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Ride to Hot Springs for the 6th annual Hot Springs Motorcycle Rally September 8-10. The rally has entertainment, a bike show, a parade through downtown, rides, and plenty of vendors. For more details visit www.thehotspringsrally.com or call 501-321-2835.

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Art and craft vendors from several states display their handmade creations Sept. 9-10 in Mena at the 23rd annual Mountainfest. The free event, located at the CMA Campground at Iron Mountain, has live music and is sponsored by the Ouachita Arts and Crafts Guild of Mena. For more information call 479-234-1715.

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Join amateur “ham” radio operators Sept. 9-10 during Hamfest to swap equipment and information related to this important method of emergency communication. The elevation of Rich Mountain makes Queen Wilhelmina State Park in Mena an ideal location for the event. Contact the park via www.queenwilhelmina.com or 479-394-2863 for more information.

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September 9-11 are the dates of the Outdoor Expo at DeGray Lake Resort State Park in Bismark. The expo is a combination of vendors, activities and programs designed to educate and equip guests interested in outdoor activities. This year is highlighted by, but not limited to, boating, hunting, fishing, and a fishing tournament. The event also includes the Hook, Line and Sinker Derby on Saturday morning. During this free event, Golf Course Pond #7 is stocked with catfish foryou to reel in. There are no age restrictions on the fishing butparticipants age 16 and over must have a fishing license. Remember to bring your ownbait and tackle and only one fishing pole per person is allowed. For more information visit www.degray.com or call 501-865-5810.

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The 20th annual Hot Springs JazzFest is Sept. 13-18. Enjoy a week long celebration of jazz music featuring the traditional free outdoor concert on Saturday and the Air Force Shades of Blue on Friday and Saturday. The Piano-Rama playoff Thursday, Joy of Jazz Tuesday, a special concert at Quapaw Baths and Spa Wednesday, and music at St. Luke’s on Sunday round out the festivities. Admission prices vary from free through $75. For more details check out www.hotspringsjazzfest.org or call 501-767-0211.

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An Intro to Kayaking Course is Sept. 17 in Mountain Pine at Lake Ouachita State Park. The course is designed to introduce basic paddling techniques and safety. Types of kayaks, personal equipment and gear, strokes, maneuvers, and basic rescue techniques are taught. It is perfect for those who might have recently purchased a kayak or are thinking about getting one. The $50 fee includes use of a recreational kayak, paddle and PFD. If you have your own kayak and gear, the charge is $30. The seminar also includes classroom instruction and on-the-water practice with a kayak instructor certified by the American Canoe Association. Space is limited and is open to those 16 years and older. Bring a sack lunch and dress for the weather. Be prepared to get wet. Registration and a deposit are required. For more information visit www.arkansasstateparks.com or call the park at 501-767-9366.

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See Lake Catherine in a whole new way Sept. 17 during a Full Moon Kayak Tour at Lake Catherine State Park in Hot Springs. Join a park interpreter for a peaceful moonlit kayak tour of the lake. A $15 fee includes use of kayak, paddle, and lifejacket. No experience is necessary, but you should be comfortable around water. Pre-registration and payment at the visitor center is required. For more details check out www.arkansasstateparks.com or call 501-844-4176.

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The 1st annual Norman Fall Fest is Sept. 23-24 in Norman at City Park and Square. The festival has a parade, a car show, a truck show, a motorcycle show, a tractor show, a fishing derby, art and crafts, local bands playing throughout the day and more. For more information call 870-828-1524.

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The Legends Balloon Rally is Sept. 23-24 in Hot Springs at the Hot Springs Airport. Each evening, hot air balloons from all over the country are tethered to the ground for the balloon glow. The flickering glow of each balloon creates a beautiful display in the evening light. Balloons are piloted by a veteran balloonist with no less than 300 hours experience. Remember to bring your own chairs and no ice chests or dogs are allowed at this free event. Concerts take place each night rain or shine. Friday night is The Charlie Daniels Band and Saturday night is Three Dog Night. For more information check out www.hotsprings.org or call 501-321-2835.

Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism