July begins with a bang in Arkansas, and the fun continues for the entire month in The Natural State.

Thrilling fireworks shows will take place at various locations throughout the state on July 4, including at Lake Ouachita, Lake Hamilton, Greers Ferry Lake and Beaver Lake, where the displays create breathtaking reflections on the water. Arkansas.com has an extensive list of fireworks shows and other Independence Day events for everyone to enjoy.

Arkansas families can plan their weekends around other events happening throughout the month.

The famous World Championship Cardboard Boat Races will occur July 20at Greers Ferry Lake’s Sandy Beach in Heber Springs. Boats made entirely of cardboard will race for bragging rights. There will also be a watermelon-eating contest and a volleyball tournament.

In Clarksville, The Johnson County Peach Festival is a three-day event beginning on July 18 with a number of associated activities including a bicycle obstacle course, peach pit spitting contest, fishing derby, horseshoe pitching tournament and, of course, plenty of peaches to enjoy.

A week later, Arkansas celebrates the world’s sweetest watermelons at the 40th Annual Cave City Watermelon FestivalJuly 25-27. One can feast on juicy Cave City watermelons while enjoying music from country music star Mark Chesnutt, country band Shenandoah and Christian group Down East Boys.

Arkansas.com has a complete listing of all events happening throughout the state in July. Check it out. It’s the perfect cure for the summer doldrums.

About Arkansas Tourism 

Arkansas Tourism, a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism, strives to expand the economic impact of travel and tourism in the state and enhance the quality of life for all Arkansans. The division manages 14 Arkansas Welcome Centers and employs more than 60 staff members across The Natural State. For more information, visit www.arkansas.com.