Thank you to everyone who attended the Arkansas Fair Managers Early Bird Reception and events on Thursday evening Your presence, participation, and enthusiasm helped make this gathering a tremendous success. It was a pleasure to reconnect with longtime friends and welcome new faces as we shared ideas, experiences, and conversations that strengthen fairs across Arkansas. Events like these remind us how valuable collaboration and community are in supporting agriculture, youth p

The Arkansas Fair Managers Association (AFMA) gathered once again in Hot Springs from December 11–13, 2025, for its annual convention. This year’s theme, “Country Christmas at the AFMA,” set a festive tone at the Hot Springs Convention Center as fair managers, associate members, and industry partners from across the Natural State met to celebrate the 2025 season and prepare for the year ahead. Equipping Our Leaders: Licenses, Certifications, and Verifiers The 2025 Convention

One of the most exciting highlights of this year’s AFMA Convention was our annual Scholarship Auction — and once again, our fair family showed up in a big way. Through generous bidding, donated items, and lots of good-natured competition, we were able to raise funds that will directly support students pursuing their education and future careers in agriculture, fair management, and related fields. The scholarship program is one of the most meaningful things we do together as a

The AFMA Board would like to welcome our two new AFMA Board members, Hazelle Whited from Sharp County and Tracy Henderson from Lonoke County. Hazelle will fulfill a vacated three-year term and Tracy will fulfill a vacated one-year term. Scharidi Barber and Karen Baker were both re-elected to five-year terms. Mrs. Pam Lloyd was appointed as Director Emeritus, a well-deserved honor. Congratulations to these ladies!

We couldn’t be prouder of our AFMA Junior Ambassadors who joined us at this year’s convention. These outstanding young leaders from across Arkansas spent several days right alongside us — learning, lending a hand, asking great questions, and soaking in what it truly means to be part of the fair family. Throughout the week, they participated in leadership sessions, helped with convention activities, and visited with fair managers and board members from every corner of the stat

We also honored a few deserving people for their dedication and service to the Fair Industry at our annual Awards Banquet. Those honored were: Hall of Fame: Becky Featherston Associate Hall of Fame: Kim Maple Charles Smith Memorial: Alan Quattlebaum Work Horse Award: Michael Michael Mary Louise Fiser Family Award Carson & Rhonda McGee Lloyd Dunaway Award: Keith Pullen Visitation Award: Steve Jernigan Travel Trophy: White County Associates Remembrance Award: Pam Casper

The Early Bird Reception will set the stage for our convention on Thursday night at 6:00 p.m. We will be serving some delicious finger foods and playing lots of fun Christmas reindeer games. Bingo will be played at $5.00 per card, along with other games that we know everyone will enjoy! We will have several vendors set up in our Tradeshow area this year. This will be a perfect time to get some last minute Christmas gifts as well as gather information and ideas for next year’s

It’s Almost Conference Time – Get Ready for a Country Christmas at the AFMA! The countdown is on — our annual AFMA Conference is just around the corner this December, and we couldn’t be more excited to be back together for another fantastic year! This year’s theme, “Country Christmas,” promises to bring a warm, festive spirit to our time together. Get ready for great networking, valuable learning opportunities, and a little holiday cheer, AFMA-style. One of the highlights of

AFMA is thrilled to share that our Junior Ambassador Program continues to grow and shine! This year, we are proud to have 14 incredible Junior Ambassadors joining us at the conference. These young leaders will be on hand throughout the event to assist, help, and represent the future of the fair industry with enthusiasm and pride. The Junior Ambassador Program is an amazing opportunity to engage and inspire the next generation — giving them hands-on experience, industry insigh

2026 AFMA Convention Dates: December 11-13, 2025 Hot Springs Convention Center AFMA Convention Promises Excitement, Education, and Entertainment The Arkansas Fair Managers Association is gearing up for its annual convention, and this year's event is shaping up to be one of the most exciting and informative gatherings for fair managers and board members across the state. With a packed agenda featuring professional development opportunities, high-caliber entertainment, and esse