CAVE CITY — Cave City has advanced to the Elite Eight in the 10th annual Strongest Town Contest hosted by Strong Towns, now competing head-to-head against Sheboygan, Wisconsin, in Matchup 4.
Voting for Round 2 is underway and continues through Friday, March 20, at 9 a.m. CT. Anyone can cast one vote per round at www.strongesttown.com.
The contest recognizes communities demonstrating progress in infrastructure, economic vitality, long-term sustainability and resilience. Cave City, a town of about 1,900 residents known as the Home of the World’s Sweetest Watermelons, advanced after strong support in the initial Showcase round (March 2-13). Nominators highlighted the community’s response and recovery following an EF3 tornado in March 2025, emphasizing momentum, optimism and collective strength.
In Round 2, the eight remaining contestants are paired in four matchups, with winners advancing to the Final Four (March 23-27) and then the Championship (March 30-April 3).
Mayor Jonas Anderson encouraged residents, alumni and supporters to vote and share the link, noting the honor of representing Arkansas on the national stage.
Cave City is located in Sharp County, about 30 miles northeast of Batesville in Independence County, and draws regional interest for its small-town character and agricultural heritage.
