Country Christmas at the AFMA!

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 essential

breakout sessions, the convention is a must-attend for those dedicated to putting on the

best county fair possible.

Professional Development at Your Fingertips

AFMA is committed to providing its members with the tools they need to succeed. This

year's Christmas themed convention will feature crucial certification opportunities:

• EIA Certification: Members will have the chance to receive their Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA) certification, a vital credential for ensuring the health and safety of livestock exhibitions.

• NPIP Testers License: The association is also working to finalize arrangements for members to potentially receive their National Poultry Improvement Plan (NPIP) testers license. This addition would be a significant benefit, streamlining a key aspect of fair operations.

  
  

Festive Fun and Holiday Traditions

Adding a splash of holiday spirit to the professional development, the convention will be

packed with festive activities designed to encourage networking and fun:

• Reindeer Games: Get ready to unwind and compete in some lively "reindeer games" throughout the evening.

• Ornament Swap: Attendees are encouraged to bring a couple of ornaments to swap with fellow members. We will have a tree with ornaments to be auctioned off at convention. Bring some of your favorite.

• Ugly Sweater Contest: What is a Christmas convention without one? Dust off your tackiest holiday attire and compete for bragging rights, and likely some pretty sweet prizes, in the official Ugly Sweater Contest!

Entertainment Lineup to Remember

• This year, attendees will be treated to a spectacular showcase of musical talent and local artistry. The entertainment lineup is set to delight:

• Arkansas’ own Copper Flats and Steve Boyster with Boysterus Music will bring their unique sounds to the stage, promising an evening of great tunes and setting the dance floor for a night to remember.

• They will be joined by the talented Brody McKinney and local sensation Ms. Caroline Whiley, ensuring a diverse and lively musical experience for everyone.

Essential Strategies in Breakout Sessions

The heart of the convention's educational component lies in its practical and timely

breakout sessions. These workshops are designed to equip fair leaders with actionable

strategies for the coming season:

• County Fair Award Ideas: Get fresh inspiration for new and unique awards to recognize participants and exhibitors.

• Fair Security Best Practices: Learn how to assess and implement measures to ensure your fair is a safe and secure environment for all visitors.

• Social Media and Online Promotion: Stay ahead of the curve with tips on effective social media posting and leveraging online platforms to promote your fair.

• Food Service Discussions: Critical conversations about concessions, vendor management, and food safety standards.

• Fairboard Expectations: A clear outline of the roles, responsibilities, and best practices for a high-functioning fairboard.

• 250 years!! County fairs, as quintessential American institutions, are the perfect place to celebrate the nation's 250th anniversary, known as the Semiquincentennial or America 250 in 2026 we will discuss how to celebrate and incorporate this into your local county fair.

• Round Table Discussion: In addition to our roundtable style seminar with the Department of Ag, we are also adding an open discussion time. This will be a time for you to ask questions, share ideas and get those creative juices flowing among other fairboard members

Additionally, attendees will hear from Mr. Jeff Cole, special guest speaker from Fairs.com

who will share valuable, data-driven strategies aimed at helping attendees cultivate the

very best fair season possible.

The AFMA is thrilled about the robust agenda for this year's convention. It represents a

significant investment in the education and success of Arkansas's fair managers and board

members. Don't miss this chance to network, learn, and be entertained!

See you all soon!!! Safe Travels

Scharidi Barber, Lonoke County Fair and AFMA Board Member