Human nature is such that any excuse would do for a party! Well what better excuse than to celebrate the existence of elk! This is exactly what happens in the town of Jasper in Buffalo, Arkansas. Established in 1998 when the first batch of elk was successfully reintroduced to the county, the festival has been held annually, growing in stature, popularity and size.The Festival is held over the course of 2 days and the 14th edition is set to get underway on the 24th and 25th of June 2011 at the town square. The festivities bring out the true small town American spirit and a spirit of camaraderie and revelry is enjoyed by residents and tourists alike.
The Annual Buffalo River Elk Festival has several interesting and fun activities to participate in. Artisans from the nearby Ozark Mountains bring in their unique arts and crafts whilst townsmen also put up stalls to display their handiwork. Participants have the opportunity of viewing some of these handiwork and crafts in progress.Live music and street dancing is an integral part of the festival and festivities go on till late at night on both days.Kids have a special part in the festival with Talent shows, and a Fishing Derby for the children being part of the activities organized.
Apart from this the Dutch Oven Cook Off is a roaring success with participants competing heavily in good spirit. Of course it is a plus point that festival goers later get to sample the ‘vittles’ prepared.Being essentially an elk festival, activities such as the Championship Elk calling contest, Elk permit drawing, and other wild life exhibitions play a prominent role in the two day proceeding.If you are looking for a quirky event to participate in, filled with small town charm then the Elk Festival is certainly the place for you. Being a relatively small town, accommodation options are spread out across the surrounding towns. If you are looking for Buffalo NY lodging however then it can’t get any better than the Millennium Hotel Buffalo. This prominent establishment provides the luxurious amenities you seek in the backdrop of a quaint American town and is one of the best Cheektowaga hotels.