceed right on track," he said. "Each year we're fleshing it out a little more. And we started getting calls about the '09 event months ago."

This year's theme is Art Whirl and All That Jazz. The fun begins Feb. 19 with the Hookers and Jokers Ball at the Best Western Inn of the Ozarks. The following evening, the Royal Court Coronation Ball, with live music and a champagne buffet, takes place at the Crystal Dining Room in the 1886 Crescent Hotel.

The Krewe of Krazo Eureka Gras Parade departs from the Crescent Hotel Feb. 21 at 2 p.m. Colorful floats and festive walkers, throwing beads and candy to the crowd, will wind their way through historic downtown, loop the courthouse, and complete their route at the Art Colony on Main Street. The next morning a jazz brunch is set for the Crystal Dining Room.

Festival goers will gather at the Pied Piper Pub at 4 p.m. Feb. 24 for the Mardi Gras Second Line Krazo Krawl. The pub crawl will feature live music and an array of brunch items. "Crawlers" will visit six different taverns while wearing their full costumes, complete with masks and decorated umbrellas.

Eureka Gras also includes the Fat Tuesday Pancake Supper on Feb. 24, 5-9 p.m., at the Best Western Eureka Inn Gazebo Restaurant. The dinner is a benefit for Habitat for Humanity.

Information courtesy of Carroll County News

An Extraordinary Escape Awaits You in Eureka Springs

Eureka Springs is a unique destination that defines the term extraordinary in many distinctive ways. This vacation getaway is specatacular in many ways, and the following list is just a few reasons why visitors flock to the this sleepy Ozark Mountain town.

• Eureka Springs is the only city in America whose entire historic downtown is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

• One of America’s Dozen Distinctive Destinations (National Trust for Historic Preservation)

• A Top 25 Arts Destination in the U.S. (American Style Magazine 2007)

• Chosen to be in the book, "1,000 Places To See Before You Die"

• One of America’s Top 6 Getaway Destinations (Orbitz.com, 2007)

• A Top 5 Mountain Destination in U.S. (At Home Tennessee Magazine 2008)

• Best Weekend Getaway Destination (Citiscapes Magazine 2007)

• Best Place To Get Married (417 Magazine 2007)

• Favorite Arkansas Weekend Destination (e-Fort Smith Magazine 2007)

• 4th Best Architectural Achievement of the 20th Century, Thorncrown Chapel. (Architectural Institute of America. Following only Sears Tower, Empire State Building and Chrysler Tower)

• Most Romantic BnB in America, Mount Victoria Bed and Breakfast Inn (BedandBreakfast.com, 2007)

• World’s Largest Outdoor Drama, The New Great Passion Play

• World’s Largest Big Cat Sanctuary, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge

• World’s Largest Tuned Wind Chime, Celestial Windz Harmonic Bizarre

• Largest Christ Statue in North America, Christ of the Ozarks

• Listed in Ripley’s Believe It Or Not 9 times!

• Zero stop lights, malls and mega-stores

• Award-winning restaurants

• We are known for our ghosts, too! Crescent Hotel was featured on the show “Ghosthunters” on the Discovery Channel. Other historic hotels and buildings downtown reputedly haunted as well. Several ghost tours available.

Information courtesy of Eureka Springs Advertising & Promotions Commission

Eureka Springs Holiday Events Offer Shows, Parade

Eureka Springs Holiday Events

A Season of Celebration
Monday, November 10th, 2008 - Saturday, December 13th, 2008
You are invited to join the cast and crew of the Pine Mountain Theatre for A SEASON OF CELEBRATION. Special holiday shows nightly except Sunday from November 10 thru December 13. (No shows November 20, 26, 27) The lobby gift shop opens at 10:00 am. Kids are admitted free of charge. Free popcorn!

Hoe-Down Holiday Show
Sunday, November 16th, 2008 - Sunday, December 14th, 2008
The Ozark Mountain Hoe-Down has holiday fun scheduled as well. P. Nutt, Ponytail, Granny, Girl and the gang will perform their Christmas show nightly from Nov. 16 through Dec. 14.

Lighting Display
Tuesday, November 18th, 2008 - Wednesday, December 31st, 2008
The New Great Passion Play has turned on its extraordinary lighting display. Each evening at 5 p.m., through Dec. 31, more than 100-lighted figures are illuminated on the mile-long drive-through the grounds. Admission is free.

The Texans
Friday, November 28th, 2008 - Saturday, November 29th, 2008
The Passion Play’s Christmas Music Show begins Nov. 21. Weekends, at 5 p.m., Nov. 21 to Dec. 20, the show features The Texans and B.J. and Elizabeth. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children ages six to eighteen.

Fall Art Show
Saturday, November 29th, 2008 - Sunday, November 30th, 2008
Arts Eureka presents the Eureka Springs Fall Art Show on Thanksgiving weekend, Nov 29-30, 2008. A full house of artists, many local and regional artists and some new ones as well, will cover the walls of the convention center with their work.The art show will be held Saturday from 9 a.m. until 7 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the Best Western Inn of the Ozarks Convention Center. Arts Eureka's goal is to make this show fun, fun, fun for artists and attendees, with free gift giveaways every 15 minutes and plenty of new and exciting twists to an already fabulous show.

