We're in the home stretch of the holiday season, and Little Rock has never been so merry. Let's get into it.
COVID forecast: Community level is low. Click here to get a recent by-the-numbers report, and click here for a simplified version of what it means for how to go out into the city safely and responsibly.
Friday, Dec. 16
Third Friday Art Walk in Argenta // Let's go on a walk, everybody. Lace up your comfy shoes because this monthly walk invites you to stroll through the Argenta Arts District’s lineup of special exhibits and events. Highlights include a merry market at The Hub, a fiber art exhibit at Laman Library and a Bri Peterson pop-up at Bang-Up Betty. The Art Walk starts at 5 p.m. Learn more here.
Night Market at Me & McGee Market // Keep the merriment going. This NLR market is getting festive in its second to last weekend of the season. Expect lights, food trucks and all the local goods you love about the market. Be there 6-8 p.m. Learn more here.
Saturday, Dec. 17
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 encouraging 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.
Now that your blood's pumping: Where to Cut Your Own Christmas Tree in Central Arkansas
A Very Peachy Christmas at Just Peachy // Welcome to a winter wonderland unlike any other. Due to popular demand, these balloon party people are bringing back their walk-thru holiday display, but they're making it bigger and better to create "brand new magical balloonscapes." Pro tip: Bring your selfie stick. It's open 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Learn more here.
Holiday Sip & Shop at Rusty Tractor Vineyards // Festivities with a view. Get down on the farm, er, vineyard, with a day of perusing goods from local artisans and tasting wines and spirits from around the world. Guests will shop in time slots from noon - 6 p.m. Learn more here.
Funland Holiday Express at Funland Park // Grab your favorite scarf and a Santa hat while you're at it. The NLR park is busting out the cookies and milk, holiday lights, Christmas train and crafts. We've got our eye on the Christmas carousel. The fun runs 1-3 p.m. Learn more here.
Speaking of the big guy: Where to See Santa Claus in Little Rock
Holiday Concert at Nexus Coffee & Creative // We all know the best way to spread Christmas cheer, right? Sing loud for all to hear with a lineup of local musicians, plus ugly sweaters and a holiday menu. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Learn more here. Bonus: More of a movie connoisseur? Stop by Thursday for Christmas movie trivia.
Christmas Karaoke at Stickyz Rock 'N' Roll Chicken Shack // Keep those golden vocal pipes warm. This annual event is always a good time, with proceeds benefiting The Van. Oh, and don’t forget the ridiculous Christmas outfits. The drummer boy beats drop at 7 p.m. Learn more here.
Thursday - Saturday, Dec. 15-17
"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.
Sunday, Dec. 18
Forever Thrifted: Holiday Market at The Hall // Now this is some first-rate, secondhand goodness. Local thrift pro La Rosa Antigua is pulling out all the stops for a very merry edition of this monthly market complete with vintage vendors, games, music, art, food trucks, drinks and more. Check it out 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Learn more here.
Meet the man behind La Rosa: Maximiliano Dominguez is Coming Up Roses
Enchanted Carriage Rides at The Castle on Stagecoach // Let's add a little more magic to the weekend, shall we? Here your littles can enjoy holiday storytime, sing-alongs and a carriage ride on the castle grounds with the "Frozen" sisters. The enchantment starts at 1 p.m. Learn more here.
Holiday Music at the Arsenal at the MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History // If you're not the caroling type, but still enjoy the sounds, head to MacArthur Park and let the experts show you how it's done. This free concert is in its 11th year and features pianists and vocalists from Margaret Wyatt's Piano and Vocal Studio. The music starts at 2 p.m. Learn more here.
Grand Menorah Lighting at 520 Bowman Road // Bring on the gelt! The annual Chanukah ceremony is back and it's full of holiday music, hot latkes, doughnuts and, yes, gelt. The evening begins at 5 p.m. Learn more here.
Shine on: Where to See Holiday Lights in Central Arkansas
Friday - Sunday, Dec. 16-18
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 event. The production will showcase holiday favorites like "We Need a Little Christmas" and "Sleigh Ride," plus some of your favorite local soloists and pre-concert festivities in the lobby. You have three chances to catch the show: 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 3 p.m. Sunday. Learn more here.
More holiday magic: 12 Ways to Have an Iconic Little Rock Christmas
'Tis the season for holiday open houses! Check out these around town:
And don't forget the ugly sweater parties:
Or these classic holiday movies screening across the city:
- "How the Grinch Stole Christmas"
- "It’s a Wonderful Life"
- "The Polar Express"
Get the full breakdown here: Where to Watch Classic Christmas Movies in Little Rock
