90th Queen Alalah

Themed Announced for 2022 Arkalalah Festival

Chris Rains, the 2022 Arkalalah Festival Executive Committee Chairman, speaks about the theme for this year’s event: “Arktoberfest.”

“I picked the theme Arktoberfest because it combines two fun and popular festivals; Arkalalah and Octoberfest.  Both of which celebrate family, friends and community.  I have enjoyed being able to contribute to an annual festival for friends and families to make memories. Prior to being on this committee I had no idea how much hard work goes into putting Arkalalah together and I am grateful to those who volunteered their time prior to me and after me."

As a lifelong resident of Arkansas City, Rains has fond memories of past celebrations.  "My favorite Arkalalah memory consists of watching the parade as a child with all of the colorful floats and building (and winning) the floats for Sacred Heart Catholic School for years. What is better than working on a project, getting to hang out with friends in the evenings and seeing your vision come to fruition for the Arkalalah festival goers to enjoy?"

This years design captured the “Octoberfest feel” that Rains wanted to convey in this year’s logo, which includes a folk art design with traditional Fall colors.  "We wanted this year’s theme to represent the traditional Fall festivals, but there is an emphasis in the use of the color orange. This year marks Cowley College’s 100th anniversary. They have always been a great partner with Arkalalah and we wanted to acknowledge that."