Eureka Springs Christmas Parade
Friday, December 5th, 2008
Eureka Springs Annual Christmas Parade. This evening parade features floats, walkers, bands, and thousands of lights as it makes its way through downtown Eureka Springs.

Eureka Springs Fall Art Show

Arts Eureka presents the Eureka Springs Fall Art Show on Thanksgiving weekend, Nov 29-30, 2008. A full house of artists, many local and regional artists and some new ones as well, will cover the walls of the convention center with their work.

The art show will be held Saturday from 9 a.m. until 7 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the Best Western Inn of the Ozarks Convention Center in Eureka Springs. Arts Eureka's goal is to make this show fun, fun, fun for artists and attendees, with free gift giveaways every 15 minutes and plenty of new and exciting twists to an already fabulous show. For information contact Peggy Hill at 479-253-5826 or 888-790-9091.

Information courtesy of Eureka Springs Chamber of Commerce

Eureka Springs Ozark Folk Festival Starts Nov. 6

The 61st annual Ozark Folk Festival will be held in Eureka Springs from Nov. 6 through Nov. 9 and will feature Patty Larkin, Melanie Safka, Still on the Hill and others in shows in the City Auditorium, Basin Park and other venues.

The festival begins with a free show at 7 p.m. Thursday featuring Noah Earle and 3 Penny Acre, along with a folk festival queens contest.

The 7 p.m. Friday auditorium show will present singer-songwriter Larkin, plus opening act Vagabond Van, featuring Greg Klyma and Tom Bianchi. Tickets are $ 20.

At 1 p.m. Saturday, there will be a free concert in the auditorium by Still on the Hill, a Northwest Arkansas group that does Ozark-style music.

The annual parade will start at 2 p. m., after the show by Still on the Hill.

At 3 p.m. Saturday, an auditorium show will open with Fran Snyder, followed from 4 to 6 p.m. by Songwriters in the Round, with Natalie Zukerman, Danielle Miraglia, Raina Rose and Maia Archote. Tickets are $ 17.

At 7: 30 p.m. Saturday, 3 Penny Acre will open an auditorium show, followed by another “Songwriters in the Round” which will feature Bianchi, Jonathan Byrd, John Elliott, Klyma, Miraglia and Rose.

Safka — who was known only by her first name, Melanie, when she was one of the few “folkies” at the Woodstock festival in 1969 — will perform at the festival’s closing show, at 2 p.m. Sunday in the auditorium. Tickets are $ 25.

Melanie’s hits in the early 1970 s included “Lay Down (Candles in the Rain ),” “ Peace Will Come (According to Plan ) ” and “Brand New Key.” For more information, call (888 ) 855-7823 or see the Web sites www. theaud. org or www. ozarkfolkfestival. com.

The festival, which calls itself “the longest, continually running folk festival in the United States,” was honored on Wednesday by being named one of two Arkansas festivals (the other was the Magnolia Blossom Festival and World Championship Steak Cook-off ) to make the list of “Top 100 Events in North America for 2009,” as selected by U. S. and Canadian state and provincial tourism offices and convention and visitors bureaus, with judges considering “the events’ broad appeal, their accessibility to motorcoaches and skill at handling large groups, and a variety of other criteria.”

Information courtesy of Arkansas Democrat Gazette

Eureka Springs Christmas Ball to Benefit Historical Museum

The 6th annual Eureka Springs Historical Museum's Christmas Ball and silent auction will be held from 7 to 11 p.m. on Dec. 6 in the 1905 Basin Park Hotel Ballroom, the museum board has announced. Ticket price includes complimentary hors d'oeuvres and wine.

Dancing to the J.M. Combo and a large silent auction are highlights of the event. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. The ball is the museum's principal fundraiser for the year, providing essential support for the continued operation of the museum.

Eureka Springs Historical Museum is a 501(C) (3) non-profit corporation. Call the museum at (479) 253-9417 for tickets and information, or e-mail eshm999@sbcglobal.net. The ball follows the annual Christmas Tour of Homes sponsored by the Eureka Springs Preservation Society, which is held on the same day. Victorian dress is suggested, but is optional.

Autumn Events Spice Up Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Fall War Eagle Mill Antique Craft Show
Thursday, October 16th, 2008 - Sunday, October 19th, 2008
Fall War Eagle Mill Antique Craft Show. Wide variety of food concessions. For more information call Zoe Caywood at 479-789-5343 or email info@wareaglemill.com

Haunted Hayrides
Wednesday, October 1st, 2008 - Friday, October 31st, 2008
Again this year, Bear Mountain Log Cabins will offer haunted hayrides every night during the month of October.

Wagons will leave the stables beginning at dark and will make trips every hour and 15 minutes.

Reservations are required as space is limited. $10.00 for adults and $7.50 for children. This ride is suitable for all ages. Couples, singles, families, groups!

Last year's event sold out so make your reservations early.

(toll free): 800.805.8005
Phone (local): 479.253.6185


Howl-O-Ween Carnival
Saturday, October 25th, 2008
Saturday, October 25, 2008

Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge - 7 miles south of Eureka Springs on Scenic Hwy. 23
7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Admission: $15.00 adults / $10.00 Seniors and children 3-12/ Children under three admitted free.

