Step back in time and experience one of Arkansas’s longest-running community celebrations — the 131st Old Soldiers Reunion, held July 15–19, 2025, at Mammoth Spring State Park. Hosted by Mammoth Spring VFW Post 7831, this beloved event honors local veterans while bringing families, friends, and visitors together for five evenings of festive fun in one of the state’s most scenic parks.
With no gate fee and nightly openings at 6 p.m., this event is perfect for anyone looking for a fun, affordable summer outing. Whether you’re a local resident or a road-tripper exploring the Ozarks, the Old Soldiers Reunion is packed with classic fairground excitement and hometown spirit.
Family Fun for Everyone
Bring the whole family and enjoy carnival rides, games, and a nostalgic fair atmosphere under the summer sky. There’s something for all ages, from kid-friendly attractions to thrilling rides that bring out your inner child. The fairgrounds are filled with the sounds of laughter, music, and the sizzle of great food cooking.
Food, Vendors, and More
Feast on delicious eats from a wide range of local food vendors, offering everything from traditional fair favorites to home-style cooking. Explore vendor booths featuring crafts, local goods, and unique items you won’t find anywhere else.
Live Music & Bingo
Each night, the stage comes alive with live music performances from local and regional artists, giving the park a festival vibe that lasts well into the evening. If you’re feeling lucky, don’t miss the bingo games, a long-standing reunion favorite and a great way to connect with the community.
Silent Auction & Veteran Recognition
A highlight of the reunion is the silent auction, featuring generous donations from area businesses and individuals. Proceeds often go toward community support and veteran services. Throughout the week, there are tributes to veterans and a strong sense of pride in the area’s military heritage, reminding all who attend of the event’s deeper purpose.
So mark your calendar, grab your lawn chairs, and join in a cherished Mammoth Spring tradition that combines patriotism, celebration, and old-fashioned fun. Whether you’re riding the Ferris wheel, dancing to live music, or enjoying a funnel cake under the stars, the Old Soldiers Reunion promises memories that last a lifetime.
Location: Mammoth Spring State Park, Mammoth Spring, AR
Dates: July 15–19, 2025
Time: Open nightly at 6:00 p.m.
Admission: FREE
Come for the tradition, stay for the fun!
Karin Huffman is an Independence County native who graduated from Cushman High School in 1996. Traveling throughout the state is one of her passions, along with writing about her adventures.
Taking over as travel writer for the Ozark Gateway Region is a dream come true for Huffman who lives in the region with her two daughters, Grace and Stella.
As a family, they enjoy canoeing the Poke Bayou, Salado Creek and the many waterways along the White River in Independence County. Camping and hiking throughout the region is a must for them in the spring and fall as well.
Huffman is an avid nature photographer who will do just about anything to find the perfect waterfall shot, and has visited many in the great state. From Twin Falls and the Richland Creek area in Northwest Arkansas to little known places off the beaten path, waterfalls will be found.
Huffman has been a travel writer for the Eye on Independence Magazine as well as a staff writer for the Batesville Guard, and is looking forward to devoting her time to traveling throughout the eight county region that the Ozark Gateway offers.
If you would like to contact Huffman about an adventure or would like to know how to get more information out about your area, contact her at 870-307-5473, karinhuffman78@gmail.com or karinozarkgateway@sbcglobal.net.