Van Buren's Old Timer's Day Steampunk Festival

Van Buren’s Old Timer’s Day Steampunk Festival Returns May 10-11, 2025

ByRandy Forrester Hours Updated on

The 47th Annual Old Timer’s Day Steampunk Festival is ready to transport visitors to a world where Victorian elegance meets steam-powered imagination. This unique event will take place Saturday and Sunday, May 10 & 11, 2025, in downtown Van Buren, Arkansas.

Set against the backdrop of six blocks of nationally recognized historic Main Street, this festival offers an immersive experience into the fascinating realm of steampunk – a creative genre that seamlessly blends Victorian aesthetics with steam-powered machinery.

A Vendor’s Paradise

Festival attendees can explore a wide array of vendors and boutiques lining Main Street. The shopping experience includes everything from authentic steampunk gadgets to modern boutique clothing, arts and crafts, home décor, antiques, and much more.

Entertainment Extravaganza

The entertainment lineup promises to be spectacular, with thrilling steampunk performances throughout the weekend. Visitors can marvel at skilled stilt walkers performing acrobatic displays against the festival’s steampunk cityscape backdrop.

Mechanical marvels will roam the streets, showcasing inventive automatons that bring the steampunk world to life. Street performers in elaborate steampunk attire will provide spontaneous entertainment throughout the festival grounds.

Music and Refreshments

Live music will be a key feature of the festival, with local bands performing on stage throughout the weekend. When hunger strikes, numerous food truck vendors and local restaurants will offer a variety of culinary delights, ensuring there’s something to satisfy every appetite.

Dress Your Steampunk Best

One highlight of the festival is the costume contest, where participants can showcase their most creative steampunk attire. Whether you’re competing for titles like “Master Tinkerer” or “Inventor Extraordinaire” or simply enjoying the spectacular display of creativity, the costume contest represents the heart of the steampunk community.

What to Wear

And if you’re in need of GEAR for the big event, check out this set of Steampunk Goggles, Gothic Tophat, Midieval Boot Covers, Vintage Pocket Watch, and MORE! Please note that, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

The Old Timer’s Day Steampunk Festival invites everyone to step into a world where past and future collide in a symphony of steam and gears. Mark your calendars for this can’t-miss event that has become a beloved tradition in the Arkansas River Valley.

For more information about vendor opportunities or festival details, visit oldtownvanburen.com.

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Randy Forrester has been a dedicated member of the news, weather, and community information media in the Arkansas River Valley for over half a century, primarily as the owner and operator of KLYR Radio in Clarksville, Arkansas. Embracing the digital age, Randy now leverages the widespread reach of the internet to keep the area's residents better informed.