Everyone is invited to attend this fun and exciting annual event!
See over 100 exotic cats up close and personal.

Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge 13th Annual Halloween Party is open to the general public and includes:
-Nocturnal viewing of over 100 exotic cats and other animals.
-Haunted ‘Trail of Terror.’
-Children's costume contest/parade.
-Games/prizes.
-Concession stand – food & soft drinks.

Visitors to the Refuge during the day are allowed free entry to the party in the evening.

The Original Ozark Folk Festival Returns to Eureka Springs

The Granddaddy of them all—the country's longest continuously running folk festival—returns to Eureka Springs this fall with a lineup that includes fourteen performers, free concerts, a songwriting contest, Ozarks arts and crafts booths and demonstrations, and a new feature: songwriters in the round.

The 61st Annual Original Ozark Folk Festival will take place November 6-9. "It's a beautiful time of year in the Ozarks," commented city Special Events Coordinator, Janet Alexander. "America's oldest continuous folk festival, set in our fantastic fall foliage, makes for a truly extraordinary escape."

The weekend begins with the traditional Queens Contest in The Auditorium Nov. 6 at 7 p.m. Music will be provided by award-winning songwriter Noah Earle. The event is free. Guest host for the 2008 Original Ozark Folk Festival is singer/songwriter Greg Klyma, who will perform Friday and Saturday nights at the Aud. The festival is sponsoring the release of his newest CD, Rust Belt Vagabond. Friday night's headliner at the Aud is Patty Larkin. Descended from a long line of Irish-American singers and taletellers, she began classical piano studies at age 7, became swept up in folk music in the 60's, taught herself guitar and wrote songs throughout high school and college. She's been heard nationally on radio programs including Mountain Stag and NPR's World Café. Opening for Ms. Larkin is Vagabond Van, featuring Klyma and Tom Bianchi. Admission is $20 for the Nov. 7, 7:30 p.m. show.

The songwriting contest, long a staple of the Ozark Folk Festival, is set for Nov. 8 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Basin Spring Park. Prospective entrants should email Janet Alexander at eurekafestivals@gmail.com. The public is invited to watch and listen for free. The annual Folk Festival Parade follows at 2 p.m., winding through the streets of historic downtown.

Two "Songwriters in the Round" shows are planned for Nov. 8. Natalia Zukerman, Danielle Miraglia, Raina Rose and Maia Archote take turns showcasing their creations from 4-6 p.m. Admission is $17. Miraglia and Rose return for the 8 p.m. concert, joined Klyma, Bianchi, Jonathan Byrd, John Elliott, and Chris Bradley. Admission to the second show is $25.

"The Songwriters in the Round feature was added this year to give folks a chance to see a large number of current and rising folk stars for the price of one ticket," Alexander explained. "I think everyone will be amazed at the quality and variety they'll see at these shows."The festival will showcase local artisans and craftspeople in street-side booths. Visitors will also see demonstrations of crafts from the past, such as blacksmithing and quilting. Additional events are being added for the festival's final day, Sunday, Nov. 9.

Information courtesy of Ozark Folk Festival

Eureka Springs Ranked as Top 25 Art Destinations

Eureka Springs will be honored as one of America's top 25 arts destinations on Sept 13 by Zarks Gallery and American Style magazine.

The presentation of a commemorative plaque will be made before an audience of art enthusiasts, retailers and leaders during the second Saturday Gallery Stroll, to celebrate the city's recent designation as one of America's top 25 arts destinations.

This year, Eureka Springs was ranked in the top 25 among American cities for the high quality of its art galleries, festivals, institutions and events.

American Style magazine is a national arts lifestyle magazine for art enthusiasts, collectors and travelers.

For details, call Sara Armellini at 253-2626 or e-mail zarks@arkansas.net.

Eureka Springs Bluegrass Festival Takes the Stage August 21st

Another great year at the Eureka Springs Bluegrass Festival is lined up for Eureka Springs Bluegrass Music fans. Join us August 21 through 24, 2008 for Mr. Big's Bluegrass Family Gathering.

Thursday evening Bluegrass pickers from all over will participate in the annual watermelon extravaganza at the Basin Park in downtown Eureka Springs, Arkansas at 7P.M. Everyone is invited and encouraged to bring their instruments. This event is free to the public. Last year we had over 60 musicians participating in the event along with lots of people and watermelons.

Friday features great shows downtown in Basin Park and at the Auditorium as well as an open jam at the Rodeway Inn (Swiss Holidy Resort) after the shows on Friday.
Saturday the bluegrass music continues downtown with several concerts thoughout the day and evening and the festival concludes on Sunday with some great Bluegrass Gospel Music.

For a complete performance schedule, click here.

Ticket price: Friday & Saturday shows: $15.00
Sunday Show: $15.00
Family Discounts for 4 or more
To order tickets: Call 479-253-7788 or visit http://www.theaud.org/

Information courtesy of Eureka Springs Bluegrass Festival

Art Galleries Galore in Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Eureka Springs has been known as a haven for artists for half a century.

