This is our last local event roundup of the year, and we’re making it count in festive fashion. Let’s get into it.
Thursday, Dec. 19
Trailer Park Christmas at Camp Taco // Home is where you park it. Now for the third year, the East Village restaurant is marking the holiday season with a day of holiday menu specials, DIY trucker hats, an outdoor screening of “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” and more. Stop by 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. Learn more here.
“The Brutalist” at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts // As part of the Arkansas Cinema Society’s Sneak Series, attendees will be among the first to see this film following a European architect trying to rebuild his life in America after the war. The film stars Adrien Brody, Felicity Jones and Guy Pearce and is already getting Oscar buzz. Showtime is 6 p.m. Reservations are closed, but tickets will be available at the door. Learn more here.
Friday, Dec. 20
Third Friday Art Walk in Argenta // This monthly walk invites you to stroll through the Argenta Arts District’s lineup of special exhibits and events. Highlights include the Arkansas Pastel Society‘s biennial juried show at Acansa Gallery, pet photos with Santa at Argenta Library and an open studio with Lee Lee Arts + Design and Bang-Up Betty. The Art Walk starts at 5 p.m. Learn more here.
Saturday, Dec. 21
Ugly Sweater Race at Two Rivers Park // Avert thine eyes or bask in the ugly glory — it’s runner’s choice. Created by the team behind the Little Rock Marathon, this 5K is back and encourages runners to show up in their holiday worst in exchange for a custom finisher’s medal and some silly fun. Go time is 9 a.m. Learn more here. Bonus: Still not enough action for you? Jump into the Raid the Rock Adventure Race.
Keep moving: Winter Runs to Keep You on Your Toes
Saturday Shop Vintage Market at The Bernice Garden // Over in SoMa, the vintage vibes are back at Bernice in this jolly edition of its recurring neighborhood event. Expect vendors with throwback fashions, accessories and art. Come shop 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Learn more here.
Kris Allen at The Reserve // One of central Arkansas’ favorites is headed home. At this intimate concert inside Argenta’s new coworking space, the “American Idol” winner will play Christmas classics and some of his latest album. Showtime is 7:30 p.m. Learn more here.
Thursday – Saturday, Dec. 19-21
“Who’s Holiday!” at The Studio Theatre // It’s not all cocoa and carols in Whoville. In this one-weekend-only comedy just for grownups, Cindy Lou Who tells her side of the story and the wild life she’s led since her first run-in with the Grinch. Showtime is 7:30 p.m. each night. Learn more here.
Classic Movies at Ron Robinson Theater // The popcorn is flowing once again at the CALS theater in the River Market. Up first is “Elf” on Thursday at 7 p.m., then a triple feature on Saturday with “Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas” at 12:30 p.m., “The Sound of Music” at 2:30 p.m. and “It’s a Wonderful Life” at 7 p.m. And don’t forget about the performance from master illusionist Jonathan Erlandson on Friday at 8 p.m. Learn more here.
Christmas Karaoke Parties in the Metro // It seems karaoke is the new ugly sweater, and you won’t find any complaints here. There’s The Filling Station at 6 p.m. Thursday, Sterling Market at 7 p.m. Friday and The Rail Yard at 7 p.m. Saturday. Yes, there will be liquid courage, and yes, you should still wear the sweater.
Friday & Saturday, Dec. 20 & 21
North Pole Nights at War Memorial Stadium // The field lights are looking a little more twinkly this weekend. For two nights, WMS will be filled with festivities like holiday music, photo opps with Santa, cocoa and more, all capped off with an al fresco film screening — “Elf” on Friday and “The Polar Express” on Saturday. Gates open at 6 p.m. both nights. Learn more here. Plus, they’ll be accepting nonperishable food items for the Arkansas Foodbank. More on that here.
Sunday, Dec. 22
White Water Winter Market at The White Water Tavern // Well, isn’t this merry? The Tavern is helping you cross those last few names off your list with this pop-up featuring local artists and makers. Come shop 2-6 p.m. Learn more here.
Thursday – Sunday, Dec. 19-22
“A Merrier Motown Christmas” at the Arkansas Repertory Theatre // There’s caroling with friends, and then there’s being serenaded by some of the best voices in the city. Back for a second year, Bijoux, Nygel Robinson, Tawanna Campbell and more will take the stage with fresh arrangements inspired by Motown’s best. Showtime is 7 p.m. each night and 2 p.m. Saturday. Learn more here.
Next up on the stage: Arkansas Repertory Theatre Announces 2025 Season
Friday – Sunday, Dec. 20-22
“Home for the Holidays” at the Robinson Center // Ho ho ho, ASO. The Arkansas Symphony Orchestra is bringing merriment to the masses with the return of this annual concert. The production will showcase holiday favorites like “The First Noel” and “Joy to the World,” as well as the voices of Arkansas Talent contest winners Marcus Murphy and Kim Qualls. Show up early to get in on arts and crafts in the lobby, or donate an instrument to ASO’s youth programs. You have three chances to catch the show: 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, or 3 p.m. Sunday. Learn more here.
Want even more merry? Pour some egg nog and peruse our holiday guides:
- 12 Ways to Have the Perfect Little Rock Christmas
- Where to See Holiday Lights in Central Arkansas
- Happy Holi-Graze: How to Make a Quintessentially Little Rock Brunch Spread
- Soirée Holiday Gift Guides: Part I & Part II
- Where to Watch Classic Christmas Movies in Little Rock
- Where to See Santa Claus in Little Rock
- Where to Cut Your Own Christmas Tree
- The Best Shops for Your Last-Minute Stocking Stuffers