30 Sep 2025 Arkansas Goat Festival brings tourism, community to Perry County
By KD Reep
Each fall, the quiet town of Perryville transforms into a lively hub of bleating, laughter and community spirit as thousands gather for the Arkansas Goat Festival. Set against the backdrop of Perryville City Park, this one-of-a-kind celebration highlights everything that’s charming, funny and surprisingly educational about goats.
Beginning under the vision of Sarah French, the festival was designed to celebrate Perry County and its agricultural roots. Today, it has grown into a beloved annual tradition, owned by the city of Perryville and coordinated by longtime volunteer Dave Ludlow. “The goal has always been simple,” he explained. “Just to provide a good time for families and celebrate goats.”
This festival is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 4, and visitors can expect a full day of goat-themed entertainment — all for free. The event schedule is as delightfully quirky as its name suggests, with an Au Naturale Goat Parade, a Goat Costume Contest, a Goat Costume Parade, and even the lighthearted “Goat Lingerie Show,” affectionately known as Nannies at Night. Festivalgoers also will enjoy live music from bands like The Boomers and The Rusty Roosters, as well as educational sessions hosted by the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service.
This year promises to be the biggest yet, with more than 140 vendors and a record-setting 24 food vendors. “Everyone should come with a big appetite,” Ludlow said. Families will also find plenty of kid-friendly activities, from inflatables that benefit local school groups to face-painting booths and a dedicated Kid Zone where little ones can unwind.
For many, the Arkansas Goat Festival is about more than costumes and contests: it’s about community. Perryville resident and goat owner Fin Judkins has been involved since the festival’s early years. Her herd of 11 goats — each with colorful names like Danny DeVito, Temple Grandin and Little Dolly Parton — often finds its way into the petting zoo.
Judkins’ affection for goats began with one special animal named Plushenko. “She was my very best pal,” she recalled. “She had health problems, but she had so much gumption in her. She inspired me to keep going no matter what.”
Barbara Bell McMahan, a longtime vendor, raved about her experience. “It just keeps getting better and better, and it’s so much fun. Thanks to Dave Ludlow and all the volunteers who work so hard to make this happen,” she said.
“We had a blast,” said Benji and Stefanie Crawford, who drove in from Jonesboro. “We plan to come back every year!”
While the Arkansas Goat Festival leans into humor and playfulness, it also helps dispel myths about goats. “People don’t realize how smart goats are,” Ludlow noted. “They can be very mischievous too!”
Judkins added that goats make wonderful pets but require proper care and understanding. “Contrary to popular opinion, they don’t just eat anything and can’t take care of themselves,” she said. “You need to be prepared if you plan to have one.”
With its mix of parades, music, food and laughter, the Arkansas Goat Festival has become a signature event for Central Arkansas. It’s a place where visitors can enjoy simple pleasures, meet a goat or two, and discover the joy of small-town togetherness. “The festival is a day of quirky fun with goats as the centerpiece,” Ludlow said. “I hope people will come join us for a fun day in Perryville.”
For more information, visit arkansasgoatfestival.com.
