35th annual Toad Suck Daze has something for everyone

There's a certain excitement that fills the air in downtown Conway as crowds gather to cheer on a unique collection of athletes. They are tiny. They are unpredictable. They are amphibians.

The toad races are just one of the highlights at the annual Toad Suck Daze festival, going strong since 1982. But they're not the only part. Festival director Mary Margaret Satterfield says it's a three-day celebration with games, music and food aimed at a wide range of tastes.

"We have things for people of all ages," she says. "It's a weekend that the whole family can come out and enjoy some time together."

There are multiple entertainment stages scattered through the festival grounds, hosting groups like headliners Danny Gokey, Peter Furler, Josh Wilson and Thompson Square on the Crain Kia/McDonalds Main Stage. Downtown businesses Kings Live Music and JJ's will have stages for the first time, with performers including Tyler Kinchen and the Right Pieces.

Then there's the children's area, where two stages will host magicians, dancers and choirs and even a performance by Frozen's Anna and Elsa.

Satterfield says, "Our Toadal Kids Zone is always packed every year," with its sandbox, pony rides, play area and children's midway.

For shoppers, there's the Toad Market, where nearly 150 vendors sell commercial and arts and crafts items. Last year the festival implemented a new shopping experience: Oak Street Galleria, which is "an artisan-type area" according to Satterfield, boasting boutique and finer hand-made items.

The Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce will be onsite with an interactive trailer promoting their Be Pro Be Proud initiative, using games to generate interest in skills jobs such as welding and electrical work.

While there may be something for everyone, Satterfield points out that that does not include four-legged friends. Because the festival tends to be very crowded, pets are not allowed at the festival "unless it's a service animal -- or a toad." Speaking of crowds, there is no designated parking area for the festival and attendees are warned to be mindful of where they decide to park. No-parking zones will be enforced.

They have made one big change to make things a bit more streamlined for guests this year.

In the past, festivalgoers have had to buy Toad Bucks; this year, though, they're doing away with the ticket currency. Now, people will be able to buy whatever they wish with cash or credit cards.

Otherwise, it will be the same hopping festival it has been for more than 30 years.

Everyone has a favorite activity and, for Satterfield, it's the toad races: "You can find people enjoying corn dogs or funnel cakes or shopping in a lot of places, but that's something that's completely unique to Toad Suck Daze."

Weekend on 04/28/2016