WALNUT RIDGE, Ark.—The Beatles at the Ridge festival returns to downtown Walnut Ridge this weekend, celebrating its 13th year with live music, local vendors, and a dose of Beatles nostalgia.
This year’s festival follows a record turnout in 2025, when attendance reached its highest levels since the COVID-19 pandemic. Excitement for the event has been climbing, with vendor spaces sold out as early as July.
The event comes amid near-record high temperatures, prompting organizers to urge attendees to take precautions against the heat. "Stay hydrated, wear loose-fitting clothing, and protect yourself from the sun," they advised in a statement. Emergency services will be present to respond to any heat-related concerns, and First Choice Healthcare is providing an air-conditioned mobile clinic as a cooling station on-site.
Visitors will find 18 food and drink vendors throughout the festival grounds, offering refreshments to beat the heat and enhance the festival experience.
Live entertainment at the festival kicks off with ATF Martial Arts presenting a fundraising demonstration, followed by a performance by the Williams Singers. Country artist Mary Beth Byrd will make her festival debut at 3 p.m., adding to the excitement. Memphis Jones returns for his third consecutive year, keeping with the event's tradition of fan-favorite performers. Longtime headliners Liverpool Legends, celebrated for their Beatles tribute performances, will take the stage as they have every year since 2011.
Organizers are holding the identity of this evening's opening act under wraps, keeping fans guessing until tomorrow night's surprise reveal.
The festival runs throughout the weekend, promising music, food, and an enduring appreciation for Beatles history in the heart of Walnut Ridge.