The Fall Festival drew a crowd to the Dumas Memorial Park Saturday, October 23, 2021.
Over 200 people attend the family festival included pumpkin themed children's games, a hay ride around the park, a pumpkin patch, face painting, horseback riding, vendors booths, concession stands, a Fun Run 5k, and live music. The Dumas Police Department, Dumas Volunteer Fire Department and Dumas Emergency Medical Services had their first responder vehicles to give tours to children and festival goers. Dumas Fire Chief David Byrd handed out fire helmets and stickers to children who visited the fire truck. The Dumas EMS and PD gave tours of the inside of the ambulance and police car.
Louis Jackson, JOAT Podcast who sponsored the event, described the event as successful with children having fun and local businesses getting needed exposure. He thanked the community and the sponsors for their support.
“We would like to do something seasonal (winter, spring, summer, and fall), but this is just the start,” He said. “I greatly appreciate everyone and lets come together again and make it happen for the City of Dumas.”
Vendors included Majestic Adolescent and Pediatric Care, Boys and Girls Club of McGehee, Purple Wings Counseling Service, Sincerely Yours Decor, LLC, Southern Starch, Diamonds & Pearls Custom Occasions, Monsters of the South's ATVs, D'International Hair Performance, and food vendors with Shep's 2 Go food truck and tables selling a variety of food from tamales, freeze-dried candy and fresh cooked pork rinds.
Dumas Family Pharmacy handed out candy and gave out 20 flu shots. Delta Memorial Hospital's Sherry Goodman in partnership with the Arkansas Rural Health Partnership Janet Pack assisted seniors citizens in how to sign up for Medicare Part D.
Live music was performed by former American Idol contestant Jacob Flores, upcoming Country Artist Bodey Jackson from Cabot, AR and the live Soul band Platinum Hits from 2 until 6 PM
Louis Jackson, Gabriel Toney and Stedman Madden of the JOAT Podcast introduced each music act and recognized local vendor s and organizations during the event. Jackson, Toney and Madden recorded a new podcast during the event featuring Dumas native Rick Helton.
Dumas High School Senior Makayla Gilbreth also asked for anyone interested in being in the December 6 Christmas Parade to fill out a form to enter. The theme of the parade is Hometown Christmas. They also asked for donations of used Christmas lights.
