🐝 Hey Van Buren — Here’s What’s Buzzing This Week!

Fall is in full swing across the River Valley, and there’s plenty happening right here at home.

From a statewide celebration of Arkansas art to local cleanup efforts and a community hero recognized for helping adults achieve their goals — this week’s Van Buren Buzz is packed with feel-good stories, helpful updates, and a few opportunities to lend a hand (or a wagging tail 🐾).

Whether you’re tackling weekend projects, planning your next night out, or just catching up on what’s new around town, we’ve got you covered — all in one quick, friendly read.

Arkansas artists are invited to create commissioned artwork that will help represent the state during America’s 250th anniversary in 2026.

The Arkansas250 Commission, in partnership with the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism and the Arkansas Arts Council, is seeking original pieces that capture the spirit, resilience, and culture of the Natural State.

Artists ages 18 and over who are U.S. citizens—and have lived in Arkansas for at least one year—are eligible to apply.

Applicants must submit an application, sample sketches, a resume, an artist’s statement, and portfolio examples.

Key deadlines include a November 1, 2025 proposal submission and a March 1, 2026 final artwork deadline.

This project offers a rare chance for local artists to leave a lasting legacy as Arkansas honors its rich heritage on the national stage.

Van Buren residents have two valuable opportunities this October to celebrate community pride and safety.

The Fall Cleanup Dumpster Event takes place Saturday, October 18 at 2804 Industrial Park Road, running from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM or until dumpsters fill.

Locals are invited to dispose of large household items, branches, and yard debris — just bring proof of residency.

Items like tires, glass, and old paint aren’t accepted.

This community cleanup, organized by Keep Van Buren Beautiful (KVBB), helps reduce litter before winter, and early arrival is recommended.

The following Saturday, October 25, Van Buren will participate in Arkansas Drug Take Back Day, encouraging residents to safely discard expired or unused prescription medications at sites such as Hudson Pharmacy or the Crawford County Sheriff’s Department.

Keeping our river valley clean and safe starts right here at home.

$5 Movie Night: Practical Magic - King Opera House

📅 Thursday, October 16, 2025
⏰ 6:00 PM
📍 King Opera House, 427 Main St, Van Buren, AR
🎟 Admission: $5
📑 Series Page
Seasonal favorite with magical vibes—perfect for a fall night out downtown.

Bingo Loco

📅 October 17, 2025
⏰ 7:00 PM
📍 Fort Smith Convention Center
📑 Bingo Loco is an interactive 3-hour stage show full of dance-offs, rave rounds, games, and prizes. Get ready to party, shout bingo, and win big—this is bingo like you’ve never seen it before.
🎟️ Tickets: Available via Ticketmaster

Murder & Mayhem (Fort Smith Museum of History)

Murder & Mayhem (Fort Smith Museum of History)

Date/Time: Oct 17, 18 & 25 (evening); Halloween Night special on Oct 31.

Summary: Step into Fort Smith’s haunted past with ghost stories, eerie legends, and chilling history on a ticketed nighttime tour.

Event Details & Tickets

Chili Supper & Pie Auction – Robert Jack VFW Post 1322 Auxiliary

📅 Saturday, October 18, 2025
⏰ 5:00 PM
📍 Crawford County Emergency Operations Center, 1820 Chestnut St, Van Buren, AR
🎟 Admission: $5 per person (Children under 2 free)
📑 More Info
Enjoy a homemade chili supper and pie auction benefitting Operation Christmas to support local veterans and families. Hosted by Robert Jack VFW Post 1322 Auxiliary.

Keep Van Buren Beautiful – Dumpster & Electronic Waste Event

📅 Saturday, October 18, 2025
⏰ Starts 8:00 AM (fills up before noon)
📍 2804 Industrial Park Rd, Van Buren, AR
🎟 Admission: Free community drop-off event
📑 More Info
Bring your electronic waste for responsible disposal. Event starts at 8 AM and usually fills before noon, so arrive early. Hosted by Keep Van Buren Beautiful.

Touch-A-Truck Family Event

📅 Saturday, October 18, 2025 | 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
📍 Chaffee Crossing Artisan Market, off Ellis Street
📑 Hosted by ARCOM’s Emergency Medicine Interest Group, this free event invites families to explore firetrucks, ambulances, and emergency vehicles. Kids can draw on the Scribble Car, learn basic first aid, and care for their own teddy bear “patient” to take home! 🧸
🎟️ Free Admission

VBHS Fall Festival – Van Buren High School

📅 Thursday, October 23, 2025
⏰ 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
📍 VBHS Commons, Van Buren, AR (Parking & entry on the east side)
🎟 Admission: Free
📑 More Info
Family-friendly fall festival with games, face painting, and a petting zoo. Costume contest at 6:30 PM with categories for kids 0–6, kids 7–12, big dogs 13+, and group themes.

The Crawford County Adult Education Center has been named the 2025 Non-Profit Member of the Year by the Van Buren Chamber of Commerce.

This honor celebrates the center’s deep commitment to education and workforce growth across Van Buren.

Under Debbie Faubus’s leadership, the center offers adult learners a chance to gain skills and pursue better careers.

The center’s personalized programs and dedicated support not only empower individuals but also boost the local workforce.

Strong partnerships with businesses ensure programs match real job market needs.

This teamwork benefits both students and the local economy, fueling Van Buren’s ongoing progress.

Recent city developments, including a new Parks and Recreation master plan and upgraded Chamber facilities, highlight a shared vision for growth.

Recognition of the center underscores the vital role of education in shaping Van Buren’s future.

Abandoned at the city park yet overflowing with charm, Ford is the upbeat dog who turns ordinary days into joyful journeys.

This handsome, energetic pup has put his rough beginnings behind him, now sporting a bright grin and a constantly wagging tail.

Still settling in at the shelter, staff have already discovered that Ford is playful, loyal, and eager to become someone’s lifelong copilot.

Favorite activities include tug-of-war ropes, bully sticks, fetch, and outdoor adventures that sometimes end with a splashy creek visit.

Ford adds a bonus package of boundless enthusiasm, a love for water, and a smile that instantly wins hearts.

He thrives as the only dog but could make new furry friends with patience and gentle introductions.

If you want a devoted companion brimming with pep, Ford could be the perfect fit.

Male, Adult, 70 lbs. Available for adoption through Almost Home Shelter Van Buren.

🌦️ This Week’s Weather • Oct 17 – 23