Arkalalah!!! It’s finally here!  Click your heels and close your eyes as downtown Ark City transforms to the smells of delicious foods, sounds of laughter, and the sights of friendships renewed.  

“There’s No Place Like Home” may have a couple of different meanings to people. The first thing most people are going to think of is Dorothy and the Wizard of Oz. To me, the theme screams Arkalalah and the home we all share - Ark City!  I’m always amazed at the number of people that pencil in the last weekend of October every year to come and celebrate with family and friends.  As I have grown older, I see how important Arkalalah is to bringing people home to reminisce in the good times and share the old stories while making new memories.  Community, friends, and family are what make Arkalalah exist and without these, it’s just another weekend in October.  

Over the last 44 years, I’ve experienced several facets of Arkalalah. From being the child with no cares other than eating pancakes, riding rides and catching candy in the parade to now being able to enjoy the festivities with my family and seeing it through my 2 children’s eyes.  It has definitely has come full circle and is a time we all look forward to.  

Prior to my commitment to the Arkalalah committee, I had absolutely no idea what it took to put on this amazing event. This being my 4th year, I now know it just doesn’t happen! It takes the ENTIRE community’s support; starting from local business’ donations to the tireless commitment from past and current committee members and the love and support from family and friends. So with that, I thank you!

Enjoy the next few days with friends and family!

"If I ever go looking for my heart's desire again, I won’t look any further than my own backyard. Because if it isn’t there, I never lost it to begin with." – Dorothy