The Dardanelle Area Chamber of Commerce is set to host the 77th Annual Mt. Nebo Chicken Fry on Saturday, Aug. 17, at Mount Nebo State Park. This year’s event, themed “Chicken, Pickin, and Politickin,” will celebrate the poultry industry in the Arkansas River Valley.
Mount Nebo State Park, located at 16728 West State Highway 155, has been the traditional venue for the Chicken Fry since 1948. Tyson’s award-winning cooks, along with Chamber volunteers, will prepare chicken strips, smoked chicken and a variety of sides.
Historically, the Chicken Fry was a major political gathering, drawing politicians from across the state to engage with voters in Yell County. After a stint at Veterans Riverfront Park, the event returned to its original location in 2017, drawing significant crowds and high chicken dinner sales.
Noah Carter
The Chicken Fry has been recognized by the Arkansas Food Hall of Fame for its food-themed event, earning finalist spots in 2022 and 2024.
The event will also highlight Mount Nebo’s 25 miles of Monument Bike trails, home to the Big Mountain Enduro Race, underscoring the community’s vibrant spirit.
The Chicken Fry offers a family-friendly atmosphere with various competitions and activities, including cornhole and horseshoe tournaments, log-sawing contests and a Chicken Beauty Pageant. Children can enjoy the Little Miss Pullet and Little Mister Rooster contests, egg toss games and a chicken scramble.
Chicken dinners will be served from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. for $12. They feature grilled chicken or chicken strips, cumin rice, baked beans, potato salad, coleslaw, bread, a pickle, a cookie and bottled water. Payments can be made by cash, check or credit card.
Entertainment begins at 11 a.m. on the main stage, featuring Arkansas Grand Champion Banjoist Noah Carter and Yell County’s Hill Street Blues. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and enjoy the day.
For more information and an up-to-date schedule of events, follow the Mt. Nebo Chicken Fry Facebook page.
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