Your go-to resource for holiday fun in Jacksonville is here! Explore our guide for all the festive events and activities. From Jacksonville regulars to first-time tourists, this guide highlights the season's top events.
One of the highlights of the season is the Nutcracker Magical Christmas Ballet, a mesmerizing performance that brings the classic holiday tale to life with enchanting music and stunning choreography. Also, the Jacksonville Christmas Parade offers a delightful display of floats, music, and holiday cheer, bringing the community together to celebrate the season. And definitely don't forget the Festival of Trees, where beautifully decorated trees create a picturesque holiday wonderland. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Top Holiday Events In and Around Jacksonville
- Nutcracker Magical Christmas Ballet (Little Rock)
- Jacksonville Christmas Parade
- Festival of Trees (Little Rock)
- Tree Lighting Ceremony at Garvan Woodland Gardens (Hot Springs)
- Mistletoe Kisses Market (Hot Springs)
- Holiday High Tea-Garvan Woodland Gardens (Hot Springs)
- Cabot’s Celebrate the Season Holiday Shopping Event (Cabot)
- Sherwood’s Trail of Lights (Sherwood)
See these and even more events listed below!
Jacksonville Holiday Light Displays
Tree Lighting Ceremony at Garvan Woodland Gardens
What to Expect:
Illuminated garden with themed displays and interactive elements.
Description:
The Tree Lighting Ceremony at Garvan Woodland Gardens is a festive event where the garden is illuminated with millions of lights, featuring various themed displays and interactive elements. The ceremony includes a tree lighting ceremony and offers a beautiful and festive atmosphere for visitors.
Where: Hot Springs | More Info: Tree Lighting Ceremony at Garvan Woodland Gardens
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-thru holiday light display located at the Sherwood Sports Complex, featuring over a mile of spectacular lights. 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
Jacksonville Holiday Markets and Shopping
Mistletoe Kisses Market
What to Expect:
Unique holiday shopping experience with live music and family activities.
Description:
The Mistletoe Kisses Market at the Hot Springs Convention Center offers a weekend full of shopping and fun. Featuring unique vendors, holiday décor, and perfect gifts, this event is a great place to find unique items for your loved ones. Enjoy live music, food, and family activities, including a Ladies' Night with complimentary shopper's bags and signature drinks.
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 vendor spaces with holiday specials, gift items, and delicious food. The event includes live Christmas music, amazing 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
Jacksonville Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Festival of Trees
What to Expect:
Comprehensive support services for patients through transportation, lodging, financial, emotional, and nutritional counseling.
Description:
CARTI's 48th Annual Festival of Trees is a 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.
Where: Little Rock | More Info: Festival of Trees
Nutcracker Magical Christmas Ballet
What to Expect:
International ballet performance with local children and elaborate sets.
Description:
Nutcracker Magical Christmas Ballet features an international all-star cast blending world-class ballet with whimsical puppets, lavish costumes, and stunning acrobatics, set to Tchaikovsky's timeless score.
Where: Little Rock | More Info: Nutcracker Magical Christmas Ballet
Jacksonville Other Holiday Activities
Jacksonville Christmas Parade
What to Expect:
Decorated floats and festive guest appearances.
Description:
The Jacksonville Christmas Parade on December 7, 2024, features decorated floats, Santa, marching bands, dance groups, and the fire department. Admission is free, and float entry fees are $25 with awards in several categories.
Where: Jacksonville | More Info: Jacksonville Christmas Parade
Holiday High Tea-Garvan Woodland Gardens
What to Expect:
Elegant tea service in a picturesque botanical garden setting.
Description:
Garvan Woodland Gardens' Holiday High Tea offers a sophisticated and serene setting for guests to indulge in a delightful afternoon of tea, finger sandwiches, and sweet treats amidst the garden's beautiful landscapes.
Where: Hot Springs | More Info: Holiday High Tea-Garvan Woodland Gardens
Festive Fun in Nearby Cities!
Discover Holiday events in hundreds of cities worldwide. Check out these nearby locations for more festive fun!
- Sherwood (7 miles)
- Cabot (9 miles)
- North Little Rock (11 miles)
- Little Rock (13 miles)
- Conway (24 miles)
- Searcy (34 miles)
- Benton (34 miles)
- Pine Bluff (44 miles)