Colorful Jonquil Festival Welcomes Spring to Arkansas

One of Arkansas' premiere festivals the 56th Annual Jonquil Festival signifies the beginning of the spring season on March 15-16, 2024 in historic Washington State Park.

Jonquil Festival 2024

Washington State Park is a short 45-minute drive through the countryside on Hwy 278 as festival goers get closer to this charming village thousands of colorful blooming jonquils surround you from the side of the road to inside the small community making you feel as though you went back in time to a different period.

There will be plenty to see and do from arts and crafts galore, and tours of the historical buildings including the Blacksmith shop where James Bowie had his knife forged on his way to Texas to fight in the Battle of the Alamo.

Plenty to Eat

The smell of food fills the air from a variety of vendors and you have to try Gator on a stick or take home some freshly made kettle corn, one of my favorites at the event.

Did I mention they have a fantastic classic car show?

And to top it off, Live entertainment and music make this festival one of the best ones in the state this time of the year.

1874 Courthouse

The 1874 Courthouse is the centerpiece of the Jonquil festival where artisans and craftsmen from all over the country set up to sell a variety of unique items you can't find anywhere else. There is also a gift shop located inside the courthouse and if allowed you can tour the top-floor courtroom.

Other notable buildings to visit are the old gymnasium where you will find more crafts the old schoolhouse, the candle shop, and churches.

Old Post Office

The oldest post office west of the Mississippi River resides in Old Washington established on Valentine's Day Feb. 14, 1820.

History Behind Old Washington

Named after U.S. President George Washington to honor him on his birthday on Feb. 22, 1824.  Officially christened in 1965 as a state park it remains listed on the National Register of Historic Places today.

Williams Tavern

One of the most popular places to eat in Old Washington is Williams Tavern where they serve up a good old-fashioned home-cooked country buffet.

Free Admission

The admission is FREE but there is a parking fee.

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