December is full of merriment and cheer! Whether it’s a musical performance, a theatrical play or a Santa visit, there is much to see and do this time of year. Here are a few highlights that we think will have you in the holiday spirit this month.

 

Festival of Trees—Thru Dec. 6

Get into the spirit of the season with a series of exciting holiday events benefiting Mount Sequoyah. This year's festival promises a dazzling display of holiday cheer, featuring locally sponsored trees designed and created by talented artisans and designers. Find the full schedule of events online. Millar Lodge, Mount Sequoyah Center. Fayetteville. www.mountsequoyah.org

 

Holiday Express Pajama Train—Thru Dec. 21

All aboard the Arkansas & Missouri Railroad Holiday Express Pajama Train. This 45 minute-excursion is a holiday delight for the whole family. Enjoy hot cocoa, cookies, music and a visit with Santa. Train will run on select dates through Dec. 21 from the Springdale depot to Johnson. www.amtrainrides.com

 

Winter Nights—Thru Dec. 21

Make holiday traditions in downtown Fayetteville while enjoying the holiday lights and decorations with a reserved firepit or dome. This festive, family-friendly holiday bar and gathering space offers both indoor and outdoor areas decked in holly and ready for merry-making. Events and activities catered to both children and adults are offered nightly — from trivia, karaoke and live music, to family-friendly craft, movie and story nights. Reserve online or walk-ins are also welcome. Walton Arts Center. Fayetteville. www.waltonartscenter.org

 

A Christmas Carol—Thru Dec. 24

Enjoy this Northwest Arkansas family tradition presented by TheatreSquared. Three spirits come to visit the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge and take him on a fantastic journey through his past, present and future. But will it be enough to save him? TheatreSquared. Fayetteville. www.theatre2.org

 

Christmas in Eureka Springs: Hometown Christmas—Thru Dec. 29

Experience the enchanting charm of this Victorian Village as it is transformed into a winter wonderland where holiday spirit thrives around every corner. Events include a Home Decorating Contest, Window Decorating Contest, a Drive-Through Light Display at the Great Passion Play Grounds, a Snow Train Village display, various holiday concerts, Christmas Movies at The Aud, various holiday and craft shopping markets, Santa in the Park, a Hot Cocoa Crawl, parades, Candy Cane Hunt (like an Easter Egg Hunt), and much more. Visit website for a complete listing of events. All around town. Eureka Springs. www.christmasineureka.com

 

Christmastime at the Crescent Hotel—Thru Dec 31

Experience the holiday magic as this iconic hotel is transformed into a festive wonderland. In additional to the holiday lights and Christmas Tree Forest on display, other special events include: Breakfast with Santa on Dec. 8, 10 a.m.; Green Eggs & Grinch Breakfast on Dec. 14, 10 a.m.; Gingerbread House Making on Dec. 14-16 & 26-28; 4th Annual Teddy Bear Tea on Dec. 15; Santa’s Mountain Village on Dec. 14 & 15; Candy Cane Hunt on Dec. 21 at 3 p.m.; and Sleigh Rides & Stories by the Fireplace on Fridays and Saturdays in Dec. from 5 to 7 p.m. Crescent Hotel. Eureka Springs. www.crescent-hotel.com/christmas

 

The Light Show NWA—Thru Dec. 31

This dazzling, drive-through attraction provides a unique entertainment option for individuals looking to enjoy an immersive visual spectacle from the comfort of their vehicle. The show features themed displays with synchronized music lights and innovative designs that change annually to keep the experience fresh and exciting for return visitors. Washington County Fairgrounds. Fayetteville. www.thelightshownwa.com

 

Lights of the Ozarks—Thru Jan. 1

Lights will illuminate the downtown square each evening from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. Along with the dazzling display of twinkling lights, there will be winter treats, hot cocoa, festive music and more. Downtown Fayetteville Square. www.experiencefayetteville.com

 

Holiday Market—Dec. 2 thru 22

This annual market brings artists together to sell their arts and crafts to the public for the holiday season. Community Creative Center. Fayetteville. www.communitycreativecenter.org

 

