Arcadia Festival Raises $735,000 for Local Schools and Charities

The festival, held August 6-8, balanced high-energy entertainment with philanthropic outreach. Festivities opened with the Pursuit of a Cure Glow Run, an initiative dedicated to advancing medical research, followed by the unveiling of the On Angels Wings monument at Soldiers Walk to honor active military members. Throughout the weekend, Memorial Park hosted a diverse array of attractions, ranging from axe throwing and mini-golf to the debut of a drone light show that illuminated the night sky.

Main Stage programming featured a broad spectrum of artists, including Keith Urban, the Gene Simmons Band, and Jon Pardi. Event Director Cole Bawek credited the festival's longevity and impact to the collective efforts of volunteers, corporate sponsors, and the host sponsor, Ashley Furniture Industries. Since its inception in 2009, the nonprofit initiative has distributed over $5 million to support children's charities and educational programs. Organizers have already confirmed the next installment of the event, scheduled for August 12-14, 2027.