The prominence of the apple industry in Northwest Arkansas became a point of celebration for many local residents. The significance afforded to the apple industry is perhaps best seen in the creation of the Apple Blossom Festival, which originated in Rogers in 1923. Having seen festivals in other parts of the country that celebrated the importance of an agricultural item to a local community, local community leaders felt that such a festival was a great way to honor the success of Benton County and Northwest Arkansas as one of the nation’s leading areas for apple production. Rogers held the Apple Blossom Festival every year from 1923 to 1927, with it growing each year. 

The last Apple Blossom Festival was held in 1927. By that time, the apple industry in Northwest Arkansas had been nearly destroyed by disease, insect infestation, and rainy weather. In light of the crippled apple industry, the celebration of Northwest Arkansas’ prominence as an apple producing region no longer seemed appropriate, and the organizers decided to end the festival. Learn more about the festival, the parade, and the crowning of the Apple Blossom Queen with this exhibit.