Odie’s Diner in Van Buren is earning a reputation as a go-to spot for a classic, no-fuss breakfast.

 

The diner’s clean, welcoming atmosphere instantly makes guests feel at home, thanks to a friendly staff known for treating everyone like a regular.

 

A recent visit included omelets, hash browns, pancakes, and bacon — each dish arrived hot, flavorful, and generously seasoned.

 

The pancakes and bacon combo stands out as a must-try, delivering that perfect blend of sweet and savory.

 

Breakfast at Odie’s easily earns a thumbs up, with plans already in the works to sample their lunch and dinner soon.

 

If you’re in the Van Buren area and hungry for a satisfying morning meal, Odie’s Diner deserves a spot on your list.

 

This week brings more than just turkey chatter — discover standout concerts, performances, and one-of-a-kind local happenings to check out.

 

Thanksgiving is fast approaching in the River Valley, and locals have a variety of ways to celebrate, from dining out or reserving to-go feasts to joining free community meals.

 

The Living Thanksgiving Guide features a growing list of options including classic buffets at Prima Italia and Village Inn in Fort Smith, plus several spots offering smoked turkeys and holiday sides for pickup, like Rub ’Em Tender BBQ and Art’s BBQ & Grill.

 

Looking for a warm welcome? The Salvation Army, East Side Baptist Church, Gray Rock Community Center, Burger Barn in Muldrow, and The Bonanza Hangout are offering free community dinners open to all.

 

The guide is updated weekly—residents can contribute by sharing meal opportunities on Facebook.

 

Start planning now to ensure your Thanksgiving is delicious and community-filled, whether you’re gathering with friends, neighbors, or family.

Need dinner in a hurry?  

This simple sheet-pan meal offers a mix of protein, fiber, and fresh flavor—with hardly any cleanup. It’s the answer for busy weeknights when you crave something nourishing but don’t want to spend an hour in the kitchen.  

You only need five everyday ingredients: chicken breasts, broccoli (or green beans), bell pepper, olive oil, and lemon.  

Toss everything with seasonings and roast at 425°F for 15–18 minutes until done. Dinner is ready in about 20 minutes, all on a single pan.  

This recipe shines because it’s high in protein, packed with fiber, and full of zesty lemon-garlic flavor.  

Swap in whatever veggies you have—zucchini, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts work too.  

Enjoy as is, or serve with grains or cauliflower rice for a complete meal. Make extras for easy meal prep and healthy local eating all week long.

Veterans Day celebrations are arriving in the River Valley, offering meaningful ways to salute local heroes.  

Fort Smith hosts the Regional Veterans Day Parade at Chaffee Crossing on Saturday, November 8, 2025, with a Veterans Honors Ceremony at 10 AM and parade kickoff at noon.  

This gathering is Arkansas’s largest Veterans Day event, uniting veterans, military groups, families, and the community in recognition of their service.  

Downtown Van Buren will honor veterans with its annual parade on Sunday, November 9 at 2:00 PM, featuring local bands, organizations, and community pride.  

Residents are encouraged to nominate a veteran or veteran-owned business for a special spotlight in a future feature, supporting those who strengthen our neighborhoods.  

The community’s gratitude shines bright—thank you to every veteran and their families for your service and sacrifice.

National Donut Day celebrates a delicious tradition dating back to Dutch settlers who introduced “olie koeken”—early fried treats—in the 17th and 18th centuries.

 

Over the years, these oil cakes evolved into today’s beloved ring-shaped donuts, especially after the early 1900s with the help of new donut-making machinery.

 

Looking to join the festivities?

 

Local River Valley favorites are serving up fresh pastries and friendly smiles.

 

Popular stops include Irish Maid Donuts, The Donut Palace, Sugar Llamas, and Sunny Donuts in Fort Smith, Donut Palace and Paul’s Bakery in Van Buren, and Smith Donuts in Alma.

 

Whether grabbing a treat for yourself or sharing a dozen with coworkers, today offers the perfect excuse to enjoy a sweet bite and support beloved bakeries in our community.

 

Happy National Donut Day! 🍩

The Josselin Inn Bed & Breakfast is opening in downtown Van Buren at 410 Drennen, inviting the community to its grand opening celebration on Sunday, November 9, from 1 to 5 PM.

