Fort Smith Riverfront Blues Society Announces December Hiatus and January Comeback for Blues Jam

louwofford
Dec 17, 2025
4 min read

The Fort Smith Riverfront Blues Society has shared an important update for blues enthusiasts and local musicians. The popular 3rd Sunday Blues Jam, a staple event for the community, will take a break in December 2025. After this brief pause, the jam sessions will resume on January 18th, 2026, promising a fresh start to the new year. This announcement gives fans and performers time to plan ahead and look forward to the return of live blues music in Fort Smith.

Eye-level view of a dimly lit stage with blues instruments set up for a jam session — Fort Smith Riverfront Blues Society stage setup before a jam session

What the December Hiatus Means for the Community

The 3rd Sunday Blues Jam has become a cherished event for many in Fort Smith. It offers a space where musicians of all skill levels gather to share their love for blues music, connect with others, and keep the genre alive locally. The December break means there will be no jam session this month, giving everyone a chance to recharge and prepare for the upcoming year.

This pause is common for many community music groups during the holiday season. It allows organizers to focus on planning, maintenance, and sometimes personal time. For attendees, it’s a moment to reflect on the past year’s performances and anticipate new collaborations and songs.

How to Stay Engaged During the Hiatus

Even though the jam won’t happen in December, blues fans can still stay connected to the music and the community. Here are some ways to keep the blues spirit alive during the break:

Listen to classic and local blues recordings: Explore albums from legendary blues artists as well as local Fort Smith musicians.
Practice your instrument or vocals: Use this time to improve your skills or learn new songs to bring to the jam in January.
Attend other local music events: Support nearby concerts or open mic nights to stay involved in the live music scene.
Connect online: Join blues forums or social media groups dedicated to blues music to share stories, tips, and song recommendations.
Plan for January’s jam: Mark your calendar for January 18th, 2026, and consider inviting friends or new musicians to join the session.

What to Expect When the Jam Returns in January

The Fort Smith Riverfront Blues Society is committed to making the January 18th jam session a memorable event. Returning after a break often brings renewed energy and excitement. Musicians can expect:

A welcoming environment for both seasoned players and newcomers.
Opportunities to collaborate on new blues arrangements.
A chance to hear fresh material and classic blues tunes.
Networking with other blues enthusiasts and local artists.
The usual friendly atmosphere that encourages creativity and fun.

The Society may also introduce some new features or surprises to kick off the new year, so attendees should stay tuned for announcements.

Why the 3rd Sunday Blues Jam Matters

This monthly jam is more than just a music event. It plays a vital role in Fort Smith’s cultural life by:

Preserving blues heritage: Keeping the blues tradition alive through live performance.
Building community: Bringing together people from different backgrounds who share a passion for music.
Supporting local talent: Providing a platform for musicians to develop and showcase their skills.
Encouraging creativity: Offering a space where improvisation and collaboration thrive.
Enhancing the local music scene: Adding diversity and richness to Fort Smith’s entertainment options.

The temporary pause in December highlights the importance of the jam by reminding everyone how much it contributes to the city’s cultural fabric.

Tips for Musicians Preparing for the January Jam

If you plan to participate in the January 18th session, here are some practical tips to get ready:

Choose your songs: Pick a few blues standards or original pieces to perform.
Practice regularly: Use the break to sharpen your technique and timing.
Bring your gear: Make sure your instrument and equipment are in good condition.
Arrive early: Give yourself time to set up and warm up before the jam starts.
Be open to collaboration: Jams thrive on spontaneity and teamwork.
Respect the space and others: Follow the Society’s guidelines to keep the event enjoyable for everyone.

Supporting the Fort Smith Riverfront Blues Society

The Society relies on community support to keep events like the 3rd Sunday Blues Jam running smoothly. Here are ways to contribute:

Attend events regularly: Your presence helps maintain the energy and atmosphere.
Volunteer: Help with setup, promotion, or other tasks.
Donate: Financial support helps cover venue costs and equipment.
Spread the word: Invite friends and share information about the jams.
Engage on social media: Follow and interact with the Society’s channels to boost visibility.

Your involvement ensures the blues continue to thrive in Fort Smith.

Looking Ahead to 2026 and Beyond

The return of the Blues Jam in January marks a fresh chapter for the Fort Smith Riverfront Blues Society. As the community looks forward to more music, collaboration, and fun, the Society plans to keep growing the event’s reach and impact.

Musicians and fans can expect: