ARTrageous Parade

The ARTrageous Parade turns downtown Eureka Springs into a moving gallery on May 2, 2026, from 2 PM to 4 PM, showcasing handmade costumes, live performances, and the town’s creative spirit in a free, two-hour procession. This arts-forward celebration draws locals and visitors who line Spring Street to watch artists, musicians, and community groups parade past Victorian storefronts in outfits that range from whimsical to wildly imaginative. Expect papier-mâché creatures, costumed dancers, painted bikes, and spontaneous street performances that blur the line between parade and happening. The route winds through the historic district, with participants stopping to interact with the crowd, pose for photos, and occasionally pull spectators into the action. The vibe is playful and inclusive, with no corporate floats or rigid structure—just homegrown creativity on display.

Who Should Go

Families with kids who love color and movement will find plenty to watch, while couples and solo travelers who appreciate folk art and community celebrations fit right in. Artists visiting for studio tours often build a weekend around the parade, and friend groups seeking a quirky, low-pressure afternoon activity enjoy the anything-goes energy. This is Eureka Springs at its most unapologetically artsy, so travelers looking for polish might prefer the galleries over the parade route.

Logistics and Timing

Arrive by 1:30 PM to claim a spot near the Basin Park area, where the route offers the best views of the Victorian backdrop. Parking downtown fills by early afternoon on parade day, so walk from your lodging or arrive by noon to secure street parking (free but limited). Bring folding chairs or blankets if you’re settling in with kids, and dress for May weather in the Ozarks—typically mid-60s to low 70s, with occasional rain. If you arrive late, the parade stretches several blocks, so finding a mid-route viewing spot is usually manageable. The event is free, with no tickets or entry fees, though some participants sell handmade goods before and after the parade. If rain threatens, the event has proceeded in light drizzle, but heavy storms occasionally push the parade to a later time (check the Eureka Springs Downtown Network for updates). Plan B includes browsing the town’s 100+ galleries, many of which stay open late on parade day.

Where to Stay and What Else to Do

Stay in downtown Eureka Springs to walk to the parade and explore galleries between events. Victorian inns and boutique hotels cluster near Spring Street, and Lake.com lists properties near Beaver Lake, about 15 minutes north, if you want morning kayaking or a shoreline trail run before the festivities. Spend the morning touring studios on the self-guided gallery walk, hiking the Leatherwood Wilderness Trail, or visiting Thorncrown Chapel. Lunch at Mud Street Cafe (founded 2011) or The Sweet n Savory Cafe (established 2013) keeps you fueled before the parade. After the procession, the town’s First Friday gallery openings often coincide with the parade, offering wine, artist talks, and late-hours browsing. If the parade gets too crowded, the Eureka Springs Historical Museum and Quigley’s Castle provide quieter, indoor alternatives with their own artistic flair.