This area includes some serious and highly acclaimed artists, and a sense of joy runs through the creative community. You can feel the difference when you enter a local gallery.

You can enjoy visiting the city's galleries any time, but if you're around on Saturday, Aug. 9, don't miss the Second Saturday Gallery Stroll.

Each month from April to December, a select group of galleries stay open from 6-9 p.m. for a special evening. Participating galleries have a colorful banner outside. Most of these galleries are on Spring Street. There's a new incentive to visit all the member galleries this year. Beginning on August 9, you can pick up an entry card at the first gallery you visit and have it punched, then visit all the other galleries in any order at your convenience and have your card punched. Turn the card in at the last one you visit and you will be entered into a drawing for a $500 gift certificate that can be used at any or all of the member galleries. The drawing will be held on September 14 in Basin Spring Park and participants need not be present. The winner will be notified by email.

While you admire a broad selection of locally-produced art works, you can also enjoy free refreshments. A glass of wine and a little plate of hors d'oeuvres will put you in just the right mood to appreciate the kind of artistic production which has made Eureka Springs famous.
The members of the Eureka Springs Gallery Association include the Eureka Fine Art Company, the Quicksilver Gallery, 83 Spring Street, Iris at the Basin Park, Zarks Gallery, The Jewel Box, and Susan Morrison's Signature Gallery, all of which are on Spring Street.

Another member of the association is Serendipity at the Crescent, located within the Crescent Hotel.

Information & Image courtesy of Lovely County Citizen

Shakespeare in the Ozarks Kicks Off Premiere Season in Eureka Springs

To be or not to be, that is the question. For John Merritt, however, the answer is an overwhelming yes.

On Saturday, July 19, the newly formed non-profit Shakespeare in the Ozarks, in collaboration with TheatreSquared, a professional theatre company from Fayetteville, will kick off its first season with a special performance of William Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream in Basin Spring Park in Eureka Springs.

Shakespeare in the Ozarks is being spearheaded by Merritt, a longtime patron of Shakespeare festivals.

After relocating to the area, Merritt saw a vacuum he felt needed filling.

"When you Google 'Shakespeare festival,' over 90 hits in the U.S. come up," Merritt said. "However, there are no seasonal outdoor open-air festivals at all in Arkansas."

Merritt said his vision for Shakespeare in the Ozarks is committed to two basic tenets: To strive for high quality productions that will garner critical acclaim, and to create an outdoor venue that is as close to the core of downtown Eureka Springs as possible, in order to maximize its positive impact on the community.

"I believe there is something quite transformative about experiencing a live Shakespeare performance outside in a pleasant park setting, especially in the evening," Merritt said. "Half the fun is staking out your own personal space with blankets, lawn chairs and picnic baskets to relax in anticipation while waiting for twilight to fade and the stage lights to go up. The other aspect I feel is critical is having the venue located centrally so that it feeds on and contributes to the energy and vitality of the Eureka Springs urban experience."

Shakespeare, perhaps the most famous writer in history, penned at least 36 plays between 1592 and 1611, including Romeo and Juliet, Macbeth, Othello and A Midsummer Night's Dream, a romantic comedy portraying the adventures of four young lovers and a group of amateur actors, and their interactions with the fairies who inhabit a moonlit forest.

The play is one of Shakespeare's most popular works for the stage and is widely performed across the world.

Merritt cited Eureka Springs' mild climate, natural scenic beauty and historic context, as well as its nationally recognized arts culture, as factors making Shakespeare in the Ozarks a natural fit with the city.

The group's long-term vision is to provide a venue that complements the Arts and Cultural District master plan for North Main Street, which includes a section of Grand Avenue terminating at Harmon Park.

Merritt wants to eventually reinstate an open air theater in Harmon Park, the site of an old summer auditorium.

While there are no plans to reconstruct the elaborate 1890s structure, demolished for salvage during the 1930s, the historic site retains a dished-out ampitheater earth-form that has great potential for an intimate theatre experience.

Performances on the site would take advantage of the natural acoustics of the dramatic natural rock outcropping behind the audience area.

In addition to Shakespeare productions, Merritt hopes the site could be used for other community productions and collaborations, including children's theatre.

For the moment, however, and by way of introducing the idea of an outdoor Shakespeare festival to the community, a one-hour adaptation of A Midsummer Night's Dream will be performed Saturday, July 19 at 6:30 p.m. at Basin Spring Park, and Sunday, July 20 at 5:30.

The performances are free to the public and patrons are encouraged to bring their own chairs.
The alternative rain venue will be at Gavioli Chapel.

Information courtesy of Lovely County Citizen
Image courtesy of Legends of America

Fat Tire Festival Spins its Wheel in Eureka Springs July 18

The 11th Annual Eureka Springs Fat Tire Festival, the largest event of its kind in the central United States, returns here July 18-20, presented by Adventure Subaru.

The mountain bike event in the tiny Ozark mountain getaway town of Eureka Springs will include both competitive and non-competitive cycling events. All races are free to spectators, as are the bike parade, film fest and several "fun" rides.

One key change will be the location of Saturday night's cross country pre-registration and Observed Trials awards. They will now take place at the Pied Piper, located on Spring Street just a few hundred yards south of the Auditorium.

