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We've found the best 2024 HOLIDAY events and experiences in Arkansas and can't wait to share them with you so you can choose what's best for your family!
NEW FOR 2024 - This year we've included holiday events throughout Arkansas. Whether you're visiting relatives out of town or want to explore the Natural State, we've got something for everyone!
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Macaroni KID Fayetteville • Macaroni KID Rogers-Bentonville
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Ongoing Events
While we strive to keep our guides and calendars as up-to-date as possible, weather and other unforeseen circumstances may delay or cancel events. Call ahead to confirm or check social media for updates before going. Links are included in the calendar event listings for your convenience.
Sherwood's Trail of Lights - Nov. 29 to Dec. 30, 2024 ~ website
- Sherwood's Free Trail of Lights is ready to shine bright once again this season!
- New for 2024: No reservations needed, extended hours, quicker access, faster flow, and contactless donations (always appreciated!)
- Enter at 420 Dee Jay Hudson Drive and exit at Sherwood Forest, 1111 W. Maryland Ave.
Willastein Whimsical Trail in Maumelle ~ Now through Jan. 5 ~ website
- Experience the beauty of this lighted trail after dusk! Free and open nightly from 5-10 pm.
Jacksonville's All Lit Up! Merry & Bright ~ Dec. 7 through the New Year ~ website
- Jacksonville's All Lit Up! trail of lights & tree lighting event, is free and open to the public.
Lights for Lions 2024 at the Little Rock Zoo - Nov. 1, 2024 to Jan. 31, 2025 ~ website
- Donate your unwanted string lights and extension cords at the Front Gate
- The Zoo has partnered with TRG in North Little Rock to recycle the copper with proceeds going to the Lion Recovery Fund
Benton Ice Skating Rink - Dec. 1, 2024 to Jan. 5, 2025 ~ website
- Free General Admission with Advance Registration
- Closed Christmas Eve/Day and New Year's Day
- See the lights and visit Santa at the Courthouse (select nights in December.)
Lights of the Ozarks in Fayetteville - Nov. 22, 2024, to Jan 1, 2025 ~ website
- The most treasured celebration of holiday lights in Northwest Arkansas, Lights of the Ozarks, returns to Fayetteville's Historic Downtown Square!
Christmas Lights & Snow Village in Eureka Springs - now through Jan. 1, 2025 ~ website
- Experience Christmas from Thanksgiving night through January 1 (Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays) Drive-through light display with lights on from dark through 8:00 pm.
- Christmas Snow Village with Trains will be open when the Gift Shop across from the Box Office is Open. See the website for details.
Holiday Lights Extravaganza in Smackover ~ website
- Every Friday and Saturday, from Nov. 22-Dec. 21, 2024, 5:30-8:30 pm.
- $10 per vehicle with up to seven people and $2 for each additional person.
- The Holiday Hoopla on Dec. 7th is $20 per car with up to seven people and $5 for each additional person.
Holiday Lights in Hot Springs - Nov. 23 to Dec. 31, 2024 ~ tickets
- Nestled in the picturesque Ouachita Mountains of Southwest Arkansas the gardens offer breathtaking sights (and fantastic photo opportunities) at every turn. Visit during the day and return at night for the incredible holiday display with 7 million lights!
Glisten in Greenbrier at Matthews Park - Nov. 30, 2024 to Jan. 4, 2025 ~ website
- Central Arkansas' premier winter wonderland
- Festive lights, FAB&T skating rink, special events, and more!
- Tree Lighting and Santa "Fly-In" on Sat., Nov. 30th
- Christmas Parade "Music Notes and Christmas Floats!" on Thur., Dec. 12th
ISO Foundation Toy Drive - Dec. 1-20, 2024 ~ event flyer
- Drop off new, unwrapped toys and join us for our event party on Dec. 21, 2024
Rock Creek Christmas Spectacular Light Show - Dec. 3-31, 2024 ~ website
- Enjoy over 10,000 LED lights synced to some of the best Christmas music!
Winter Glow at Botanical Gardens of the Ozarks - Dec. 6-22, 2024 ~ tickets
- Each weekend features a different theme, performers, and experiences.
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December 19, 2024
Elf (2003, PG) at Ron Robinson Theater in Little Rock ~ tickets
- This modern holiday classic follows Buddy the Elf (Will Ferrell) as he discovers his true identity and sets off on a quest to New York City to find his real family. A perfect holiday film for all ages, Elf reminds us of the importance of family, joy, and believing in the magic of Christmas.
December 20, 2024
Santa at the Saline County Courthouse ~ website
December 21, 2024
ISO Foundation Toy Drive Party in Little Rock ~ event flyer
- Santa and his elves arrive to spread holiday cheer at our toy drive event party!
Emmet Otter's Jug-Band Christmas (1977) at Ron Robinson Theater in Little Rock ~ tickets
- This charming Jim Henson classic tells the story of Emmet and his Ma, who enter a talent contest to afford Christmas gifts for each other. Filled with heartwarming songs and delightful puppet characters, Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas is a nostalgic journey that captures the simplicity and magic of holiday traditions, making it perfect for family viewing.
It's a Wonderful Life (1946, PG) at Ron Robinson Theater in Little Rock ~ tickets
- One of the most beloved holiday films of all time, It’s a Wonderful Life stars James Stewart as George Bailey, a man who discovers the value of his life thanks to his guardian angel.
Christmas Stocking Giveaway at the Benton Farmers Market ~ website
Christmas Movie at the Benton Farmers Market ~ website
Santa on the Square in El Dorado ~ website
- Photos w/ Santa and free horse-drawn carriage rides and rides on the Queen City Train.
Pancakes with Santa at Off the Rail Cafe in El Dorado (afternoon event) ~ tickets
- Eat pancakes in your PJs and visit with Santa. What a wonderful holiday tradition!
- Tickets available Nov. 22nd.
🎉 December 31, 2024 🎉
Noon Year's Eve at the Museum of Discovery in Little Rock ~ tickets
- This fun-filled event is perfect for little ones (and grown-ups!) who want to celebrate the New Year without staying up past bedtime.
- Balloon Drop Countdowns at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., noon, and 1 p.m. so you will have a countdown experience no matter when you join us.
New Year's Eve at Dave & Buster's in Little Rock ~ tickets
- You don't need to wait until Midnight to ring in the New Year! Celebrate early at D&B and get the kids to bed on time!
- Tickets include a banquet, unlimited soft drinks, a $20 Poower Card, NYE Hats & Noisemakers, a Video Ball Drop, Ginger Ale Toast, and more!
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Do you know of an event that should be listed here?
Email sandrao@macaronikid.com or for NWA events, email karaa@macaronikid.com
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☃️ Happy Holidays from our families to yours! ☃️