 

Guests can tour the newly restored inn, enjoy live entertainment, and explore individually themed rooms, each with its own unique story.

 

Local musician Ashtyn Barbaree will provide live music throughout the afternoon, enriching the festive, welcoming atmosphere.

 

The inn blends historic inspiration with modern flair, featuring standout rooms like the Parisian-inspired Poppies Room, the patriotic 1776 Room with Americana touches, and the 1555 France Yellow Room offering a jacuzzi bath and family-friendly layout.

 

Visitors are encouraged to bring a lawn chair and experience this new local hospitality gem—blending history, style, and Southern charm in the heart of Van Buren.

Alma is set for a flavor-packed celebration as The Depot introduces the city’s first-ever Food Truck Festival on Saturday, May 2, 2026.

 

The lively event will take over downtown from 11 AM to 6 PM, featuring a tempting variety of local food trucks serving up smoky BBQ, street-style tacos, desserts, and more.

 

Organizers aim to spark a new annual tradition that highlights local tastes, supports small businesses, and brings neighbors together.

 

The Depot is now seeking food truck vendors of all cuisines—spaces are limited, so early applications are a must.

 

With electricity and water hookups available and simple permit requirements, the event offers a unique opportunity to reach hungry Alma crowds and help launch an exciting culinary legacy.

 

Interested vendors can learn more and apply by contacting The Depot on Facebook.

Discover our brand-new calendar bringing all local happenings together in one place.

 

Check out these upcoming events for a taste of what’s on the horizon.

 

Greenwood Fall Festival — Nov 1: Food trucks, crafts, and family fun.

 

International Food Festival — Nov 8: Experience Fort Smith’s global flavors and vibrant community atmosphere.

 

Mushroom Workshop — Nov 9: Winslow hosts a day of learning, foraging, and exploring local wild mushrooms.

 

Explore even more events, updated daily at Go.RiverValleyFork.com/events—including food celebrations, festivals, and live music you won’t want to miss.

If you’re dreaming of a classic autumn Saturday—crisp air, fiery foliage, and laughter-filled lawns—the Greenwood Fall Festival at Bell Park is your perfect local escape.

 

Set for November 1 in Greenwood, this beloved celebration brings together food trucks, handmade crafts, and nonstop entertainment for all ages.

 

Start your day browsing vendor booths, then dig into fair favorites like barbecue, kettle corn, and seasonal desserts—there’s something for every craving.

 

The festival shines with kid-friendly fun: hayrides, inflatables, face-painting, carnival games, and local live music.

 

With Bell Park’s golden trees and rolling hills as your backdrop, you’ll find stunning scenery alongside the festivities.

 

Admission is free, and families, foodies, and day-trippers will all feel at home. Greenwood Fall Festival offers a relaxed, memorable way to support local artists—and kick off the holiday season in style.

If you’re in Fort Smith and hungry for Mexican at lunchtime, El Olvido offers a welcoming spot with fast service and meals that are anything but heavy.

 

The El Olvido Burrito stands out for being hearty and satisfying, boasting vibrant flavors without leaving you sluggish.

 

It’s the sort of comfort food you’ll want to revisit again and again.

 

The taquitos are also a hit—light, crispy, and easily shareable with chips and salsa for a perfect lunch combo.

 

The dining room feels clean and lively, thanks to a steady lunch crowd that never becomes overwhelming.

 

Service remains attentive without hovering, and the house margaritas are refreshingly balanced, not overly sweet.

 

El Olvido is ideal for lunch with friends, casual dates, or a quick midday bite.

River City Bistro in Fort Smith offers a quietly inviting atmosphere in the morning, with sunlight streaming in and the scent of fresh coffee setting a calm, local mood.

 

While it's often thought of as a lunch spot, breakfast here stands out.

 

The Bistro Breakfast Burrito impresses with fluffy eggs, savory sausage, gooey cheese, and peppers in a warm tortilla, complemented by crispy hashbrowns and a tangy salsa.

 

Service is outstanding—friendly, attentive, and never rushed—within a spotless, well-maintained dining area.

 

Art from local creators lines the walls, available for sale without commission—showcasing the owners’ commitment to supporting the community.

 

Perfect for solo mornings or friendly meetups, River City Bistro delivers genuine hospitality and memorable flavors at the heart of Fort Smith.