One of Arkansas’ most prestigious events, the 58th Annual Jonquil Festival, is taking place on March 20-21, 2026, at historic Washington State Park.
58th Annual Jonquil Festival March 20-21, 2026 – 9 AM to 5 PM
The Jonquil Festival is a long-time tradition and signals the start of the spring season in Southwest Arkansas, featuring thousands of colorful blooming jonquils in a charming 19th-century village. Old Washington, as the locals call it, has the largest collection of 19th-century buildings in Arkansas.
Old Washington Once Served as the Confederate Capital of Arkansas
Did you know that from 1863 to 1865, Old Washington served as the Confederate capital of Arkansas? One of the most notable buildings is the 1874 Courthouse, the centerpiece of the Jonquil Festival, where artisan and craft vendors gather on the grounds surrounding the courthouse.
Visit the Blacksmith Shop, where the Infamous James Bowie Knife was Forged in Fire
The area around Old Washington was part of the Southwest Trail, where Sam Houston and Davy Crockett passed through, and James Bowie forged the infamous Bowie knife at the Blacksmith Shop on their way to fight the Battle of the Alamo in Texas. During the festival, guests can visit the shop and see first-hand demonstrations on knife forging and hear a history lesson on James Bowie.
Jonquil Festiva Tour of the 1800’s Homes and Buildings in Historic Town
The Jonquil Festival will offer guests tours of the historic buildings, antebellum homes, museums, and the vintage downtown post office, which looks like something you would see on a postcard. There is a fee to tour the museums and buildings.
Dine at the Historic Williams Tavern Restaurant
When you get hungry, make sure to visit the historic Williams Tavern Restaurant, open for lunch from 11 AM to 3 PM. This restaurant is like stepping back in time, with a cozy atmosphere for home-cooked food and a fireplace for the ambiance.
Plenty to See and Do Attractions at the Annual Jonquil Festival
There are also numerous food vendors serving a variety of food and tasty treats on the grounds surrounding the 1874 Courthouse. Every time I go, I have to buy a fresh bag of kettle corn or a funnel cake.
In addition, the Jonquil Festival will feature live music, lively entertainment, family-friendly attractions, and bounce houses for kids.
Visitors will also appreciate the vintage classic car show featuring cars, trucks, and old-time tractors.
Free Admission: 58th Annual Jonquil Festival at Washington State Park
Start making plans now for an unforgettable weekend at the 58th Annual Jonquil Festival at Washington State Park from 9 AM to 5 PM on March 20-21, 2026…