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It’s finally here—the most wonderful time of the year! Christmas in Arkansas is truly magical, thanks to the warm-hearted communities that come together to create festive experiences for everyone to enjoy. From dazzling light displays to charming holiday markets, there’s no shortage of events that will fill you with Yuletide cheer this December. Whether you’re planning a family outing or looking for unique local traditions, this list of Christmas events across the state will help you get into the spirit. Don’t forget to check in with your local chamber of commerce for details on parades, events, and ways to support Arkansas businesses while you shop this season!
Batesville Christmas Capital of Arkansas
Each winter, Batesville, Arkansas— the state’s oldest city—becomes the Christmas Capital of Arkansas™. Visitors from near and far flock to this festive destination to experience over a million twinkling lights spread across 35 acres of Riverside Park. The park’s stunning light display is complemented by a variety of holiday activities, including carriage rides, ice skating, a Ferris wheel, free holiday movies, and more.
The entire display is walkable, with illuminated trails guiding visitors through the park’s magical transformation. In addition to the breathtaking light show, Batesville offers a full month of festive events, including a Christmas craft show, a performance of The Nutcracker, holiday movies at the Melba Theatre, a 5k run, the Festival of Lessons and Carols, gingerbread-making classes, an Old-Fashioned Christmas celebration, and a Polar Express experience. There’s something for everyone to enjoy during this magical holiday season in Batesville!
Venue: Batesville
Date: Nov. 27- Jan. 2
More Information: Click Here
Bethlehem Revisited | Conway
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and even the smells of the night the Light of the World was born! This captivating experience will guide you through the ancient prophecies of Isaiah, into the lively streets of Bethlehem, and finally to the humble stable where it all began. Best of all, admission is free! After the journey, enjoy warm cookies and hot chocolate as you reflect on this unforgettable story.
Venue: Antioch Church
Date: Dates: Dec. 6-8 (6:30-8:30)
More Information: Click Here
Robinson Center Holiday Events | Little Rock
Give the gift of unforgettable memories this holiday season with tickets to the Robinson Center! Whether you’re treating a friend or planning a festive outing, their exciting lineup of performances is sure to delight. One highlight not to miss—The Nutcracker—is a beloved holiday tradition for families, offering a magical experience that will be cherished for years to come.
The Prophecy Show : December 1
The Illusionists- Magic of the Holidays: December 6
Nutcracker Spectacular with Arkansas Symphony Orchestra: December 13-15
Home for the Holidays: December 20-22
Black Nativity: December 23
Nutcracker- Magical Christmas Ballet: December 31
Tickets: Click Here
Robinson Center
426 W Markham Street
Little Rock, AR 72201
Winter Nights | Fayetteville
Make Winter Nights at Walton Arts Center a new holiday tradition for the whole family to enjoy! Twinkling lights, beautiful silvery decorations, a cozy cup of cheer and take your seasonal selfies or use the photo booth for your perfect holiday card shot. You can warm up in Joy Pratt Markham Gallery where there will be games and activities for children and adults, and guests will also have a chance to spread holiday cheer by writing a season greeting to a veteran or retirement home resident. Delightful treats and heartwarming drinks for both kids and adults will be available to purchase.
Venue: Walton Arts Center
Date: Nov. 14- Dec. 21
More Information: Click Here
Walton Arts Center | Fayetteville
There will also be more events at the Walton Arts Center this month. You can click here for tickets and more information.
Kristin Chenoweth: Dec. 3
Meus Centerpiece Workshop: Dec. 4
Jazz Club Jonathan Kreisberg: Dec. 6
SoNA Christmas: Dec. 7
The Snowman: Dec. 8
Blippi: Dec. 10
Jim Brickman: Dec. 12
Joe Machi: Dec. 12
Ben Folds with Lindsey Kraft: Dec. 14
Shucked: Dec. 17-22
38th Annual Christmas and Candlelight | Historic Washington
Make plans to visit Historic Washington State Park and enjoy the natural beauty that the candlelit streets provide as you stroll through the historic village. Decorations, music and more set the mood for a wonderful historic holiday experience. The homes are adorned with historic period decorations, and thousands of luminaries will light the streets throughout the town. Tours are available, as well as evening meals at Williams Tavern Restaurant.
