Visiting Mississippi River Delta

Arkansas' Eastern border follows the path of the Mississippi River, from Eudora in the south to Gosnell and Blytheville in the north. Communities and towns of the Mississippi delta developed along the many rivers and fertile agricultural land of the region. Agriculture dominates the delta economy with cotton, rice and soybeans leading the cash crops of today's farmers. Crowley's Ridge defines the geography of the northern delta towns of Piggott, Paragould and Jonesboro. Also famous for the Blues, the music of the Arkansas delta region runs deep into it's culture and heritage. Johnny Cash, James Cotton, Carlie Rich and Al Green are just a few of the artists from the Arkansas Delta.

The Arkansas Blues and Heritage Festival, one of the US' premier music festivals is held in Helena, one of the Arkansas delta port towns on the Mississippi River. This year, 2010, is the 25th Anniversary of the festival which was formerly called the King Biscuit Blues Festival. Held October 7th through the 9th, this is mecca for blues enthusiasts, drawing fans from across the country. The 2010 lineup includes BB King, Taj Mahal, Marsha Ball, Gwen White and Kentucky Headhunters to name a few. The three day festival has a packed schedule, with three stages of entertainment and a variety of associated activities.

The Best Western Inn in West Helena is ideal for visitors to the blues and heritage festival. Conveniently located minutes from Helena, with comfortable accommodations and the best of southern hospitality. Make sure your stay includes a visit to the Cherry Street historic district and the Civil War Museum.

Stuttgart, southeast of Little Rock, hosts the World's Championship Duck Calling Contest in November at the Wings Over the Prairie Festival. The festival is held Thanksgiving week, November 10th through 28th, 2010. This year is the 75th Anniversary of the duck calling contest. Festival week includes the 31st Annual 10K Duck Race, an Arts and Crafts Fair, exhibits and Midway with carnival rides and games. The festival culminates with the men's and women's duck calling contest and the duck gumbo cook-off. A wonderful event filled week full of fun for the family.

The Best Western Duck Inn is located in the heart of Stuttgart. The area is called the duck and rice capital of the world, and you will see why. Stuttgart is surrounded by world-class wetlands for duck and water fowl hunting which is also ideal for rice growing. Relax in the clean and comfortable accommodations at the Best Western, and enjoy the Wings Over the Prairie Festival.

West Memphis is delightful during the holidays. The 2010 Christmas Parade is the 58th Annual parade and is held December 7th. Always fun and entertaining, bring the family out for an eventful kick-off to the holiday season. Friday December 10th is the Annual Christmas with Your Neighbors holiday party at Southland Park Gaming and Racing. The evening party will feature Dr Zar and the Funk Monsters.

Enjoy West Memphis this holiday season at the Best Western West Memphis Inn or the Best Western Regency Motor Inn in Marion. Enjoy a day of holiday fun and shopping, and retire in comfortable Best Western accommodations for the night. Make the most of the holidays in West Memphis with Best Western Hotels.