One of Texarkana’s most beloved and meaningful community events is saddling up once again.
The Texarkana Area Chapter #278 of the Vietnam Veterans of America, Inc. will host its 8th Annual “Wagons for Veterans” on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at the Four States Fairgrounds in Texarkana, Arkansas. The public is invited and encouraged to attend.
This unique fundraiser brings the Old West to life with authentic open-fire cooking, as teams prepare meals the traditional way — in cast iron pots and skillets over an open flame, just like on the cattle drives of long ago. For $20 per person ($10 for children 12 and under), attendees can enjoy a variety of menu items cooked the old-fashioned way.
Opening at 10:00 am with welcome ceremonies starting at 11:15 a.m., with meals served starting at 11:30 a.m.
In addition to the chuck wagon cooking, the event will feature a full day of family-friendly entertainment, including Iron Munchers, square dancing, live music, bounce houses, a car-jeep-bike show, antique tractors, various displays, and a live auction.
While the atmosphere is festive, the mission is serious.
The first seven “Wagons for Veterans” events have been highly successful, raising more than $120,000 to assist local disabled and needy veterans and their families. Funds have helped cover home repairs, utility bills, wheelchair ramps, funeral expenses, rent, medical assistance, school books, work clothes and boots, gasoline, hygiene packs and socks for homeless veterans, food boxes for veterans served through the local VA Clinic, and donations to the Hero’s Pantry, which feeds approximately 125 veterans and their families each month.
Organizers emphasize that no funds raised are used for administrative purposes, ensuring that every dollar goes directly toward helping veterans in need.
The event’s success is made possible by sponsors, volunteers, cooks, and community members who attend and support the cause. Chapter #278 is currently seeking sponsors at multiple levels — $2,000, $1,000, $500, $250, and $100 — as well as donations of items for the live auction.
Community members interested in sponsoring or contributing can visit the organization’s Facebook page at Vietnam Veterans of America #278 for more information.
Organizers say they are grateful for the continued support and invite everyone to come out March 14 to enjoy great food, entertainment, and fellowship — all while helping those who have served.
“Thank you for helping us help veterans and their families.”
