Welcome to your ultimate guide for the holidays in Conway! Explore the best festive events and attractions. Whether you call Conway home or are just passing through, this guide unlocks the city's seasonal secrets.
One highlight of the holiday season is the Conway Christmas Parade, a cherished local tradition showcasing colorful floats and community spirit. Another delightful option is the Nutcracker Spectacular with the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra, where enchanting performances bring this classic ballet to life. And the whimsical production of How the Grinch Stole Christmas at the Robinson Center is something you definitely don't want to miss. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Top Holiday Events In and Around Conway
- Conway Christmas Parade
- Nutcracker Spectacular with Arkansas Symphony Orchestra (Little Rock)
- How the Grinch Stole Christmas at the Robinson Center (Little Rock)
- Little Rock Zoo GloWild (Little Rock)
- Festival of Trees (Little Rock)
- Conway Bella Rustina Modern Vintage Market
- A Christmas Story: The Musical-Argenta Contemporary Theater (Little Rock)
- Tux ‘n Trees Gala (Little Rock)
- Sugarplum Ball (Little Rock)
- See the lights at the Arkansas State Capitol (Little Rock)
See these and even more events listed below!
Conway Holiday Light Displays
Tree Lighting Ceremony at Garvan Woodland Gardens
What to Expect:
Illuminated tree lighting in a botanical garden setting.
Description:
Garvan Woodland Gardens presents a stunning Tree Lighting Ceremony, featuring beautifully illuminated trees and festive decorations amidst the garden's serene natural beauty.
Where: Hot Springs | More Info: Tree Lighting Ceremony at Garvan Woodland Gardens
Harbor’s Lighting Ceremony at Mountain Harbor Lodge
What to Expect:
Live music and Santa's arrival via hayride wagon.
Description:
Join us at Mountain Harbor Lodge for a festive lighting ceremony featuring live music, free hayrides to view Christmas lights, free cookies, hot cocoa, and cider. Enjoy Christmas story reading by Mrs. Claus and the arrival of Santa via hayride wagon to turn on all the lights of Harbor.
Where: Mount Ida | More Info: Harbor’s Lighting Ceremony at Mountain Harbor Lodge
Little Rock Zoo GloWild
What to Expect:
Interactive light festival with handcrafted silk-covered lanterns.
Description:
The Little Rock Zoo's GloWild features over 45 nights of spectacular light displays, including three new sections: Mystical Marvels, Animal Kingdom, and Under the Sea. This event showcases handcrafted silk-covered lanterns, offering an immersive experience for all ages.
Where: Little Rock | More Info: Little Rock Zoo GloWild
Little Rock Zoo New Year’s Gloeing Eve
What to Expect:
Holiday celebration with interactive light displays and family-friendly activities.
Description:
The Little Rock Zoo's New Year's Eve celebration features spectacular light displays, including the Mystical Marvels, Animal Kingdom, and Under the Sea sections, with special events like Sensory Night and the New Year's Eve Party.
Where: Little Rock | More Info: Little Rock Zoo New Year’s Gloeing Eve
Sherwood’s Trail of Lights
What to Expect:
Free admission with optional donations and candy cane giveaways.
Description:
Sherwood’s Trail of Lights is a drive-through holiday event featuring over a mile of spectacular lights. The trail is located at the Sherwood Sports Complex, 420 Dee Jay Hudson Drive, and is open from 6-9:30 PM daily from December 1 to 30. Admission is free, with donations accepted to fund future displays and support local food pantries. Everyone receives a complimentary candy cane.
Where: Sherwood | More Info: Sherwood’s Trail of Lights
See the lights at the Arkansas State Capitol
What to Expect:
Extended holiday hours and unique holiday gifts available.
Description:
The Arkansas State Capitol Christmas Lighting Ceremony features live music, fireworks, and Christmas decorations, including a Fallen Heroes Holiday Tree and Santa's workshop.
Where: Little Rock | More Info: See the lights at the Arkansas State Capitol
Conway Holiday Markets and Shopping
Conway Bella Rustina Modern Vintage Market
What to Expect:
Unique blend of vintage and handmade items from various states.
