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What’s Buzzing in Van Buren: Harbor, Art & Fall Events
What’s Buzzing in Van Buren: Harbor, Art & Fall Events
A sneak peek: Slackwater Harbor starts 2026, Main Street art banners return, new diner opens, and more fall fun ahead.
The Buzz Staff
Oct 9, 2025
Trivia Question❓What historic event took place in Van Buren, Arkansas in 1838, that involved the forced relocation of thousands of Cherokee Native Americans from their land to present-day Oklahoma? Answer at the bottom of the newsletter |
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Van Buren’s long-awaited Slackwater Harbor project is finally moving forward after years of planning and community anticipation.
Officials have announced construction will begin in early 2026, representing one of the region’s largest infrastructure investments in decades.
This new harbor will provide direct barge access to the city, boosting Van Buren’s industrial capacity and establishing it as a significant hub in Arkansas’s river commerce.
Local leaders anticipate new manufacturing and logistics operations, which will ease congestion on other river ports and spark economic growth throughout the River Valley.
Following nearly a decade of studies, grant applications, and regulatory reviews, all environmental clearances are in place and site work is set to begin next spring.
Once operational, the Slackwater Harbor is expected to handle millions of tons of freight annually, transforming Van Buren’s future as a key trade center in the state. Read More... |
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Arts on Main is kicking off its 3rd Annual Art Banner Project, calling artists of every age to submit creative work for banners soon to line Main Street.
This much-loved River Valley tradition showcases local talent and invites businesses to take part through banner sponsorship.
Registration is open until November 1 at 6 PM, with a fee of $10 for students, $20 for adults, and $150 for business sponsorships.
Sponsoring businesses will be featured on banners beside artists’ creations—a meaningful way to visibly support the arts and boost your profile all season.
Don’t miss the chance to champion creativity on Main Street this year!
Sponsors also receive a free Spotlight Ad in the Van Buren Buzz. For more details or to reserve your spot, email info@vanburenbuzz.com. Read More... |
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Junie B. Jones Jr. – The Musical @ King Opera House |
📅 Thu–Sat, Oct 9–11, 2025 |
Peacemaker Music Festival – Fort Smith, AR |
📅 October 10–11, 2025 |
Halloween Light Show |
📅 Begins Oct 3 (October 2025) |
Van Buren Fall Festival (Historic Main Street) |
Date/Time: Sat, Oct 11, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM & Sun, Oct 12, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM Summary: Downtown street festival featuring handmade crafts, vendors, food, and family fun along Main Street. |
Civil War Weekend at the Drennen-Scott Historic Site |
📅 Saturday & Sunday, October 11–12, 2025 |
$5 Movie Night: The Princess Diaries – King Opera House |
📅 Tuesday, October 14, 2025 |
$5 Movie Night: Practical Magic - King Opera House |
📅 Thursday, October 16, 2025 |
LOOKING FOR MORE EVENTS? |
To see what else is happening this weekend and the rest of the month click here. |
The Crawford County Circuit Clerk's Office in Van Buren has expanded its services to boost local convenience and efficiency.
Now located at 317 Main Street, the office acts as a new enrollment center for TSA PreCheck, helping travelers speed through airport security.
Residents can also apply for Transportation Worker Identification Credentials (TWIC) and HAZMAT endorsements, providing essential credentials for those in transportation and maritime industries.
The community has warmly welcomed these offerings since their September launch, appreciating the ease and timesaving benefits.
Passport services remain available Monday through Friday, and new applications don’t need appointments.
Applicants should bring required documents and payment for fees.
By centralizing these services, the office saves local residents trips to distant locations and continues its commitment to meeting community needs.
These enhancements reinforce the office’s dedication to making life easier in Crawford County. Read More... |
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Meet Jimbo, a charming pup with a knack for gobbling up any tasty treat in sight.
This sweet canine dreams of a spacious backyard to stretch out and lounge in the sun.
Jimbo thrives as the only dog in the home but gets along well with other pups who respect his space.
If you want a loyal hiking companion who’s always by your side—and might sneak a snack if you’re not looking—Jimbo fits the bill.
He’s searching for an adult-only household, where he can explore, relax, and be the goofy, loving friend you’ll adore.
Give Jimbo the forever home he deserves and discover just how much happiness this lovable goofball can bring. Read More... |
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Odie’s Diner has opened its doors in Van Buren, bringing classic hometown comfort food to the former Willie’s Wagon Wheel location.
Early risers and night owls alike can enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner, with breakfast served anytime — making pancakes and omelets just as welcome at sunset as at sunrise.
The menu features traditional diner favorites, including fluffy omelets, savory biscuits and gravy, juicy burgers, and rotating home-style daily specials.
Guests are greeted with the kind of friendly, laid-back atmosphere that makes everyone feel like a regular.
Located at 5300 Alma Highway, Odie’s Diner is open from 5:30 AM daily, closing at 10 PM Monday through Thursday, midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, and 3 PM on Sundays. Whether you’re stopping in before work or craving late-night comfort food, Odie’s Diner is ready to serve Van Buren locals a hot meal and a smile. Read More... |
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🌤️ 7-Day Van Buren ForecastFriday, Oct 10 – Thursday, Oct 16 |
📅 Friday: ☀️ Plenty of sunshine, mild breeze. High near 81°F, Low around 60°F
💡 Outlook: A warm, dry week ahead — great for outdoor events, festivals, and fall markets! No major rain chances expected until next weekend. |
💡 Answer to Trivia Question: The Trail of Tears. |