A Spectacle of Creativity: Highlights from the 2025 ArtRageous Parade
The streets of downtown Eureka Springs came alive the first Saturday of May in a swirl of color, music, and creativity during the 2025 ArtRageous Parade, a signature celebration hosted by the Eureka Springs School of the Arts (ESSA). From bold costumes and handcrafted puppets to live performances and tiny works of art tossed into the crowd, this year’s parade was a joyful testament to the town’s artistic soul.
A Community in Motion
Each May, the ArtRageous Parade launches Eureka Springs’ Fine Arts Month, and it does so with flair. This year’s celebration brought together artists, students, performers, local businesses, and art lovers from near and far, all converging on Spring Street to transform downtown into a living, moving gallery.
With music echoing down the historic hills and onlookers lining the sidewalks, the parade was more than a show—it was a moment of shared wonder, where locals and visitors alike were invited to be part of the creative action.
Puppets, Creatures, and Pageantry
One of the most captivating parts of the 2025 ArtRageous Parade was the stunning array of puppets, fantastical creatures, and oversized characters handmade by participants. Towering figures danced through the streets, whimsical animals bounced along with joy, and vibrant floats carried curious creations of all shapes and sizes.
Each entry brought a distinct flavor of creativity—from mythical beings to humorous interpretations of nursery rhymes—all echoing the eccentric, free-spirited charm of Eureka Springs.
Tiny Works of Art, Big Moments of Joy
One of the most cherished ArtRageous traditions continued this year with a delightful twist—over 150 goodie bags were handed out by ESSA staff to lucky paradegoers. Each bag was filled with treats from 2025 ArtRageous Parade sponsors and featured a tiny hand-painted canvas, each one a unique work of art.
These miniature canvases were lovingly created by students from the Clear Spring School, Eureka Springs High School, ESSA staff, and local artists and volunteers. The wide range of styles and colors reflected the deep community involvement ESSA encourages—and made each piece a story in itself. Whether bold, whimsical, or heartfelt, the canvases served as lasting mementos of a day filled with creativity, connection, and joy.
A Celebration of Creativity and Collaboration
With dozens of parade entries, this year’s lineup was more dazzling than ever. Judged by Connie Evans, KJ Zumwalt, and Jim McEvoy, entries were evaluated for creativity, originality, and spirit—though the real reward was the joy each brought to the community. Congratulations to this year’s winners:
🥇 1st Place: SUP Outfitters
🥈 2nd Place: The Butterfly Brigade (Mark Hughes, Steve Beacham & Friends)
🥉 3rd Place: The Humpty Dumpty Float (Stephen Feilbach & Friends)
Parade Sponsors: The Force Behind the Creative Fun
The ArtRageous Parade wouldn’t be possible without the enthusiastic support of our generous local sponsors. Their contributions helped fill over 150 goodie bags with treats, surprises, and tiny canvases—spreading smiles and creativity throughout the crowd.
Each sponsor played a vital role in bringing this beloved community event to life, supporting not just the parade itself, but the artists, students, and volunteers who make it so special. We are deeply grateful for their partnership and continued investment in the arts in Eureka Springs.
A big thank you to our 2025 ArtRageous Parade sponsors!
The Heart of ESSA on Parade
“The ArtRageous Parade is a celebration that truly spotlights the unique, quirky, creative, and welcoming spirit of Eureka Springs,” said ESSA Executive Director Kelly McDonough. “Every year, we’re amazed by the community’s imagination and generosity. From parade entries to tiny works of art, the spirit of collaboration and joy is what makes this event so special.”
This event wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of the Eureka Springs Arts Council and local business sponsors—and, of course, the artists, volunteers, and dreamers who make magic happen year after year.
Join the Celebration
Whether you’re a longtime local or a first-time visitor, the ArtRageous Parade is a perfect reminder of what makes Eureka Springs shine: bold creativity, a deep love for the arts, and a community that welcomes everyone to take part.
We invite you to scroll through the photos, relive the moments, and mark your calendar for next year. The ArtRageous Parade is more than an event—it’s a movement of joy, and you’re always invited.
Media Inquiries
If you’re a member of the media and would like to learn more about the Eureka Springs School of the Arts, our events, or the impact of our arts education initiatives, ESSA is happy to share additional information and images.
Please feel free to reach out:
Chrissie Heavenridge
Email: marketing@essa-art.org
Phone: (479) 253-5384
Website: essa-art.org
Thank you for helping us share the story of how community support is shaping the future of the arts.