Everyone will be entertained with music, fatty films, food, and beverage specials and a "one of a kind" party atmosphere.

Competitive cross-country (XC), downhill and short track races are scheduled, as well as Observed Trials. Non-competitive events include a Trimble Ranch Ride, two children's fun rides, and two Black Bass Back Street Races. Black Bass rides are non-competitive and are fun rides, not races.

Last year's event drew over 1,000 participants and spectators from all over the country. This year's festival will be "fatter" than ever, according to event organizer David Renko.
He explained, "Word keeps spreading about what a fantastic place Eureka Springs is for mountain biking. And with $5,000 in cash and prizes up for grabs, we expect 'Fatty '08 to be our biggest yet."

The event's name is derived from the size of tires required for traversing the challenging mountainous terrain.

The non-competitive Black Bass Back Street Race kicks off the weekend July 18 at noon, starting at Harmon Park. The event offers an opportunity for the casual cyclist to experience the scenic, tree-lined back roads seldom seen by the casual tourist.

Downhill practice and XC course pre-rides follow that afternoon. Pre-registration for all events is from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at Harmon Park.

That is also the site for the first competitive event of the festival, the Phat Tire Short Track race, which starts at 7 p.m. Friday.

Saturday's competitive races include the Downhill at Lake Leatherwood Park at 9 a.m. and the Super Fat Trials at Harmon Park at 2 p.m. The "PTD" Downhill will be spiced up thanks to Progressive Trail Designs, which has revamped the course and added some new features.

Two non-competitive rides are also set for Saturday. The Children's Fun Ride begins at 10 a.m. Saturday at Lake Leatherwood.

A guided ride on one of the newest "Fat" single track courses in Northwest Arkansas takes place at noon at Trimble Ranch in Berryville, eight miles east of Eureka Springs.

Sunday's highlight is the crowd-pleasing, photo-op-filled XC Race to the Lake. That event begins at 9 a.m. at Basin Spring Park and concludes at Lake Leatherwood Park. A Children's Fun Ride, hospitality tent and awards ceremony follow, also at Lake Leatherwood.

One significant change this year is that all Lake Leatherwood Park events will be staged from the sports fields and not the day use area. The entrance to the fields is located just east of the road to the day use area of Lake Leatherwood on U.S. Hwy. 62.

Entry fees for participants range from $15 to $35 depending on events entered and classification.

Information & Image courtesy of Carroll County News

Northwest Arkansas Paddle Festival begins July 26

Lewis and Clark Outfitters is teaming up with the city of Eureka Springs for a day of paddling at Lake Leatherwood.

The July 26 event - called the Northwest Arkansas Paddle Festival - is being held in place of Lewis and Clark's annual Beaver Paddle Festival due to high water and flooding in the Beaver Town area There will be kayak and paddling clinics, demonstrations by vendors, games and other activities. Lewis and Clark Outfitters has stores in Rogers, Fayetteville and Little Rock.

For more information, go to www. gooutandplay. com.

Fat Tire Festival in Eureka Springs Returns this July

The 2006 Fat Tire Festival begins in Eureka Springs July 18 and lasts through July 20.

The most notable change this year is that the XC finish will be at the Lake Leatherwood Ball Field complex and NOT the day use area. The course will be predominately the same except that the expert classes will endure additional loops on Miner’s Rock instead of the lake loop. More on that in the coming days.

The “PTD” Downhill will be spiced up thanks to Progressive Trail Designs. They will be revamping the course and added some new features. The “Super Fat” Observed Trials will be at Harmon Park as usual, and the “Phat Tire” Short Track will return for it’s second year thanks to support from “Phat Tire” Bike shop out of Bentonville AR.

One other key change will be the location of Saturday night’s XC pre-registration and Observed Trials Awards. They will now take place at the Pied Piper located on Spring Street just a few hundred yards south of the Auditorium. Here we will all be entertained with music, fatty films, food, and beverage specials and a "one of a kind" party atmosphere.

Also new this year will be a guided ride on the Trimble Ranch in Berryville, just a few miles east of Eureka Springs. These new area trails are sweet and only open by invitation.

Join a crew on Saturday at 12 noon to ride 8 miles of the newest “Fat” single track in NWA.
Stay tuned and all of the details for the 2008 Adventure Subaru Fatty Fest will be revealed. Get ready for the best Fatty Fest ever.

For information on the XC event and it’s place in the Arkansas Mountain Bike Championship Series go to http://www.ambcs.com/

Information courtesy of Fat Tire Festival Organization

XTERRA Eureka Springs Returns to Lake Leatherwood

The wild hills and plentiful waterways of Eureka Springs have attracted outstanding people from every walk of life for decades. Now they will bring a new breed of athlete to town.
 

On Saturday, June 7, competitors from more than 12 states will converge here for a day of extreme off-road competition as the 3rd annual XTERRA Eureka Springs Off-Road Triathlon and Trail Run returns.

With the most significant topography between the Appalachians and the Rockies, the Ozark Mountains will provide the backdrop for one of the most challenging race courses in the country.
  

