Jonesboro, Ark. — The City of Jonesboro and leaders in Arkansas’ rice industry have announced the first-ever Grain and Gather Festival, set to take place downtown next month. Designed to celebrate Arkansas farmers and promote rice, one of the state’s largest crops, the event will span two days and feature food, games, and community activities.
The festival begins Friday, Nov. 6, from 5-10 p.m. on Main Street, between Cate and Washington avenues. Attendees can enjoy rice-themed dishes created by local restaurants, a rice-brat eating competition, and activities for children.
Festivities will continue on Saturday, concluding before the Arkansas State Red Wolves football game against the University of Louisiana Monroe Warhawks at 2 p.m., a matchup called the “Rice Bowl.”
Kelly Robbins, executive director of the Arkansas Rice Federation, expressed hope that the event will generate awareness of the economic and cultural importance of rice in Arkansas. “Things have been kind of tough on our community over the last few years, but we’re here to rally and show support for that community and to make certain that others, even here in northeast Arkansas, are aware of the importance rice plays to our state,” Robbins said.
Robbins explained that Jonesboro was a natural choice for the festival, as northeast Arkansas is among the most productive rice-growing regions in the United States. “Not only is Arkansas the largest producer, but Northeast Arkansas specifically. There’s more rice now grown north of Interstate 40 than south of Interstate 40,” Robbins said.
Organizers hope the Grain and Gather Festival will become a biennial tradition, celebrating the industry’s contributions while fostering community pride.
The event is open to all, and additional details are expected to be announced as the dates approach.