Jingle Mingle—Dec. 5

A gathering giving scholarship recipients and supporters a chance to mix and mingle. The event also serves as a fundraiser where many individuals make their end-of-year gifts to support scholarships. Event is from 6 to 9 p.m. Heroncrest Event Center. Elm Springs. www.spsfnwa.org

 

The Lights of the Ozarks Parade—Dec. 5

This holiday parade will kick off at 6:30 p.m. and travel its traditional route through downtown. Downtown Fayetteville Square. www.experiencefayetteville.com

 

Christmas at Peel Museum—Dec. 6

Explore the decked halls of the mansion, take in seasonal music from Northwest Arkansas talent, and get your bids in for unique experience packages featuring products and services from local businesses. Event is from 6 to 9 p.m. Peel Museum & Botanical Garden. Bentonville. www.peelcompton.org

 

Christmas Parade of Lights—Dec. 6

A magical evening where the streets of downtown are lit up with festive floats, music and cheer. This year’s parade theme is “A Boardgame Christmas.” This family-friendly parade begins at 6 p.m. Downtown Eureka Springs. www.christmasineureka.com

 

International Hot Cocoa Crawl—Dec. 6

This ticketed event takes you through a sipping tour of participating establishments’ hot beverages. Each ticket also includes a free 2024 International Hot Cocoa Crawl mug. Event is from 5 to 8 p.m. Downtown Springdale. www.downtownspringdale.org

 

Rogers Christmas Parade—Dec. 6

This parade by the Rotary Clubs of Rogers will follow its traditional route, showing a vibrant holiday atmosphere beginning at 6:30 p.m. Downtown Rogers. www.rogersar.gov

 

Christmas Movies at The Aud—Dec. 6 thru 20

All movies begin at 7:30 p.m. Upcoming showings include Dec. 6: The Year Without a Santa Claus; Dec. 7: The Man Who Invented Christmas; Dec. 14: Daddy’s Home 2; and Dec. 20: The Santa Claus. The Auditorium. Eureka Springs. www.theaud.org

 

Winter Glow—Dec. 6-8, 13-15 & 20-22

Sip and stroll your way through lit paths of the garden surrounded by the winter glow of luminarias and artistic lighting installations. Timed tickets will allow up to 100 family units per hour to enjoy the garden from 5:30 to 9 p.m. each Friday, Saturday and Sunday in the weeks before Christmas. Botanical Gardens of the Ozarks. Fayetteville. www.bgozarks.org

 

Christmas in Cave—Dec. 7

This 3rd annual holiday craft market features more than 60 local vendors, food trucks and Santa. Bring a nonperishable item to donate to the local food pantries. Event is from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., rain or shine. Main Street. Cave Springs. www.cavespringsar.gov

 

Freedom Frosty 5K Run—Dec. 7

Bentonville partners with Camp Alliance to provide resources directly to our veterans, military, and families in support of readiness and resiliency programs. Race begins at 8 a.m. Lawrence Plaza. Bentonville. www.runbentonville.com

 

Gravette Christmas Parade—Dec. 7

Join in for the annual parade on Main Street. Before the parade, the Gravette Public Library will host an open house. After the parade, the Gravette Historical Museum will have hot chocolate, cookies and visits with Santa at the historic Kindley House. Plus, cast your vote in the annual police vs. fire chili cook-off. Festivities begin at 4 p.m. with the parade at 4:30 p.m. Downtown Gravette. www.gravettear.com

 

Light Up Siloam Christmas Parade—Dec. 7

Join in for this annual holiday celebration and Christmas parade. This year’s parade is themed “Toyland!” Parade will step off at 5:30 p.m. on Tulsa St. The lighting of the downtown will take place as the parade rolls into Jefferson/Maxwell. Downtown Siloam Springs. www.discoversiloam.com

 

Lowell Christmas Festivities & Parade—Dec. 7

A full day of activities concluding with the Night-Time Santa Parade beginning at 6 p.m. This year’s parade is themed “Christmas with the Elves.” Events throughout the day include a holiday market and book sale, pictures with Santa, a live nativity, Rudolph’s craft workshop, a pancake supper, music and more. Downtown Lowell. www.discoverlowell.org

 

Santa Drop—Dec. 7

Bring the family and watch Santa skydive at this free event. Guests will also be able to meet with Santa and take photos. Event is from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Arkansas Air & Military Museum. Fayetteville. www.arkansasairandmilitary.com

 

SantaCon NWA—Dec. 7

A holiday celebration with 100% of the proceeds benefiting Sharing & Caring of Benton County. All those ages 21 and up are invited to eat, drink, shop and be merry. Wear your best holiday garb and visit participating establishments for specialty food and drinks for event ticket holders only. Event is from 1 to 7 p.m. with an after party to follow. Downtown Bentonville Square. More information on Facebook.