The event will take place in the 1,600-acre Lake Leatherwood City Park. The race will consist of a 1/2-mile swim, 13-mile mountain bike race and 5-mile trail run.

A separate 3.5-mile trail running race will take place in the morning before the off-road triathlon.

Event organizers are expecting as many as 200 athletes at this year's race. "Each year we are blown away by the support offered by the business community and by individuals willing to volunteer their time for this event," said director Nick Cross. "Participants in our race recognize community support is what helps set XTERRA Eureka Springs apart from other events. We are quickly developing a reputation as a top-notch stop on the XTERRA America Tour."

The off-road triathlon will utilize a wave start for the 1/2-mile swim, with racers charging into the waters of Lake Leatherwood from the swim beach. Racers then scramble 200 yards to the transition area and the start of the mountain bike phase of the race.

The mountain bike course is a mixture of single and double track trails that are semi-technical and include challenging rocky terrain, steep climbs and several fast descents.

The running course contours around the mountains on the west side of the park. The trails are mostly smooth, with some rocky and technical sections. There are two challenging climbs on the route.

This race is the first in the Arkansas Triple Crown series, where male and female racers who compete in all three Arkansas XTERRA races can vie to be crowned Arkansas XTERRA champion.

The race course passes through the grassy meadow, which serves as the hub of race operations, three times during the day, so spectators can view the race as it unfolds.

Local band Mountain Sprout will perform throughout the event.
  

Following the race, there will be an awards banquet for participants and volunteers. Awards will be given for the top three finishers in each age group, with prizes awarded to the top three overall finishers. As with previous XTERRA events, there will be gear giveaways and door prizes.
  

A post-race party will be held at the Pied Piper Pub, with exclusive beer and food specials for XTERRA Eureka Springs participants.

The 2008 XTERRA America Tour, now in its eighth year, will host more than 50 events in 32 states across the country, plus the Commonwealths of Guam and Saipan. XTERRA is the only series of its kind for age group multisport athletes, providing a bona-fide championship competition within specific geographic regions.

The first XTERRA race was held in 1996 with 123 competitors in Maui. The demand for the sport exploded thereafter, and there are now more than 20,000 competitors, ages 13 to 71, from all 50 states and more than 30 countries worldwide.

Information and Images courtesy of Lovely County Citizen

2008 Eureka Springs Blues Weekend Line-up Announced

The “Queen of the Blues,” Koko Taylor, and Native American blues band Indigenous will headline shows at THE Auditorium May 29 and 30, respectively, as part of the 2008 Eureka Springs Blues Weekend, presented by The historic 1905 Basin Park Hotel. The complete weekend lineup, including 70 shows at 15 venues in 4 days, was announced recently by city Special Events Coordinator, Janet Alexander, and event organizer, Charles Ragsdell.

“Earlier this year, Eureka was proud to host the King of the Blues, B.B. King,” commented Ragsdell. “And now we’re bringing the Queen of the Blues to town in the same year—fantastic!”

Blues Weekend begins May 29 and runs through June 1. Major acts are also scheduled for The Barefoot Ballroom and Ozark Room in the Basin Park Hotel. Friday blues diva LZ Love and Baton Rouge bluesman Larry Garner perform. On Saturday the venue features Ruf Records artist Deborah Coleman, and Arkansas' own Michael Burks.

Blues concerts are also planned at numerous clubs around town. Venues include the Cat House Pub, Center Street, Chelsea’s, Eureka Live, Henri’s, Jack’s Place, Lumberyard, Pied Piper, Rowdy Beaver, Shawbee’s, and Tiki Torch.

The city’s lineup of free Blues Weekend shows is the most extensive in recent years. Eighteen free shows are scheduled at Basin Park. They run hourly from Noon to 5 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, and from Noon to 3 p.m. on Sunday. “It could be our most ambitious schedule ever,” commented city Special Events Coordinator, Janet Alexander. “One of our goals this year was to give people lots of quality choices, and I think we’ve accomplished that!”

Acts appearing at the various clubs around town and in Basin Park are Michael "Hawkeye" Herman, The Ariels, Rich Berry, Geri 'Black and Blues', Delta Highway, The Eureka Street Buskers, Full House, Joe Giles and The Homewreckers, Scott Holt, Anna Horton, Gary Hutchinson Duo, Jones Van Jones, The Jug Band, Karian, Kosmik Debris, Jeff Lee, Brian Martin, Oreo Blue, Oysters Rockefeller, Joe Pitts Band, Patrick Sweany Band, Penelope and The Unusual Suspects, Pope County Bootleggers, Rockin' Jake, Spent, Stella Blue & Maddog, The Tablerockers, Lil' Dave Thompson, Underground Mafia, Vance Orange Project, and Dayton Waters. Other acts are still to be announced.

Trampled Under Foot, 2008 International Blues Challenge (IBC) winners, will open for Koko Taylor on Thursday night. Featuring siblings Danielle, Nick and Kris Schnebelen, the group bested some 100 bands from around the world at The Blues Foundation's annual battle of blues bands in Memphis in February. Danielle was the talk of Beale Street, wowing people with both her bass playing and her amazing vocals, and Nick won a new Gibson guitar and Category 5 amp for the Albert King Award for Most Promising Guitarist.

