Holiday Magic Is in the Air
2024 Guide to Celebrating the Holidays in Little Rock
Shop for the best presents, experience festive activities, and watch magical performances this holiday season in Little Rock.
Every year, Little Rock transforms into a winter wonderland with a variety of unforgettable festivities. Tackle your holiday wish list with our shopping hubs and attend dazzling performances. Create photo-worthy memories and share your Little Rock holiday experience on social media. Whether you're having family over for the winter season or you're establishing new Christmas traditions with friends, Little Rock offers jolly fun for all visitors.
Top 10 Holiday Activities in Little Rock
1. Holiday Events & Performances
Little Rock is packed with winter festivities to make your season merry! Check out these must-see events:
The BIG Little Rock Holiday Parade - December 7, 2024
Embrace the holiday spirit as joy, wonder, and magic fill the streets of Little Rock. This year’s theme, “Floats Along the River,” celebrates the city’s vibrant connection to the Arkansas River, bringing dazzling floats and festive cheer to downtown.- Arkansas State Capitol Lighting Ceremony - December 7, 2024
Watch the historic capitol building come alive with dazzling holiday lights, transforming into a glimmering Christmas attraction. - Ballet Arkansas’ Nutcracker Spectacular - December 13-15, 2024
Enjoy this beloved holiday classic, as Ballet Arkansas brings the magic of The Nutcracker to life on stage. - Arkansas Symphony Orchestra’s Home for the Holidays – December 20-22, 2024
Experience the sounds of the season with music and festive performances from the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra, perfect for holiday cheer.
2. Holiday Shopping
From chic boutiques to bustling markets, Little Rock’s shopping scene is the place to be this holiday season! Discover unique finds in every corner of the city and local gems that can add a little flair to your gift list.
Must-Stop Shops:
- The Park Plaza Mall and Midtowne Shopping Center are just some of the major retail hubs that include upscale brands and high-end home accents.
- The River Market and South Main (SoMa) are perfect for one-of-a-kind keepsakes and trendy accessories.
- Swing by the Arkansas Craft Guild Christmas Showcase (Dec 6-8) at the Arkansas State Fairgrounds for a festive atmosphere and handmade goodies galore.
- Located in southwest Little Rock, Plaza Frida is a vibrant cultural and community center that celebrates Hispanic heritage through diverse shops, authentic restaurants, and family-friendly activities.
- Pop into the Outlets of Little Rock, Pleasant Ridge Town Center, or the Promenade at Chenal to find something for everyone on your list.
3. Winter Fun at the Little Rock Zoo
Looking for more holiday excitement? The Little Rock Zoo has you covered with seasonal events perfect for the whole family:
- GloWild Lantern Festival - November 7, 2024 to January 5, 2025
Wander through a spectacular display of lanterns showcasing different species, bringing a magical glow to the zoo grounds. - New Year's Gloing Eve – December 31, 2024
Ring in the new year with live entertainment, exciting games, and a dazzling celebration at the zoo.
4. Holiday Lights & Decorations
Create unforgettable holiday memories with these dazzling light displays and decorations around Little Rock:
- Capital Hotel Christmas Tree
Marvel at the stunning Christmas tree and lavish holiday decor inside this historic hotel – a perfect spot for festive photos. - Public Menorah
Located at the corner of Bowman and Chenal Parkway in west Little Rock, this public Menorah is a beloved holiday icon. - SoMa Neighborhood Tree at Bernice Garden & Main Street Creative Corridor
The South Main (SoMa) area gets into the festive spirit with a whimsical neighborhood tree at Bernice Garden. Just up the road, the Main Street Creative Corridor lights up with beautiful holiday displays and its own decorated tree, bringing even more holiday magic to downtown. - Twinkling Holiday Light Displays
Discover even more beautifully decorated spots across the city with our guide to must-see holiday lights.
5. Festive Feasts
Celebrate the season with Little Rock’s fantastic holiday dining options:
- Murry's Dinner Playhouse
Enjoy a festive meal while watching White Christmas, a musical comedy inspired by the classic film. Running from November 13 to December 31, 2024, this show is filled with love, laughter, and timeless melodies like “Blue Skies,” “Sisters,” and, of course, “White Christmas.” - Holiday Dining
Looking for a festive meal to share with friends and family? Remove the stress of a home-made meal and visit local favorites open and ready to serve up holiday cheer.
6. Family Fun with a Merry Twist
Planning for an action-packed itinerary with family during the holidays?
- Ice Skating
Glide across a vast ice arena at the Arkansas Skatium, practicing new spins and turns with plenty of space. - Movies at the Museum
For a Christmas spin on your museum-going adventure, watch a classic holiday movie at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts. - Ugly Sweater Race
Strap on your running shoes and join the Ugly Sweater Race on December 21, 2024, which supports the services of the Little Rock Parks and Recreation Department.
8. Grab a Holiday-Themed Drink
The nightlife scene in Little Rock provides endless fun for the winter season with seasonal drinks and an energetic ambience.
- Head to the downtown area and find an array of bars to cozy up in this chilly season.
- The Flying Saucer Draught Emporium and Rock Town Distillery are just some of the local-favorite bars to grab a seasonal cocktail.
9. Get Outside
With the average high temperature of 52.6°F degrees in December, the winter weather in Little Rock gives way to invigorating outdoor experiences.
- Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the holidays with scenic journeys across Little Rock's parks and cycling trails.
- Or grab your hiking shoes for an experience across the winding Ouachita National Recreation Trail, which starts at Pinnacle Mountain State Park.
10. Make a Weekend Out of it
Looking for a place to stay during the holidays in Little Rock? Discover a variety of lodging options in different areas of Little Rock. In addition to comfortable accommodations, there are festive happenings across different hotels in Little Rock, including the Capital Hotel's Beary Christmas Workshop December 15-16 and its Storytime with Santa sessions December 17-20.
The holidays in Little Rock create joyous moments for all ages. Mark your calendar for the most wonderful time of the year with marvelous festivities.
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