The Benton County Fairgrounds came alive Friday, Aug. 14, and Saturday, Aug. 15, as SOAR NWA returned for its seventh annual celebration. The two‑night festival drew families, friends and visitors from across Northwest Arkansas for a colorful mix of entertainment, adventure and community connection.
Festival highlights
Signature attractions included the nightly balloon glows and tethered hot‑air balloon rides, weather permitting. Attendees also enjoyed helicopter rides, live music performances, a dedicated Kids Zone, a car exhibit, a variety of food‑truck options and a beer garden for adults. Saturday’s program added live wrestling, adding a touch of sport to the festivities.
Supporting a meaningful cause
Beyond the high‑flying attractions, SOAR NWA served a charitable purpose. The event is hosted by Open Avenues, a Northwest Arkansas nonprofit that creates employment and training opportunities for adults with disabilities. Proceeds from the festival support programs that help participants develop job skills, gain greater independence and find meaningful work. Open Avenues has served the region for more than 50 years through vocational training, community employment, high‑school transition and transportation services.
Community response
Local residents praised the festival for its family‑friendly atmosphere and its focus on giving back. Parents highlighted the safe, supervised environment for children, while longtime volunteers noted the importance of supporting a nonprofit that directly benefits neighbors with disabilities. The event also provided a boost to local vendors, with food‑truck operators and the beer garden reporting strong sales.
Looking ahead
Organizers indicated that future SOAR NWA festivals will continue to blend entertainment with purpose, aiming to expand both the range of attractions and the impact of Open Avenues’ programs. The success of this year’s event suggests strong community backing for the next celebration.
Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.
