Downtown Walnut Ridge will come alive this Saturday, September 19, as thousands of visitors gather for the Beatles at the Ridge festival. Known for a full day of live entertainment, food, vendors, and family-friendly activities, the free event is a staple in the region.
The festival opens at 10 a.m. and spans several blocks on the north side of Main Street. More than 110 vendors, including 18 food vendors, have secured spots for the day, according to organizers.
“This year’s Beatles at the Ridge is going to be packed with music and a lot of fun activities,” said Peyton Tillman, chair of the festival committee. “All of our vendor spaces are sold out, so there’s going to be a lot to see, and the music will be outstanding, as always.”
Headlining this year’s festival are the Liverpool Legends, the popular Beatles tribute band from Branson, Missouri. Their performance begins at 7 p.m. on the Cavenaugh Chevrolet Rock n’ Roll Highway Stage.
Other acts will perform throughout the day, including the following: - ATF Martial Arts demonstrations at noon. - The Williams Singers, the traveling choir of Williams Baptist University, at 1:30 p.m., featuring gospel, pop, and spiritual music. - Marybeth Byrd, an Arkansas native and finalist on both NBC’s *The Voice* and ABC’s *American Idol*, at 3 p.m. Byrd blends country, gospel, and pop styles in her performances. - Memphis Jones with his All Memphis Music Review at 5 p.m., celebrating the legacy of the Memphis music scene.
In addition, the KASU Roots Stage in Beatles Park will host performances starting at 2 p.m., featuring local and regional acts like the Jazz Buskers, Silver Wings, Delta Legends, and the Spencer Brothers.
The Abbey Road Car Show will run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Northwest 3rd and West Walnut streets. Organized next to Regions Bank, the show offers awards in several categories, including antique, classic, modern, and favorite truck. Entry is $20, with vehicle line-up beginning at 9 a.m. near Walnut Ridge City Hall.
Families can also enjoy a dedicated children’s area, which includes bounce houses, face painting, and the Morley Family Magic Show.
“Our entire community comes together for Beatles at the Ridge, and we take pride in presenting one of the premier festivals in the state of Arkansas,” said Terrence Ward, executive director of the Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce. “It is an amazing opportunity every year to welcome so many visitors, and it’s a welcome boost to our local economy, as well.”
The festival concludes after the Liverpool Legends’ performance.
Additional information about the event is available at [beatlesattheridge.com](http://beatlesattheridge.com).
