Arkansas Riverfest 2007 in Little Rock, Arkansas

The Arkansas Riverfest in Little Rock is an annual event Memorial Day weekend of each year in the capitol city. This year’s event is sure to be one to remember as the 30th Anniversary of the festival. I remember Riverfest being free when I was a kid, but those days are no more. Tickets can be purchased at the gate or at any area Harvest Foods in advance. Advance tickets are $10 (for all 3 days) and tickets at the gate are $15 (for all 3 days).

Along with the price hikes, Riverfest has attracted better live music in the last few years. I’ve had the opportunity to see Hootie and the Blowfish (who was great), the Black Crowes (also great) and the Doobie Brothers in the last several years. Not too shabby for a little festival in the Natural State. This year’s lineup includes Smashmouth, George Clinton (who I’ve seen several times at Memphis in May) and (yummy) L.L. Cool J. And some country people that I’m not really sure who they are like Montgomery Gentry. If you’re interested in an act at the Axciom/Miller Lite Stage (which is the actual Riverfront Amphitheater) but you’re NOT interested in fighting the crowds, you can (for a fee) reserve an outdoor table at Boscos, whose patio overlooks the stage.

The events are all day with magic shows, ventriloquists and gymnastics. Sunday night ends with the famous Osborne Family Fireworks Show. The trickiest part of the festival is buying anything, especially booze. You have to stand in line and show your ID to get a free “21 and over” wristband. In addition, you have to stand in line to exchange your cash for “River Bucks,” which is the only currency taken by any vendor in the festival. Good luck with that.

Parking downtown – sucks. There are shuttles available, but be careful to catch the last one if you’re leaving late. A friend and I missed the last shuttle a few years ago (it was IMPOSSIBLE to get from the NLR side to the shuttle in time to catch the shuttle after the last event) and we had to wait about an hour for a taxi. Shuttles are available at War Memorial Stadium and a to be determined North Little Rock location. Last year it was NLR High School, the parking lot of which was a little dark and creepy.

It is my understanding the Travelers will be playing a game at the new Dickey-Stephens each day the festivities, which will make the North Little Rock side that much more hectic. That sounds SUPER fun, but I REALLY have to suggest taking the parking shuttle.

Business travelers, this will be THE thing to do if you’re in town Memorial Day weekend (of any year). Keep in mind if you’re staying downtown that parking may will be a challenge.

According to the “History” section of the official Riverfest website, the festival was born in 1978. So was I. I will turn 29 this year, but the festival will somehow miraculously turn 30. I’m not sure how that works, but enjoy the 30th Anniversary.