Opening for Indigenous Friday night will be acoustic guitar virtuoso Rory Block. Her most recent album was a much-lauded tribute to blues granddaddy Robert Johnson. As the second act on the bill that night, Phil Berkowitz and The Sean Carney Band will perform a 100th birthday tribute to Arkansas' own "Jukebox King," Louis Jordan. The Sean Carney Band was the 2007 IBC winner. Louis Jordan was born in Brinkley, Arkansas in 1908, and went on to chart 57 Top-40 hits (54 Top-10), including Let The Good Times Roll, Caledonia, Saturday Night Fish Fry, and Choo Choo Ch' Boogie.

“This year we will be offering VIP ticketing for rows in the center -front at both the auditorium and Basin Park Barefoot Ballroom shows, so we encourage everyone to get their tickets quickly” Ragsdell said. Tickets and information for the 2008 Eureka Springs Blues Weekend are available by calling 888-855-7823 or by going online at eurekaspringsblues.com.

The Eureka Springs Blues Fest is a lot of fun for everyone. The unique features of Eureka Springs combined with talented blues musicians makes for a popular weekend too. Be sure to reserve your Eureka Springs Lodging early.

An Evening with Jeff Greenwald in Eureka Springs

Strange Travel Suggestions with best-selling travel author Jeff Greenwald

Join acclaimed travel writer Jeff Greenwald (author of "The Size of the World" and "Shopping for Buddhas") for a night of comedy and storytelling. Part stand-up, part improvised monologue, his enthralling stories and witty insights are inspired by the vagaries of severe wanderlust. You don't want to miss this one-night-only performance.

Come early for dinner specials offered at the Grand Taverne. Cash bar available during the show.
Location: Grand Central Hotel, 37 North Main St., Eureka Springs
Time:8:00 pm
Price: $20.00 per person. Purchase online at www.rareclick.com/jeff For additional information call 707-331-0903 or email dawn@rarebrick.com.

Performance proceeds will help establish a Travel Writing Fellowship at the Writer's Colony at Dairy Hollow.Sponsored by: The Peabody House, Historic Cottages of Eureka Springs, Grand Central Hotel, The Grand Taverne and Rare Click Travel Writing and Photography.

2nd Annual Romancing the Springs Wedding Show in Eureka Springs

The weekend of Friday, February 22nd through Sunday, February 24th, 2008 Eureka Springs offers visitors a taste of what wedding dream look like when they come true.

Will your wedding be ordinary or Extraordinary? Come see what Eureka Springs has to offer at our Annual Bridal Show February 22-23, 2008.

While attending, guests can register to win a $10,000 dream wedding. The show is held at the Best Western Inn of the Ozarks Convention Center.

Show Schedule:

Friday-February 22..........6:00PM to 8:00PM Romancing the Springs Bridal Showcase at Best Western Inn of the Ozarks Convention Center.Saturday

February 23rd...................10:00AM to 4:00PM Romancing the Springs Bridal Showcase at Best Western Inn of the Ozarks Convention Center.

Sunday-February 24th.....Open House at select Wedding Vendors in Eureka Springs.

Come join us! Win a Dream Wedding worth $10,000!!

Legendary B.B. King set to Perform in Eureka Springs

It has been estimated that blues great B.B. King has played more than 10,000 shows in a career spanning nearly 60 years. Whenever the King of the Blues has carried his venerable guitar Lucille onto any stage at any time, the performance has become an unforgettable classic.

If you’ve ever wanted to witness one of these classic performances, Eureka Springs has the solution. The legendary B.B. King is performing in Eureka Springs January 27, 2008. The unique Auditorium Theater is hosting this renowned musician, along with special opening act Kory Montgomery.

This one-time only event will begin at 8pm on Sunday, January 27, with doors opening an hour before show time. Tickets run $116.50, including tax and fees, and there are no age restrictions for this event. However, be sure to leave your camera in the car as they are not allowed inside The Auditorium. The performance is scheduled to run 90 minutes, with no intermission. Concessions and merchandise will be available.

Tickets are still available, but reserve today, as this show is sure to sell out! Join Eureka Springs, Arkansas in welcoming this one of a kind blues legend.

December Events for Eureka Springs

A Season of Celebration

Monday, November 5th, 2007 - Saturday, December 8th, 2007

“A Season of Celebration” Holiday Shows at Pine Mountain Jamboree, nightly except Sunday.

Trail of Lights

Monday, November 19th, 2007 - Monday, December 31st, 2007

Both Eureka Springs and Berryville will be participating in the Arkansas Dept. of Parks and Tourism's 2007 "Trail of Lights."Additional information will be posted as it becomes available.

Free Christmas Lights Extravaganza at The Great Passion Play

Tuesday, November 20th, 2007 - Monday, December 31st, 2007

Each night starting Nov. 9th thru Dec. 31th , at dusk until 9:00pm, Sunday thru Thursday and Friday and Saturday until 11:00pm, we will feature a drive thru Christmas light extravaganza (bigger and better than before). There is no charge for this event; however, donations will be accepted. Also, our magnificent gift shop will be open from 10:00am until 4:00pm Monday thru Thursday, and 10:00am until 8:00pm Friday and Saturday.

