With its diverse soulful sounds, riverfront views, and community feel, the Peacemaker Festival is described as one of the best music festivals of its size. In 2024, this one-of-a-kind live music event is celebrating its 10th year of bringing thousands of music lovers together in downtown Fort Smith, Arkansas. Here are 5 big reasons to save your spot at this year’s Peacemaker Festival!

1. Get ready to grow your Spotify! 

Discover artists you didn’t know you needed to hear. The Peacemaker Festival’s 2024 live music lineup promises an eclectic kaleidoscope of sound. This year features the soulful Appalachian style of 49 Winchester and the uniquely modern Americana vibes of Morgan Wade. Other artists include Stephen Wilson Jr., the self-proclaimed “Death Cab for Country,”  and The Castellows, with their delicately powerful harmonies. Get ready to grow your Spotify! 

Four images show people of all ages enjoyed themselves at the Peacemaker Festival in Fort Smith, Arkansas.

2. Peacemaker proceeds go to charity. 

Listening to live music at a festival just feels good, doesn’t it? But wouldn’t it feel even better if you knew all the proceeds were going to charity? Peacemaker Music Festival is a 501(c)(3) dedicated to donating all proceeds to their artists’ charities and giving back to the community through local charities. So, Peacemaker feels extra good.

3. It's family friendly! 

A school-aged girl lays on a blanket in front of her parents, eating chili cheese fries at the Peacemaker Music Fest in Fort Smith.

Who will your kids experience their first music festival with? How about you? Long-time Fort Smith resident Laura Smith has been to the Peacemaker Festival several times. “It feels like a big community, and it’s very chill and relaxed,” she said. “It’s really safe!” The first time she went, she took her 13 year old with her. “It was his first music festival, and he loved it. I would have no fear taking all three of my kids to Peacemaker, even at night, well after dark.” 

4. Make it your next mini-vacation. 

Photo collage of places to eat and things to see in downtown Fort Smith.

Since the Peacemaker Festival is in Riverfront Park, you’re within a mile or so of some of downtown Fort Smith’s best-loved attractions. And with festival gates opening at 12:30 pm and live music starting at 1 pm, you can spend your mornings exploring. Take a stroll on the Greg Smith River Trail, explore some historical sites, grab a bite to eat at a downtown restaurant, and more. Peacemaker can be your next mini-vacay; make the most of your weekend in Fort Smith by planning for adventure!

5. Cool new dates mean you’ll beat the heat. 

The Peacemaker Music Festival has moved from summer to fall! This year, you can enjoy two days of live music on Friday, October 11 and Saturday, October 12. Plus, Peacemaker Festival offers three camping and RV packages at the brand-new Riverfront RV Resort. Sure, October in Arkansas can be warm, but it won’t be hot, which means more comfortable camping and concerts. 

Whether you're drawn by the live music lineup, family-friendly vibes, or chance to support great causes, don't miss the Peacemaker Festival this October. This unique event promises you an unforgettable weekend in downtown Fort Smith!