Description:
The Bella Rustina Modern Vintage Market in Conway, Arkansas, features 300 booths with vintage, vintage-inspired, and handmade items from multiple states. The event includes multiple food trucks and snack options, offering a diverse shopping experience.
Where: Conway | More Info: Conway Bella Rustina Modern Vintage Market
Mistletoe Kisses Market
What to Expect:
Unique shopping experience with local artisans and activities.
Description:
The Mistletoe Kisses Market is a weekend shopping event featuring a diverse array of vendors selling handmade crafts, unique gifts, and seasonal items. Enjoy music, food, and various activities while supporting local artisans and a great cause.
Where: Hot Springs | More Info: Mistletoe Kisses Market
Cabot’s Celebrate the Season Holiday Shopping Event
What to Expect:
Free photos with Santa and multiple door prize giveaways.
Description:
Cabot’s Celebrate the Season is a holiday shopping event featuring over 100 local vendors offering unique gifts, holiday specials, and delicious food. The event includes live Christmas music, photo opportunities, and Santa visits. Shoppers are encouraged to donate three non-perishable food items in lieu of a ticket purchase, with all donations going to Cabot Public Schools.
Where: Cabot | More Info: Cabot’s Celebrate the Season Holiday Shopping Event
Conway Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Pictures with Santa
What to Expect:
Interactive holiday experience with Santa.
Description:
Meet Santa Claus in a festive setting with holiday activities and photo opportunities.
Where: Conway | More Info: Pictures with Santa
How the Grinch Stole Christmas at the Robinson Center
What to Expect:
Whimsical adaptation of Dr. Seuss' classic tale with live music and sets.
Description:
Dr. Seuss' HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS The Musical brings to life the classic tale of the Grinch, whose heart is two sizes too small, as he decides to steal Christmas from the holiday-loving Whos. Featuring hit songs like "You're A Mean One, Mr. Grinch" and "Welcome Christmas," this heart-warming holiday musical is directed by Matt August and choreographed by Bob Richard, based on the original choreography by John DeLuca. The show features magnificent sets and costumes inspired by Dr. Seuss' original illustrations, transporting audiences to the whimsical world of Whoville.
Where: Little Rock | More Info: How the Grinch Stole Christmas at the Robinson Center
Festival of Trees
What to Expect:
Father-daughter dance, fashion show, and black-tie gala.
Description:
CARTI's 48th Annual Festival of Trees is a beloved holiday event featuring a father-daughter dance, a New York Fashion Week-style runway show, and a black-tie gala with fine dining and live entertainment. Proceeds benefit CARTI's Patient Assistance Program, which provides comprehensive support services to reduce barriers to cancer treatment.
Where: Little Rock | More Info: Festival of Trees
Sugarplum Ball
What to Expect:
Elegant evening of dancing and dining in a storybook setting.
Description:
The Sugar Plum Ball is an elegant evening of dancing, dining, and tiaras, set in a storybook setting where little princesses and their Prince Charmings come together to create lasting memories.
Where: Little Rock | More Info: Sugarplum Ball
Festival of Fashion
What to Expect:
Grand tradition of New York City Fashion Week with Central Arkansas' chic boutiques.
Description:
The Festival of Fashion is a professional runway show in the grand tradition of New York City Fashion Week, featuring Central Arkansas' most chic boutiques.
Where: Little Rock | More Info: Festival of Fashion
Tux ‘n Trees Gala
What to Expect:
Elegant holiday gala with live and silent auctions.
Description:
Tux ‘n Trees Gala is a premier holiday event featuring fine dining, live entertainment, and dancing. The evening includes live and silent auctions, showcasing an elegant celebration of the holiday season.
Where: Little Rock | More Info: Tux ‘n Trees Gala
Land of the Sweets Nutcracker Tea at Robinson Performance Hall
What to Expect:
Exclusive performance of Clara and the Sugar Plum Fairy.
