Heavy Rain and Humidity Ahead: Weekend Weather Expectations

Mudtown Days Returns to Lowell, Arkansas — This Weekend Only!

Mudtown Days Returns to Lowell, Arkansas — This Weekend Only!June 5–6, 2026 | Kathleen Johnson Memorial Park, Lowell, ARNorthwest Arkansas has no shortage of summer festivals, but few carry the hometown soul and deep historical roots of Mudtown Days in Lowell. Now in its 48th year, this beloved community celebration returns for two action-packed days on June 5th and 6th, 2026, and the lineup — both on stage and off — is shaping up to be one for the memory books.A Name With a StoryBefore you can fully appreciate Mudtown Days, you have to appreciate the name itself. Long before Lowell was Lowell, it was called Bloomington — a small settlement along the Old Wire Road in Northwest Arkansas. Local legend holds that a new driver for the Overland Butterfield Stagecoach came out of Alex Nail's Tavern and Dram Shop one afternoon only to discover his stage had sunk into the mud clear up to the coach bed. Right then and there, he supposedly declared the place "Mudtown," and the name stuck.During the Civil War, the muddy crossroads became an Army camp used by both Union and Confederate forces. In November of 1861, a Confederate Army of more than 10,000 soldiers under General Ben McCullough moved into winter quarters just north of Cross Hollows near the settlement. Through war, wagon ruts, and the march of time, the nickname "Mudtown" evolved from a colorful insult into a cherished badge of community pride — and for nearly five decades, the City of Lowell has honored that heritage with a festival worthy of the legend.What to ExpectMudtown Days is a free-admission, family-friendly event packed from morning to night with activities for all ages. The festival features:Free live concerts headlining both eveningsCarnival rides and inflatables for the kidsAn ATV and side-by-side mud runA truck and tractor pullA fishing derbyA car showHelicopter ridesA paradeFood and craft vendorsA beer gardenFireworksPageants, a talent show, a magic show, BINGO, and moreWhether you're a longtime Lowell resident or making the drive in from Fayetteville, Bentonville, or Rogers, there's genuinely something here for everyone.Entertainment HighlightsFriday, June 5Tonight's festivities kick off the weekend at Kathleen Johnson Memorial Park in Lowell. The evening's entertainment schedule has been posted to the official Mudtown Days Facebook page, so check there for updated set times and opening act details. The park buzzes with carnival rides, vendors, and the kind of easy summer atmosphere that only a hometown festival can deliver. Get there early to grab your spot and explore the grounds before the music starts.Saturday, June 6 — Larry Fleet HeadlinesSaturday night is the marquee moment of the weekend. Country music's Larry Fleet takes the stage at Kathleen Johnson Memorial Park for what promises to be a memorable free concert.Fleet is a Tennessee-born singer-songwriter who has built a reputation as one of country music's most authentic and compelling voices. Praised by critics as "one of the genre's powerhouse male vocalists," he grew up steeped in the sounds of Merle Haggard, Willie Nelson, Otis Redding, and Marvin Gaye — and that deep musical DNA comes through in every performance. A road-tested live show veteran who has opened for the likes of Darius Rucker and Willie Nelson, Fleet brings a blue-collar sincerity to his music that resonates especially well with crowds at outdoor summer festivals.Opening for Fleet on Saturday night is Copper Flats, who will be supporting the headliner at this free Mudtown Days show. It's a strong supporting slot and a great opportunity to discover a new act before Larry Fleet closes out the weekend.Both acts perform at Kathleen Johnson Memorial Park, 307 Bellview St, Lowell, AR — and admission is completely free.Getting ThereThe festival is centered at Kathleen Johnson Memorial Park, located at 307 Bellview St in Lowell, AR. For more information on the full schedule, vendor hours, and event details, visit the City of Lowell's official website at lowellarkansas.gov or follow the Mudtown Days Facebook page at facebook.com/mudtowndaysinlowellarkansas.For questions, the City of Lowell can be reached at 479-770-2185.Mudtown Days is produced by the City of Lowell, Arkansas. All concerts are free.