Venue: Historic Washington State Park
Date: Dec. 13-14
More Information: Click Here
The Living Nativity | Searcy
The Living Nativity is a free drive-thru event where the Christmas story comes alive as the outside of a church is transformed to reflect the hustle and bustle of Bethlehem as it would have appeared in biblical times. There will be exotic animals, handmade costumes and crafts setting the scene for the Nativity. Visitors come face-to-face with the Roman guards at the city gates before being swept into an authentic-looking and multidimensional experience of the first Christmas.
Venue: Searcy First Assembly of God
Dates: Dec. 6-8, 11, and 13
More Information: Click Here
Searcy will also host many more events. Click Here for a complete list.
A Ferncliff Christmas (Little Rock)
You can experience the nativity story in a whole new way at the Ferncliff Christmas event. There will be an interactive nativity trail, holiday market, hot cocoa, and crafts.
Venue: Ferncliff Camp
Date: Dec. 13-15
More Information: Click Here
Christmas at the Park | Jonesboro
Christmas at the Park is a winter wonderland with over a half-mile drive-thru of an estimated 65 collections consisting of almost 450 pieces with over 400,000 lights. The trees at Joe Mack Campbell will offer a Snowflake Forest as well as the longest drive-thru lighted tunnel. As guests travel through the drive-thru, they will have an opportunity to participate in an A-State Howl & Scarlet Scavenger Hunt of several custom-designed pieces. Guests will also be able to venture out of their cars and visit the concession stand, take pictures with props and when available, even meet Santa. The attraction will also offer events throughout the season, such as community caroling and fireworks.
Venue: Joe Mack Campbell Park
Dates: Click Here
More Information: Click Here
Marlsgate Plantation | Scott
Marlsgate Plantation is a stunning destination year-round, but it truly shines during December with a variety of festive events perfect for a holiday outing. From an elegant candlelight dinner to a whimsical children’s “Road to Bethlehem” experience, and a charming Christmas Afternoon Tea, there’s something for everyone. Tickets are required for each event, so be sure to reserve your spot for an unforgettable holiday experience at this historic plantation.
Venue: Marlsgate Plantation (Scott)
Dates: Varies depending on the event
More Information and Tickets: Click Here
Garvan Woodland Gardens Holiday Lights | Hot Springs
Celebrate the beauty of the season in an outdoor winter garden! The winter garden festival will run through the month of December. The garden is transformed into an absolute beauty with thousands of lights to enjoy. This would make a perfect night out to add to your holiday traditions.
Venue: Garvan Woodland Gardens
Date: Open Daily through December (Closed Christmas Day)
More Information: Click Here
Lights of the Ozarks | Fayetteville
Enjoy the award-winning winter wonderland on the Fayetteville Historic Downtown Square. Every year, nearly half a million twinkling lights illuminate the square each evening from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. through New Year’s Day. Winter treats, hot cocoa and festive music make the Lights of the Ozarks an event that cannot be missed. There will also be letters to Santa (you might get a reply!) and food trucks.
Venue: Downtown Fayetteville
Date: Nov. 22- January 1
More Information: Click Here
Piccolo Zoppé Winter Circus | North Little Rock
This is not just any circus that is coming to town. The Zoppé family has enchanted audiences worldwide since traveling the cobblestone roads of Italy in 1842. One hundred eighty years later, their passion for performing their art and sharing their hearts with their audiences remains true to this day. Arkansas residents for over 35 years, The Zoppés are excited to bring their talent to the families of their home state. Piccolo Zoppé is an intimate, European-style circus, classic in its beauty. No audience member is more than 18 feet away from the ring. When you arrive, you will be greeted by some of the performers in the foyer, where you’ll be entertained and invited to emerge in the surroundings, stepping back in time and indulging in European-style street food and, of course, all the circus favorites, popcorn, cotton candy and other delectable delights. So come early and bring your appetite. As you enter the main tent, you will soon become aware that this circus is completely different. Petite and unique. You will witness the beauty of galloping horses, performing dogs, aerialist feats, jugglers, acrobats, and all you would expect from a classical European circus. Join them for a most unforgettable experience where you will laugh, cry, and become part of their family.
Venue: North Little Rock , Greenbrier, and Hot Springs
Date: Multiple Dates in December
More Information: Click Here
Hometown Christmas Events
In addition to all the events listed above, there are countless Holiday Open Houses, hometown parades, hometown craft fairs, and lighting ceremonies in communities all over the state. No matter where you live in the state, it will be easy to find a local Christmas event to enjoy!
Happy December, Arkansas!
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