Every fall for the past twelve years, the colorful frontier heritage of the Arkansas River Valley has comes to life in downtown Fort Smith along the banks of river where much of this intriguing history actually took place, at “Fort Smith Frontier Fest.”

We’re the longest running annual festival along the River and are dedicated to recognizing, and paying tribute and honor to the lifestyles and spirit that make up the rich history and colorful heritage of frontier life on the Western Frontier.

Over the years, the festival has included features that spotlight the lifestyles of fur trappers, the military, Native American influences, and development of agriculture and transportation, and everyday life on the frontier.

One of the unique aspects of this free weekend event is that it is completely volunteer driven by people who have an appreciation for our heritage.

The philosophy of the two day event is to create a stronger appreciation of our current lifestyle by relating to what was considered common in years gone by. Through authentic first person interpretation and hands on activity and entertainment, attendees can better relate our history to the development of modern day.

Last year, we were honored to be recognized by the Arkansas Festival Association with their First Place 2007 Heritage Award as one of the best festivals in the State of Arkansas.

Frontier Fest continues to place a high priority on appealing to children of all ages…..one method is to involve youngsters in actually supervising hands on activity, showing how learning about history can be fun.

Scheduled for October 25 and 26…..this year’s theme is “Tales from the Territory,” and will feature a “Living History Camp” from the 1870’s and 80’s, presented by the 6^th Infantry Living History Association from Fort Gibson, Oklahoma. These interpretations will include music, horses and tack, weapons, food and cooking demonstrations, U.S. Marshals, Cherokee and Choctaw Light Horsemen, Outlaws of Indian Territory and Indian Police.

Another annual favorite, local re-enactment troupes will again provide their special brand of historic re-enactment, with just the right mix of a little frontier humor thrown in.

Hands on children’s activities, a living history timeline at Fort Smith’s National Historic Site and live entertainment will again round out the Frontier Fest programming for 2008.

Fort Smith Frontier Fest-------living proof that Fort Smith’s past is in its future.