News & Press Releases

EVENT • Oct 31, 2026

EVENT • Oct 29, 2026

The Marine Corps Toys for Tots campaign is returning to Jackson County for 2026! Last year, the generosity of local businesses, organizations, and community members helped provide toys and smiles to more than 230 children in Jackson County. Local businesses and organizations are invited to participate again this year by serving as a toy collection site, sponsoring a fundraising event, or making a donation. Collection boxes are scheduled to be delivered on Thursday, October 29, and picked up on Monday, December 7. To participate or learn more, call (870) 686-7216 and help make Christmas brighter for children in our community.

EVENT • Oct 26, 2026

Unity Health – Newport invites the community to be part of the conversation about the future of healthcare in Newport on Monday, October 26, at noon in Conference Room 1 at Unity Health Newport Hospital, 1205 McLain Street. Attendees will hear from Unity Health leaders and providers about current services, future plans, and ways the community can help support quality healthcare close to home. Lunch will be provided to the first 30 attendees. For more information, call 501-278-3191 or email [email protected].

EVENT • Oct 21, 2026

Experience America’s history, freedom, and future with the Freedom Truck America 250, hosted by the Jackson County Library. The exhibit will be parked at 117 Hazel Street across from M&P Bank in downtown Newport. The traveling exhibit will be open October 21 from 1:00–6:00 p.m. and October 22–24 from 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. Bring the family and take advantage of this special opportunity to explore an interactive celebration of America’s history and its 250th anniversary.

EVENT • Oct 18, 2026

EVENT • Oct 17, 2026

The Jackson County Community Theatre proudly presents On Golden Pond, a classic play by Ernest Thompson, October 17–25 at the ASUN Center for the Arts. Performances will be held on Saturdays at 7:00 p.m. and Sundays at 2:00 p.m. Directed by Jake Eddington, the production features a talented local cast. Tickets are $10 and may be purchased online or at the door.

EVENT • Oct 15, 2026

Celebrate fall with ASU-Newport’s Fall Festival on Thursday, October 15, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at 7648 Victory Boulevard in Newport. This free family event will feature bounce houses, food, pumpkin painting, snow cones, hayrides, carnival games, cotton candy, a cake walk, live music, cash prizes, and more. Bring the whole family and enjoy an evening of fall fun at ASU-Newport!

EVENT • Oct 15, 2026

First Baptist Church Newport will host a Blood Drive on Thursday, October 15, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at 217 Main Street in Newport. Donors can schedule an appointment by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visiting RedCrossBlood.org.

EVENT • Oct 11, 2026

Join St. Paul’s Episcopal Church for The Blessing of the Animals on Sunday, October 11, at 3:00 p.m. on the front lawn of the church at 301 Hazel Street in Newport. All pets are welcome to receive a special blessing commemorating the life and ministry of St. Francis. Attendees are also encouraged to support the local animal shelter by bringing donations such as dry dog food, germicidal bleach, Dawn dish detergent, laundry detergent, brooms, or straw bales. Bring your pets and join in this special community event.

EVENT • Oct 10, 2026

Join the Newport Walking Club, hosted by Tessa Mann, on Saturday, October 10, from 6:00–7:00 p.m. at Mary Alice Holden Conner Memorial Park, 2713 Stegall Road in Newport. All fitness levels are welcome, so bring a friend and enjoy an evening of walking, movement, and community. The Walking Club will meet monthly, and newcomers are encouraged to join!

EVENT • Sep 19, 2026

Kids Fest Newport brings a full afternoon of free, family‑friendly fun to Downtown Newport, filling the streets with hands‑on activities, lively games, and exciting attractions for kids of all ages. From giant Jenga and backyard battle games to bounce houses, slides, a rock wall, and the always‑popular petting zoo, the event offers a safe, energetic space for children to explore, play, and create. Families can enjoy arts and crafts, face painting, obstacle courses, and unique experiences like the Kids Fireman Rodeo and Spider Jump, all presented as part of the Monster Series. Held on Saturday, September 19 from noon to 6 p.m., Kids Fest celebrates community, imagination, and outdoor fun in the heart of Newport.

EVENT • Jun 6, 2026

17th Annual Delta Arts Festival in Downtown Newport — Day 2. Stroll through incredible artwork, enjoy live music, grab delicious food, and experience the energy of the arts. Something for everyone!…