Victory is Sweet! Arkansas Pie Festival Inducted into Arkansas Food Hall of Fame

CHEROKEE VILLAGE, Ark. — The Arkansas Pie Festival has been officially inducted into the Arkansas Food Hall of Fame, a program of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. The honor recognizes the festival’s unique role in celebrating Arkansas’s culinary culture, supporting small businesses, and creating community connections across the state.

“This recognition is a sweet victory for our community,” said Jonathan Rhodes, festival co-founder and Cherokee Village Community Developer. “The Arkansas Pie Festival began as a way to bring people together, celebrate creativity, and spotlight Cherokee Village and our region. Today, it’s grown into a statewide event that draws visitors, showcases Arkansas talent, and generates real economic impact. We’re thrilled to see that work recognized.”

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Since its debut, the Arkansas Pie Festival has become a destination event, featuring pie contests, local bakers and entrepreneurs, family-friendly activities, and live entertainment. The festival is also an official qualifying event for the World Food Championships, awarding a coveted “Golden Ticket” each year to its champion baker to compete on the world stage.

Beyond the kitchen, the festival fuels STEAM education and entrepreneurship by supporting the Spring River Innovation Hub. The Cherokee Village non-profit provides technology access, training, and resources for students and local startups.

The Arkansas Food Hall of Fame highlights events, restaurants, and food traditions that make Arkansas’s culinary scene special. Being included among these celebrated honorees cements the Arkansas Pie Festival’s role as a signature cultural and economic driver for Cherokee Village and Northeast Arkansas.

“We’re grateful to every volunteer, sponsor, and pie lover across Arkansas who has made the festival what it is”, added Rhodes. “This recognition belongs to the entire community. We can’t wait to welcome everyone back to Cherokee Village on April 25, 2026.”

For more information about the Arkansas Pie Festival, visit ARPieFestival.com or follow along on social media. More information on the Arkansas Food Hall of Fame can be found at ArkFoodHOF.com.