Description:
Land of the Sweets Nutcracker Tea at Robinson Performance Hall features teatime, activities, and an exclusive performance of Clara and the Sugar Plum Fairy.
Where: Little Rock | More Info: Land of the Sweets Nutcracker Tea at Robinson Performance Hall
Nutcracker Spectacular with Arkansas Symphony Orchestra
What to Expect:
World-class ballet performance with elaborate sets and costumes.
Description:
Ballet Arkansas presents Nutcracker Spectacular with the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra, featuring stunning choreography, live music, and dazzling costumes.
Where: Little Rock | More Info: Nutcracker Spectacular with Arkansas Symphony Orchestra
A Christmas Story: The Musical-Argenta Contemporary Theater
What to Expect:
Classic holiday tale with iconic scenes from the movie.
Description:
A Christmas Story: The Musical, set in 1940s Hohman, Indiana, follows 9-year-old Ralphie Parker's quest for an Official Red Ryder carbine-action 200-shot Range Model air rifle. The musical includes iconic scenes from the movie, such as Ralphie's friend Flick getting his tongue stuck to a flagpole and his brother Randy getting dressed in his snowsuit. This production is sponsored by various organizations and individuals.
Where: Little Rock | More Info: A Christmas Story: The Musical-Argenta Contemporary Theater
Conway Other Holiday Activities
Conway Christmas Parade
What to Expect:
Cash prizes awarded for best float entries.
Description:
The Conway Christmas Parade is a festive event featuring floats, cash prizes for best entries, and a fun community celebration.
Where: Conway | More Info: Conway Christmas Parade
Very Merry Maumelle Christmas in the Park
What to Expect:
Heartwarming community events with festive activities.
Description:
Celebrate the holiday season with Very Merry Maumelle Christmas in the Park, featuring a Tree Lighting ceremony, children's activities, and warm beverages like coffee and hot cocoa.
Where: Maumelle | More Info: Very Merry Maumelle Christmas in the Park
2024 Ugly Sweater Race at Twin Rivers Park
What to Expect:
Unique holiday-themed 5K run with a virtual option and an Elf Dash.
Description:
The Ugly Sweater Race 5K is a fun and festive holiday event where participants wear their tackiest holiday sweaters while running or walking a 5K course at Two Rivers Park in Little Rock, AR. The event includes a virtual option and an Elf Dash for children under 10.
Where: Little Rock | More Info: 2024 Ugly Sweater Race at Twin Rivers Park
Wreath’s Across America at Little Rock National Cemetery
What to Expect:
Honoring veterans through wreath-laying ceremonies.
Description:
Wreaths Across America at Little Rock National Cemetery is a poignant tribute to honor veterans by laying remembrance wreaths on their graves and saying the name of each veteran aloud.
Where: Little Rock | More Info: Wreath’s Across America at Little Rock National Cemetery
Holiday High Tea-Garvan Woodland Gardens
What to Expect:
Elegant tea service amidst beautiful botanical gardens.
Description:
Garvan Woodland Gardens offers a delightful Holiday High Tea experience, featuring an array of teas, sweet and savory treats, and a serene garden setting.
Where: Hot Springs | More Info: Holiday High Tea-Garvan Woodland Gardens
Cabot 2024 Christmas Parade
What to Expect:
Community-driven holiday parade with decorated floats.
Description:
The Cabot 2024 Christmas Parade is a community event where local businesses and residents come together to decorate their windows and entrances with Christmas cheer. The parade will take place on December 14 at 5 p.m., and participants are required to register by December 3 with a $10 entry fee. The event is a cherished tradition that brings the community together during the holiday season.
Where: Cabot | More Info: Cabot 2024 Christmas Parade
Holiday Express/Pajama Train
What to Expect:
Scenic train ride with hot cocoa and cookies.
Description:
The Holiday Express/Pajama Train is a 45-minute excursion that offers a delightful holiday experience for young children and those young at heart. Departing from Van Buren and Springdale, passengers enjoy hot cocoa and cookies while traveling through the scenic Ozark Boston Mountains.
Where: Little Rock | More Info: Holiday Express/Pajama Train
Children’s “The Road to Bethlehem” Experience
What to Expect:
Interactive Christmas story with live animals.
Description:
At Marlsgate, children can engage with a classic Christmas story told on the staircase, followed by interactions with animals like Beau Peep the Sheep, Hee Haw the Jerusalem Donkey, and Nettie the Goat. The event includes cookies and hot chocolate, creating a memorable experience.
Where: Little Rock | More Info: Children’s “The Road to Bethlehem” Experience
Motley’s Christmas Tree Farm
What to Expect:
Unique tree selection and family-friendly activities.
Description:
Motley’s Christmas Tree Farm offers a wide variety of trees, including Carolina Sapphire, Leyland Cypress, and Fraser Fir. Visitors can choose their own tree to cut down or have it cut for them. The farm also features kid-friendly areas like pig races and a farm zoo, as well as a gift shop with holiday decorations and toys.
Where: Little Rock | More Info: Motley’s Christmas Tree Farm
Holiday Forest Christmas Tree Farm
What to Expect:
Freshly grown Fraser fir trees in a scenic farm setting.
Description:
Holiday Forest Christmas Tree Farm offers a variety of Fraser fir trees, expertly cared for to ensure freshness and quality. Visitors can explore the farm's picturesque landscape and choose the perfect tree for their holiday celebrations.
Where: Little Rock | More Info: Holiday Forest Christmas Tree Farm
Sherwood Christmas Parade
What to Expect:
Community-driven holiday parade with family-friendly activities.
Description:
The Sherwood Christmas Parade is a community event featuring a festive procession through downtown Sherwood, highlighting local organizations and businesses. The parade is part of Winter Fest, offering additional activities like holiday shopping, gingerbread house competitions, food trucks, and live entertainment.
Where: Sherwood | More Info: Sherwood Christmas Parade
Sherwood’s Winter Fest at City Hall Park
What to Expect:
Family-friendly holiday activities with festive entertainment.
Description:
Sherwood’s Winter Fest at City Hall Park features holiday shopping, gingerbread house competitions, food trucks, live entertainment, and the lighting of City Hall Park.
Where: Sherwood | More Info: Sherwood’s Winter Fest at City Hall Park
Holiday Tea at the Capitol Hotel
What to Expect:
Elegant holiday tea service in a historic hotel setting.
Description:
Savor the elegance of the Capitol Hotel with our Holiday Tea, featuring exquisite pastries and fine teas in a beautifully appointed setting.
Where: Little Rock | More Info: Holiday Tea at the Capitol Hotel
Sundays with Santa at the Capitol Hotel
What to Expect:
Holiday celebration with Santa Claus and festive activities.
Description:
Sundays with Santa at the Capitol Hotel offers a delightful holiday experience with Santa Claus, festive decorations, and special activities for children.
Where: Little Rock | More Info: Sundays with Santa at the Capitol Hotel
Beebe Christmas Parade
What to Expect:
Large-scale holiday parade with diverse floats and performers.
Description:
The Beebe Christmas Parade is a large-scale holiday event featuring over 100 floats, ATVs, horses, and vendors from across the state. Each year, a new theme is chosen, making the parade a unique and memorable experience. The event includes a variety of floats, marching bands, and costumed characters.
Where: Beebe | More Info: Beebe Christmas Parade
Jacksonville Christmas Parade
What to Expect:
Decorated floats and featured guest Santa.
Description:
The Jacksonville Christmas Parade features decorated floats, Santa, marching bands, dance groups, and the fire department. Admission is free, and float entry fees are $25 with awards given in several categories.
Where: Jacksonville | More Info: Jacksonville Christmas Parade
Festive Fun in Nearby Cities!
Discover Holiday events in hundreds of cities worldwide. Check out these nearby locations for more festive fun!
- Sherwood (23 miles)
- North Little Rock (24 miles)
- Jacksonville (24 miles)
- Little Rock (25 miles)
- Cabot (25 miles)
- Benton (37 miles)
- Russellville (41 miles)
- Searcy (41 miles)