A Season to Celebrate: Holiday Magic Across the Ozarks

The Ozarks shine bright during the holiday season, offering twinkling light displays, festive markets, magical Santa sightings, cozy winter activities, and unforgettable performances. From Northwest Arkansas to Branson and beyond, you’ll find plenty of ways to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year all the way through January.

Explore the best events still happening across the region — perfect for last-minute holiday fun, family outings, and festive getaways.

Light Displays

Lights of the Ozarks
Light Display · Through January 1 · Downtown Fayetteville, AR
The Fayetteville Square transforms into a glowing wonderland with over 400,000 lights, food trucks, and holiday cheer.
Learn more

Big Cedar Lodge Holiday Lights & Winter Attractions
Light Displays, Ice Skating & Winter Activities · Through December 30 · Big Cedar Lodge, near Branson, MO
From a sparkling drive-through light trail to a real ice rink, tram rides, and festive décor across the resort, this is one of the most magical holiday destinations in the Ozarks.
Learn more

Lights by the Lake
Light display, November 22 – January 11 — Lakeside Village, Harrison, AR
Enjoy a lakeside walk amid shimmering holiday lights.
Click here to learn more

Trail of Lights at Shepherd of the Hills
Drive-through display, Late November – January 3 — Shepherd of the Hills, Branson, MO
Drive through over 160 acres of dazzling holiday displays.
Click here to drive through

Winter Fun & Experiences

The Rink at Lawrence Plaza
Outdoor Ice Skating · Open Through Winter · Bentonville, AR
Skate under the lights at Bentonville’s beloved outdoor rink — perfect for families, date nights, or festive outings with friends.
Click here to buy your ticket

Christmas at Pinpoint (Holiday Pop-Up Bar)
Pop-up, November 28 –December 31 — Fayetteville, AR
Festive 21+ pop-up with themed seating and seasonal cocktails.
Click here to learn more

Crystal Bridges Winter Cottages (Time Loop Experience)
Immersive Winter Cottage Experience · Through January 4 · Bentonville, AR
Reserve a private cottage surrounded by glowing forest installations and enjoy curated drinks and gourmet small bites in a cozy, magical setting.
Click here to reserve your cottage

The Polar Express™ Train Ride – Branson Scenic Railway
Train Ride with Santa · Select Dates Through January 3 · Downtown Branson, MO
A holiday favorite featuring cocoa, cookies, caroling, a reading of The Polar Express, and a special visit from Santa aboard the train.
Learn more

Holiday Express
Train Ride, Starting November 29 – December 21 — Springdale, AR 

Enjoy a scenic trip through the Ozark Mountains with hot cocoa, holiday treats, and a special appearance by Santa Claus himself!
Click here to learn more

Santa Sightings & Holiday Cheer

Santa at Northwest Arkansas Mall
Photos & Santa Visit · Daily Through December 24 · Fayetteville, AR
A traditional Santa photo experience with walk-up and reservation options.
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Santa at Pinnacle Hills Promenade
Photos & Santa Visit · Daily Through December 24 · Rogers, AR
Capture festive photos with Santa in a cheerful winter-themed setup.
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Brunch with Santa at Chateau on the Lake
Special event, December 7, 14, 21, 2025 — Chateau on the Lake Resort, Branson, MO
Enjoy a festive brunch with Santa and holiday-themed activities.
Click here to learn more

Holiday Markets & Local Shopping

Fayetteville Jingle & Mingle Holiday Market
Holiday Market · Weekends Through December 21 · Fayetteville, AR
An indoor market featuring local makers, artisan gifts, holiday treats, and festive shopping.
Click here to learn more

Bentonville Holiday Indoor Farmers Market
Artisan & Farmers Market · December 13 · Downtown Bentonville, AR
Shop local produce, handmade goods, crafts, and last-minute holiday gifts.
Learn more

CCC Annual Holiday Market
Holiday Market · December 3–18, 2025 · Fayetteville, AR (Community Creative Center)
Browse a variety of local artists and artisans offering handmade gifts, festive treats, and holiday decor. This indoor market is perfect for finding unique presents while supporting the NWA creative community.
Learn more

Holiday Shows & Performances

TheatreSquared — It’s a Wonderful Life
Live Theatre · Through December 24 · Fayetteville, AR
A heartwarming adaptation of the holiday classic, presented with a small ensemble cast bringing dozens of characters to life.
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Branson’s Christmas Wonderland
Holiday Musical · Through December 31 · Branson, MO
A high-energy holiday revue packed with singing, dancing, and sparkling seasonal spirit.
Click here to book tickets

Parades & Community Celebrations

Bentonville Christmas Parade
Holiday Parade · December 13 · Downtown Bentonville, AR
Festive floats, lights, music, and tons of holiday atmosphere fill the streets of downtown Bentonville.
Click here for details

Giving Back & Donation Drives

CARE for the Holidays / Toys for Tots — NWA
Donation drive, November – December — NWA region, AR
Drop-off toys or volunteer to support children in need.
Click here to donate or volunteer

Festival of Stars Toy Drive — Arkansas Children’s
Donation drive, Early–Mid December — NWA & statewide drop-offs
Donate toys for hospitalized children.
Click here to donate now

United Way / Joy of Sharing Gift Drive
Donation drive, Drop-off by mid-December — United Way offices, NWA
Sponsor a child or donate gifts to local families.
Click here to sponsor