Highfill Highlights
The Highfill Parks Advisory Committee gathered on Monday, October 27, 2025, for an energetic meeting focused on leadership, upcoming events, and enhancing the community’s park experiences. Members discussed responsibilities, shared ideas, and collaborated to keep Highfill vibrant, welcoming, and family-friendly.
New Leadership for a Bright Future
The meeting opened with public comments, then moved to new business. Interim Chair Brittany announced she would step down from her acting role and return to Vice Chair. She nominated Matthew as the new Chairperson. With no other nominations, the committee unanimously elected Matthew. Members voiced their support, and Matthew accepted enthusiastically, ready to lead new community initiatives.
Reflecting on the Fall Tree Giveaway
The committee celebrated the Fall Tree Giveaway, held October 17, 2025. Residents arrived as early as 6:45 a.m., showing strong community interest in greening Highfill’s neighborhoods.
Despite a slower distribution than in previous years, the committee successfully handed out all trees. Members shared stories of positive interactions with residents and partners, including a productive discussion with Scott Vanhook from the Arkansas Department of Agriculture – Forestry Division. The event highlighted the community’s continued enthusiasm and support.
Looking Ahead: Trunk or Treat on October 31
The much-anticipated Trunk or Treat, originally set for October 25, was rescheduled due to weather. The committee confirmed the new date: Friday, October 31, 2025, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. They reviewed scheduling conflicts and agreed the revised date would allow families to participate safely and enjoyably.
Event highlights include:
- Best Trunk Award, sponsored with a $30 gift card by El Pueblito
- Committee members encouraged to attend for community support; decorating a trunk is optional
- Organized award presentations and event logistics to ensure a family-friendly evening
The committee anticipates a festive, memorable night for children and families.
Fall Festival Preparations in Full Swing
The committee shifted focus to the Highfill Fall Festival on Saturday, November 15, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Preparations are well underway, with strong participation from local vendors and community members.
Current plans include:
- 17 vendors confirmed, more expected before the November 10 deadline
- A petting zoo, activity booths, pumpkin-painting, and pie-eating contest
- Pumpkin donations from Mason Valley Baptist Church and pies from The Wooden Spoon
- Efforts to secure a main food vendor for meals like barbecue or burgers
- Entertainment plans including a DJ and large outdoor yard games, supplemented by committee members
Each planning step brings the festival closer to becoming a fun, engaging, family-centered celebration of fall in Highfill.
Spreading Holiday Cheer: Christmas in the Park – December 5
The Parks Advisory Committee is thrilled to announce plans for Christmas in the Park on Friday, December 5, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. at Highfill City Park.
Thanks to the dedication of committee member Gina, families will enjoy a festive photo backdrop and Santa’s chair, with a local photographer capturing cherished memories. Handsome Holiday Heroes will handle the park lighting, creating a warm, magical glow. While expanded lighting ideas were discussed, major changes will wait until next year to remain cost-conscious.
Other highlights include:
- More than 125 cookies pledged by generous community volunteers
- Discussions about a permanent, city-owned tree and additional decorations in the future
- Consideration of renaming the event “Holidays in Highfill” or “Highfill Holiday Daze” for inclusivity
With Santa, lights, treats, and community camaraderie, this year’s Christmas in the Park promises to kick off the holiday season with joy and cheer.
Park Maintenance Updates
The committee then reviewed park maintenance priorities:
- Playground Fence: A community poll received 149 responses, with 73% favoring replacement. The committee will gather estimates for repair or replacement, considering both cost and durability. Options include a new chain-link fence or more expensive, durable materials such as wrought iron. Work is scheduled after Christmas in the Park to avoid disruptions.
- Tree Care: The committee will address a dying walnut near the South Entrance, two split Bradford pears, a tall elm requiring trimming, and several deep-planted interval trees. Estimates will be collected for removal and maintenance, potentially in January.
- Lawn Games: Plans for oversized games for future park events remain within budget.
Committee members emphasized continuous evaluation and improvement of park needs.
Staff Reports and Committee Updates
- Brittany presented a versatile Fall Festival banner design with Velcro attachments for annual updates, reducing long-term costs.
- Photo booth plans were streamlined to fit the budget.
- The community event budget stands at $14,259, with roughly $8,946 remaining for upcoming expenses.
- Plans include reorganizing park documents and establishing a treasurer role for improved financial management.
The committee aims to space events across spring, fall, and holiday seasons to maintain focus on park improvements while keeping community celebrations lively and well-attended.
Next Meeting
The next Parks Advisory Committee meeting will take place on Tuesday, January 20, 2026. Key topics include staffing, selecting a treasurer, and reviewing post-holiday events.
From festivals to family fun, the Parks Advisory Committee continues working to make Highfill a welcoming, enjoyable place for all. Stay up to date on city events through the City Events & Activities, follow us on Facebook, and join us at upcoming celebrations!
It’s My Town!