Christmas Celebration at the Great Passion Play

Friday, November 30th, 2007 - Saturday, December 1st, 2007

The Great Passion Play is proud to announce our 2007 Christmas Music Celebration event. Starting Nov. 9th & 10th (Friday & Saturday) and running each Friday & Saturday thru Dec. 15th for a total of 12 nights.Headlining the program will be two Christmas music show performances each night featuring the “Texans” beginning at 5:30pm and 7:00pm.Tickets will be $10.00 for adults, Children 6-18 will be $5.00 or $30.00 for a family pass. Also, this ticket will include admission to The Sacred Arts Center which will be open from 4:00pm until 7:30pm daily during performances.In addition, each night starting Nov. 9th thru Dec. 31th , at dusk until 9:00pm, Sunday thru Thursday and Friday and Saturday until 11:00pm, we will feature a drive thru Christmas light extravaganza (bigger and better than before). There is no charge for this event; however, donations will be accepted.Also, our magnificent gift shop will be open from 10:00am until 4:00pm Monday thru Thursday, and 10:00am until 8:00pm Friday and Saturday.

Candlelight Tour of Homes

Saturday, December 1st, 2007

The 25th Annual Tour of Homes will take place Saturday, December 1 from 2pm-7pm. Take a stroll through history as you tour through some of the most illustrious homes along Spring Street. Many of these homes have been lovingly brought back to their original stately manor while others have been thoroughly updated with fantastic modern amenities. The attention to detail in each of the locations makes this tour truly special for both the history buff, those that love the Victorian architecture, and those interested in seeing architectural works of art.There are over 14 locations participating in this year’s Holiday Tour of Homes and special attention to decorating for the holidays is happening within them. Several of the locations have been completely renovated just in time to participate in the tour this year.“We are delighted to have so many home owners participating in this years Tour of Homes,” shares Dee Bright, president of the Eureka Springs Preservation Society. “We have been thrilled with the level of enthusiasm and excitement. It is beginning to feel a lot like Christmas!”The Tour includes choir music, children caroling, refreshments, docent tours of each location, jazz bands and Victorian merriment throughout Spring Street. This is a lovely location to begin your holidays. Come for the first time and make it a holiday tradition.Tickets will be available November 1, 2007 at the Eureka Springs Chamber of Commerce and at the Eureka Springs Historical Museum. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 the day of the tour. Children under 12 are free. For more information please contact 800-638-7352.

Christmas Ball

Saturday, December 1st, 2007

Eureka Springs Historical Museum's annual fundraiser. The Christmas Ball will be held from 7pm-11pm at the 1905 Basin Park Hotel Ballroom. Dance to the sounds of the Jack Mitchell Quintet. Complimentary Wine & Hors d'oeuvres, Silent Auction and Cash Bar. Call Ginni Miller at 479-253-9417 or email at eshm999@sbcglobal.net for more information.

Ozarks Chorale Winter Concert

Saturday, December 8th, 2007

From its early beginnings of fewer than 30 voices, this year the 60-plus voice Ozarks Chorale begins its work in September. The musical library of the Chorale ranges from Classical works such as Handel's "Messiah" with accompanying orchestra to Dave Brubeck's "Take Five" with Jazz ensemble accompaniment. Romantic works such as Brahms "Liebeslieder Waltzes" to gospel, pop, folk, musical theater and movie songs are Chorale favorites. The Chorale boasts the ability to sing anything from Bach to Beatles!Come join the Chorale to experience the beautiful music that is planned for the 2007-2008 season: Nov 17, 2007 "Sounds of the Season" Concert Holiday Island ClubhouseDec 8, 2007 "Old Fashioned Christmas" Concert Eureka Springs City AuditoriumApr 20, 2008 Spring Concert Eureka Springs City Auditorium

2nd Saturday Gallery Stroll

Saturday, December 8th, 2007

The tradition continues in Eureka Springs! The City's art galleries are joining forces to stage a monthly "Celebration of the Art of Eureka." From April to December, on the second Saturday of each month, galleries on Spring Street and all around the town will open their doors from 6-9:00 pm. A colorful banner hanging outside each one will identify galleries participating in this fabulous fun event. Inside, you will find all artist-made goods, ranging from gold and silver jewelry to paintings, glass, ceramic, wood and much more. Representing more than 2000 artists, these Eureka Springs art and fine craft galleries offer an unsurpassed collection of wares, propelling Eureka Springs to the top 5 small cities in the country for art. Celebrate the Art of Eureka, take a stroll through the town on the second Saturday of the month and enjoy seeing an eclectic collection of art! For more information, call 479-253-7679. See you on Second Saturdays in Eureka Springs!

Home for the Holidays Concert

Friday, December 14th, 2007

Eureka Springs Home for the Holidays Concert at the City Auditorium.

John Two-Hawks Concert

Saturday, December 15th, 2007

Holiday concert with Native American flute player, John Two-Hawks at the Eureka Springs City Auditorium.For tickets and other information, please call 866-444-0940 or 479-253-5826 or visit the website at http://www.johntwohawks.com/