Log on to access the Winter Issue of the AFEA SPOTlight.  Featured in this edition:

– Conference Information - speaker highlights, hotel info, registration form

– Call for ALFiE Award Nominations - Deadline February 10th

– Industry Resources & Trends - NEW Employment Opportunities

– New AFEA Members

– Call for Vendors

– Upcoming Events

– …and more!

Submitting a nomination for ALFiE award(s) is free, so make time to fill out the nomination form, gather supporting information, and send it to us before the February 10 deadline to be evaluated against the best in Arkansas.  Also, be sure to register for the conference.

We will recognize outstanding examples of quality, creativity, and achievement in the festivals and events industry for 2011.  Awards will be presented during the Award Banquet held on the evening of Thursday, March 15.

Download ALFiE Nomination Form

Registration is now open for AFEA’s 28th annual conference, March 14-16, 2012 in Rogers!  A full schedule of events will be posted soon.  Until then, here are some hightlights: 

VAN TILBURY – Back by popular demand! Van’s session at the 2011 conference was so popular that we’re bringing him back for an extended session on Friday, March 16. Van will help you make strategic decisions for your event.

SOCIAL MEDIA PANEL – Representatives from Riverfest, Arkansas Department of Parks & Tourism, and MusicFest will discuss how they have used Twitter and Facebook to increase attendance.

5Ks and FUN RUNS – Bill Torrey, race director with umpteen years of directing races, will take us step-by-step through organizing and promoting foot races.

FINDING GOOD TALENT FOR YOUR FESTIVAL – There’s plenty of performers out there, but how do you find talent that best fits your festival and event?

AWARDS BANQUET – Always a fun evening to celebrate the best of the best in Arkansas festivals and events.  Deadline to sumbit nominations is February 10.

Entertainment Social –  Featuring Jerry Don O'Neil and Everyday Life at Rogers Little Theatre.

AFEA presents an opportunity to go behind the scentes at MusicFest El Dorado on Saturday, October 8, 2011.  Attendees sign up to shadow committee leaders for half-hour time slots and are encouraged to browse the festival before and after scheduled programming.  Registration also includes a Main Street El Droado bag with admission ticket, 2 beverage tokens, notepads, and more.  Free MusicFest T-shirts will be given to the first 10 registrants. 

Registration Information - DEADLINE TO REGISTER:  September 23, 2011