 

Sips on the Bricks: Holiday Edition—Dec. 7

Ring in the season with Sips on the Bricks. This local holiday tradition is coming back as a holiday-themed costume contest, poker run and shop-local extravaganza. Downtown Rogers. www.rogerslowell.com

 

A Very SoNA Christmas—Dec. 7

Come enjoy a mix of sacred and secular holiday favorites with special guests, including the Symphony of Northwest Arkansas Singers and area high school and collegiate choruses. Performances at 2 and 7:30 p.m. Baum Walker Hall, Walton Arts Center. Fayetteville. www.sonamusic.org

 

Winter Wonderland—Dec. 7

This is a free, fun holiday equine experience. Get a picture with Santa, ride horses, make ornaments, sip hot cocoa and get some horse hugs. Event is from 1 to 4 p.m. 5920 S. Bellview Road. Rogers. www.equestrianbridges.org

 

Beer & Carols—Dec. 8

Come sip and support the Northwest Arkansas Children’s Shelter at this annual Christmas concert produced by Beer & Hymns, a nonprofit that raises funds for local charities. Enjoy sing-along carols and seasonal hits led by the Beer & Hymns band. All ages are welcome. Wear an ugly sweater or tacky holiday outfit for a chance to win prizes. There will be a Group Prize, Adult Prize and Kid’s Prize awarded. Event begins at 5 p.m. Metroplex Event Center. Rogers. www.beerandhymns.com

 

Holiday Tour of Homes—Dec. 8

A fundraiser for the Fayetteville High School girls’ varsity dance team to go to Nationals in Orlando, this tour includes nine homes decorated for the Christmas season including door prizes. Event is from 1 to 6 p.m. Various homes throughout Fayetteville. www.gofan.co/event/1963518?schoolId=AR16990

 

Ozark Chorale Christmas Show—Dec. 8

Join in for this holiday concert from 7 to 8 p.m. The Auditorium. Eureka Springs. www.theaud.org

 

SoNA’s The Snowman: A Family Concert—Dec. 8

Join in on a special screening of The Snowman, based on Raymond Briggs’ classic children’s book, with the original score performed live by SoNA. Following the screening, acclaimed Music Director Paul Haas will lead the audience in a sing-along of other holiday favorites. Show begins at 2 p.m. Baum Walker Hall, Walton Arts Center. Fayetteville. www.sonamusic.org

 

Winter Dreams Tour of Homes—Dec. 8

This event is a self-guided tour featuring beautifully decorated homes throughout Benton and Washington counties festively decorated for the holiday season. Tour is from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and benefits the missions of the Junior League of Northwest Arkansas. Various locations throughout Northwest Arkansas. igfn.us/l/37zw96

 

Peel After Hours: Christmas Edition—Dec. 12

Looking for the perfect backdrop for your family Christmas photos? Peel Museum & Botanical Garden will be open late, and all are welcome to take a walk through the decorated garden and museum as well as shop for locally made gifts at the museum store. This free event will be from 3 to 7 p.m. Peel Museum & Botanical Garden. Bentonville. www.peelcompton.org

 

Festival of Stars—Dec. 13

This Arkansas Children’s event helps families create a holiday experience they may not otherwise be able to provide for their hospitalized children. Thanks to your support, the Snowflake Shoppe — a special “store” held during the holidays at Arkansas Children’s Hospital and Arkansas Children’s Northwest — will be stocked so parents and caregivers can choose several gifts for their hospitalized child and his or her sibling(s) at no cost. Toys can be dropped off for donation from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Arkansas Children’s Northwest. Springdale. www.archildrens.org

 

