Bowie Heritage Festival Returns to Washington with Bladesmithing, History, and Family Activities

The City of Washington is preparing to host a celebration of history and craftsmanship later this month.

In partnership with Buck’s Maintenance Service Inc., the University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana Foundation, Arkansas’s Great Southwest, and Historic Washington State Park, the city will hold the 5th Annual James Black’s Bowie Heritage Festival on April 24–25 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The festival honors legendary bladesmith James Black, who forged the first Bowie Knife for Jim Bowie in Washington. Organizers say the two-day event will showcase Arkansas heritage through live demonstrations, skilled craftsmanship, and living history experiences.

Activities will be held across several historic locations, including the James Black School of Bladesmithing and Historic Trades, the 1874 Courthouse courtyard, and other landmarks throughout the city.

This year’s festival will feature special guests including Bill Worthen, a leading authority on James Black, and JW Wiseman. They will be joined by bladesmiths from around the country displaying their work and sharing their techniques.

Highlights include live forging challenges, a knife show, demonstrations, exhibits, and the James Black Arkansas State Cutting Competition Championship, organized by Jerry Fisk, a recognized National and Arkansas Living Treasure.

Visitors can also enjoy historic tours, surrey rides, food vendors, and hands-on activities for all ages. A special exhibit of authentic James Black knives and antique Bowie knives will also be on display.

Admission to the festival is free, with parking available for $5. For more information, visitors can go online or call the number provided by organizers.