Newport, AR — Downtown Newport will host its annual Downtown Festival on Saturday, October 3, promising a day full of music, competitions, family-friendly activities, and entertainment.
Julie Allen, director of the Newport Area Chamber of Commerce, said the free event has something for everyone. “There will be something happening all day long, from BBQ and basketball in the morning to live music, contests, and one of the biggest entertainment acts of the evening. We encourage everyone to come downtown, spend the day, and enjoy everything Newport has to offer,” Allen said.
The festival kicks off in the morning with a slate of competitions, including the Backyard BBQ Showdown, where teams will compete for cash prizes in categories such as Ribs, Boston Butt, and Anything Goes. Festival-goers can watch the teams in action as they cook throughout the day.
Downtown streets will also host the Hoopin’ in the Port 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament, offering divisions for men, women, and youth age 12 and under. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top performers in each division.
Train enthusiasts can visit the Rails Along the River Model Railroading Expo at the train depot, which will feature model railroad displays and layouts. The Newport Cruisin’ & Crawlin’ Show will bring a wide assortment of vehicles, with cars, trucks, motorcycles, ATVs, side-by-sides, and Jeeps lining the streets for attendees to view.
In the afternoon, live entertainment will take over the downtown stage, beginning with a performance by local musician Brandy Lee. The festival will also feature Michael Jackson contests and Kids Karaoke, giving children the chance to showcase their singing abilities.
Evening festivities will begin with a performance by the band The Breakdown, followed by the headlining event: MJ LIVE, billed as the #1 Las Vegas Michael Jackson tribute concert. Known for its national acclaim, the production will bring Michael Jackson’s iconic music, dance moves, and costumes to Newport for a special performance.
Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs for the evening entertainment. Admission to the festival and evening concerts is free of charge.
Food and vendor booths will be available throughout the day, with beverages served in complimentary Downtown Entertainment District cups from The Watering Hole and Postmaster Spirits.
For more information or to register for festival events, visit #MonsterSeriesNewport on Facebook or contact the Newport Area Chamber of Commerce at 870-523-3618.