Merry and Bright’s Christmas Celebration—Dec. 13

A women’s event hosted each year showing this nonprofit’s passion for strengthening organizations that support women in need, specifically those enslaved in human trafficking. Proceeds will go toward HUB of Hope NWA. Event is from 6 to 9 p.m. and includes dinner, entertainment, holiday music and gifts. The Grand at Willow Springs. Prairie Grove. www.renewinghopemandb.com

 

Bentonville Christmas Parade—Dec. 14

Families line up for a classic holiday tradition. Parade begins at 6 p.m. and follows the route down Main Street and around the square. Downtown Bentonville. www.downtownbentonville.org

 

Bentonville Holiday Market—Dec. 14

Find the perfect gifts from great local makers. Event takes place before the Bentonville Christmas parade for guests to shop then head over to watch the parade. Shopping is from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Meteor Guitar Gallery. Bentonville. www.bentonvillemarket.com

 

Break the Ice—Dec. 14

Join the Community Cohesion Project for a night of dancing, great food and fun for the Northwest Arkansas community. The Momentary. Bentonville. www.nwaccp.org

 

Holiday Festival—Dec. 14

Join Champions for Kids for a fabulously fun family event for you, your team, your family, and children or grandchildren ages 4 and up. The evening will include dinner, elf games, cookie decorating, Christmas crafts, prizes and more. Event is from 5 to 9 p.m. Northwest Arkansas Convention Center. Springdale. www.championsforkids.org

 

Prairie Grove Cocoa Crawl—Dec. 14

Visit any of the Crawl Stops to purchase your mug for $5 at the start of the crawl at 4 p.m. Quantities are limited. Your mug will act as a ticket to visit the different stops and sample their unique cocoa. Event is from 4 to 6 p.m. Downtown Prairie Grove. www.pgchamber.com

 

Rogers Historical Museum Holiday Open House—Dec. 14

Join in for this year’s event featuring guided tours of the 1895 Hawkins House, holiday crafts, refreshments, and of course, Santa Claus. Event is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Rogers Historical Museum. www.rogershistoricalmuseum.org

 

White Elephant 5K—Dec. 14

This event includes Lights of the Ozarks, holiday music, hot cocoa and “White Elephant” gifts. The 5K and 1-mile road run/walk races are sure to be jolly. Downtown Fayetteville Square. www.fayetteville-ar.gov

 

MusicWorks Brass Band Holiday Concert—Dec. 15

Join in this spectacular holiday concert. Bring your family and a non-perishable food item to donate to our local food bank. The concert begins at 3 p.m. The Auditorium. Eureka Springs. www.theaud.org

 

Eureka Springs Hot Cocoa Crawl—Dec. 20

Get your commemorative Eureka Springs Cocoa Crawl mug and stroll through downtown from 5 to 7 p.m., enjoying various cocoas and delicious treats along the way. Downtown Eureka Springs. www.visiteurekasprings.com

 

The Nutcracker—Dec. 20 & 21

Join the NWA Conservatory of Classical Ballet for an enchanting evening with Clara as she receives her most treasured Christmas gift, a Nutcracker doll. Arend Arts Center, Bentonville High School. www.nwaballet.com

 

The Little Craft Show—Dec. 21

An unforgettable winter market featuring many of your favorite local makers. Event is from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fayetteville Town Center. www.thelittlecraftshow.com

 

A Bash with a Splash—Dec. 31

Eureka Springs’ New Years Celebration will begin at 7 p.m. There will be a carnival style parade, the JukeBoxx Party Band live in Basin Park with a laser light show, and the epic countdown and ball drop to ring in the new year. Downtown Eureka Springs. www.christmasineureka.com

 

New Year’s Eve—Dec. 31

Ring in the new year with music and dancing at this fun-filled event including live music, delicious food, and a champagne toast at midnight. Event is from 8 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Ledger. Bentonville. www.downtownbentonville.org

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Zing into the New Year—Dec. 31

Inspired by the theme of butterflies and transformation, this family-friendly event is packed with hands-on activities, interactive fun, and a confetti-filled countdown to ring in the New Year. Bring your loved ones and enjoy a day of play, exploration, and celebration. Event is from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Scott Family Amazeum. www.amazeum.org