4th Annual James Black’s Bowie Heritage Festival Set for April 25-26 in Washington

The City of Washington, Arkansas, in partnership with the University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana Foundation and Historic Washington State Park, is gearing up for the 4th Annual James Black’s Bowie Heritage Festival on April 25-26, 2025. The event will take place from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day, celebrating the life and legacy of James Black, the legendary bladesmith who crafted the first Bowie Knife for Jim Bowie.

Held throughout the historic city of Washington, the festival will feature a variety of activities, including live forging challenges, exhibits, and a knife show.

Festival highlights also include the James Black Arkansas State Cutting Competition Championship, organized by Jerry Fisk, a national treasure and master bladesmith from Nashville. In addition, the Arkansas Arts Council will announce the 2025 “Arkansas Living Treasure” and recognize previous recipients on April 26th.

Re-enactors will bring the story of Jim Bowie’s commission to life, while visitors can experience hands-on learning at the James Black School of Bladesmithing and Historic Trades. Other activities include bowmaking, knapping, tours of historic buildings, surrey rides, and a wide range of food vendors.

The festival is free to attend, though parking will cost $5. For more information, call 870-648-5084.