Arkansas is no stranger to small-town festivals. In fact, we are known for having some of the quirkiest festivals in the country. Some of these festivals have been around for over 75 years, and these traditions are still going strong. One such event is the Yellville Turkey Trot which began in 1946, making it one of the oldest festivals in Arkansas. Featuring a parade, street dancing, a turkey calling contest, a lip-syncing competition, a Miss Turkey Trot pageant, and more, you should attend this event at least once. So, mark your calendars for October 13 and 14, to experience this one-of-a-kind, small-town festival in Arkansas.

Since 1946, the folks of Yellville have been gathering in the town square to celebrate the annual Turkey Trot Festival.
oldest festivals in Arkansas
Turkey Trot - Yellville - by Rotary/Facebook
Currently sponsored by the Mid-Marion County Rotary Club, this quirky festival has faced some controversy over the years.
However, through it all, it has remained one of the longest running small town festivals in Arkansas.
oldest festivals in Arkansas
Turkey Trot - Yellville - by Rotary/Facebook
The theme for this year's event is "Ring of Fire" because the dates coincide with the upcoming eclipse. You might need to bring your specialty glasses to witness both events.
The festival is rooted in Ozark tradition and features a unique wild turkey calling contest. Gobble Gobble!!!
Yellville Turkey Trot
Plus, you might see turkey floats, turkey costumes, and possibly live turkeys, you never know what you're gonna get.
Thousands of folks will line the town square to enjoy all that the quirky festival has to offer.
Turkey Trot - Yellville - by Rotary/Facebook
Some festivities include multiple pageants, a 5k race, a popular lip-syncing contest, as well as tons of live entertainment.

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In addition, there will be street vendors, food trucks, arts and crafts, game booths, and everything we love about festivals in Arkansas.
Turkey Trot - Yellville - by Rotary/Facebook
Of course, the annual parade is one of the highlights of the day.
Turkey Trot - Yellville - by Rotary/Facebook
Expect to see lots of themed floats, costumes, marching bands, as well as folks just having good wholesome fun.
Turkey Trot - Yellville - by Rotary/Facebook
With live music and lots of entertainment, you never know what spontaneous festivities you'll witness at this event.
Turkey Trot - Yellville - by Rotary/Facebook
The kids will have a blast getting their faces painted as well as dancing in the streets.
Plus, there are games and competitions that will keep the crowd entertained.
Turkey Trot - Yellville - by Rotary/Facebook
With its Ozark traditions, the festivities as well as the wholesome, small-town fun, I recommend that you witness this event at least once. So, this coming October, mark your calendars to experience the Turkey Trot, one of the oldest festivals in Arkansas.

Have you ever been to the Turkey Trot Festival in Yellville? If so, what did you like the most about this quirky event in Arkansas? Sound off in the comments below. To learn more about the festival, follow the Turkey Trot website. And don’t forget to read our previous article about things to do in the town of Yellville.

If you would like to extend your time in Yellville, here are a few nearby rustic cabins and rentals that we recommend.

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