Celebrate the Magic of the Holiday Season in Eureka Springs
Step into a world of wonder this holiday season and experience the charm of Eureka Springs, a picturesque Victorian town nestled in the heart of the Ozark Mountains. From festive lights to unique shopping experiences, live performances, and family-friendly activities, there’s something magical for everyone to enjoy. Here’s your guide to making the most of this enchanting season in Eureka Sprin
A Victorian Wonderland of Lights
Eureka Springs transforms into a sparkling holiday haven with stunning light displays. Take a drive through the Passion Play Christmas Lights and marvel at the twinkling brilliance, including their Snow Village. At the Crescent Hotel, wander through a Christmas tree forest that leads to Glennwood Hollow, perfect for capturing the holiday spirit.
Family Fun and Festive Cheer
Make unforgettable memories with the kids this year:
- Breakfast with Santa (Dec. 8 ) at the Crescent Hotel offers sweet and savory delights with a side of Santa magic.
- The Candy Cane Hunt (Dec. 21 ) lets children of all ages join the fun indoors as they search for hidden candy canes.
- Don’t miss Santa’s Mountain Village (Dec. 14-15 ) featuring sledding, train rides, and toy-making workshops for little ones.
- Santa himself will also make appearances in Basin Spring Park on select Saturdays (Dec. 7, 14, 21 ) from 12–5 p.m.
Shopping with a Local Twist
Holiday shopping becomes a special adventure with these local markets and events:
- Shop Small Saturday (Nov. 30 ) : Celebrate local businesses with swag bags, games, and gift card giveaways.
- Meet the Makers Market (Dec. 6-7 ) : Discover handcrafted treasures created by talented local artisans.
- The Elf Maker Market (Dec. 7 ) : Support graduates of the OZ INC Maker Entrepreneur Program and find one-of-a-kind gifts.
- Looking for even more festive fun? Stroll through Candy Cane Lane on Main (Dec. 7 ) for special sales, treats, and costume contests.
Music and Performances to Warm Your Heart
The town is alive with the sounds of the season, from traditional concerts to dazzling theatrical performances:
- The Nutcracker Sweets (Nov. 30 ) : Ignite Dance’s debut Nutcracker performance at the Historic Auditorium is a must-see holiday tradition.
- The Ozarks Chorale (Dec. 8 ) : Enjoy a festive concert of classic holiday songs.
- John Two-Hawks Christmas Concert (Dec. 12 ) : An intimate evening of enchanting music at the Crescent Hotel Conservatory.
- For a laugh and a little nostalgia, catch one of the FREE Christmas Movie Nights at the Auditorium. Titles include The Year Without a Santa Claus (Dec. 6 ) and The Santa Clause (Dec. 20 ) .
Parades, Tree Lightings, and Unique Festivities
Nothing captures the holiday spirit like a parade or a good old-fashioned tree lighting. Don’t miss:
- Basin Park Tree Lighting (Nov. 30 ) : Experience the joy of a small-town tree lighting ceremony with a fiddling Santa and his elves.
- A Board Game Christmas Parade (Dec. 6 ) : Watch creative, light-filled floats parade through downtown Eureka Springs.
- Jinglin’ Jeep Parade (Dec. 21 ) : Decorate your Jeep or cheer on the festive convoy during this unique celebration.
- For something truly magical, stroll through Living Windows (Dec. 14 ) downtown as shop displays come alive with elves, Santa, and other holiday characters.
Festive Eats and Treats
Warm up with holiday treats at The Holiday Hangout atop the Crescent Hotel, open daily (Nov. 29–Dec. 31 ) for cocktails, cocoa, and seasonal snacks. Or join the Hot Cocoa and Cookie Crawl (Dec. 20 ) to sip and savor your way through downtown.
Celebrate the Season with Meaning
Give back while enjoying festive experiences:
- The 57th Annual Silver Tea (Dec. 5 ) is a chance to indulge in tea and treats while supporting a local charity, “Back Our Kids.”
- Join the community for Home for the Holidays (Dec. 13 ) , a concert benefitting the local food bank.
Eureka Springs truly comes alive during the holidays, offering visitors and locals alike an unforgettable blend of charm, tradition, and festive fun. Whether you’re shopping for unique gifts, enjoying the magic of live music and performances, or soaking in the twinkle of Christmas lights, there’s no better place to experience the joy of the season. Plan your holiday adventure today and let Eureka Springs be your destination for festive cheer!
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