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Late Fall Hikes in the Metro to Take ASAP

By
Jess Ardrey
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Temperatures have dropped, leaves are falling and our calendars are quickly filling up with holiday gatherings. It’s time to take a breather and head to one of these local trails.

 

West Summit Trail

In it for the views? We don’t blame you. At Pinnacle Mountain State Park, incredible scenes of Lake Maumelle, the Arkansas River Valley, the Ouachita Mountains and west Little Rock await at the top, but be prepared for a bit of a climb on this 1.5-mile route. More info here. 

 

East Summit Trail

If you’re hungry for a challenge, opt for the East. These Pinnacle hikers can expect 1.5 miles of much more actual rock climbing and crossing several boulder fields. It may not be for the faint of heart, but the payoff is huge. More info here.

 

Credit: Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage & Tourism

Rattlesnake Ridge

It’s pick your poison at this system of trails just west of Pinnacle. Alongside the Blue Mountain Natural Area, these hikes range from the easier Cliffbrake Trail to the more difficult Mountain Boomer Trail. Either way, you don’t want to skip the ridge, aka “one of the most dramatic rocky summits in the eastern Ouachita Mountains.” More info here.

 

Emerald Park Trail

If you want a little bit of everything, head for this scenic trail in North Little Rock. You’ll get some paved paths, some natural paths and some climbing rocks, if you’re so inclined — plus some pretty stellar bluff views. More info here.

 

Burns Park Trails

This beloved NLR park took a big hit in the 2023 tornado, leaving a lasting mark on the area and some trails looking a little different than you may remember. But as ever, there are multiple beauitiful hiking routes to choose from whether you want a paved stroll along the river or to log some miles under the tree canopy, and all are worth the short drive. More info here.

 

Credit: Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage & Tourism

Knapp Trail

If the Plum Bayou Mounds (formerly known as the Toltec Mounts) are one of those lived-here-for-years-but-never-seen locations, now’s your chance to change that. Located in Scott, this loop clocks in at about three quarters of a mile and makes for a flat, easy trip. More info here.

 

Plum Bayou Trail

If you’re looking for something a little more lengthy, but still want to learn about the area’s history, the Plum Bayou Mounds Archeological State Park has a second trail that offers 1.6 miles in a figure-eight loop. More info here.

 

Bonus: And if you want a taste of foliage without leaving the neighborhood, Allsopp Park, Knoop Park and Boyle Park never disappoint.

SPONSORED: Allison Brothers Thrive After Lifesaving Heart Care at ACH

By
Arkansas Children's
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0

At first glance, Ryan and Cole Allison seem like any other boys from Arkansas. They love camping, sports and video games. But the brothers were each born with long QT syndrome, a rare, hereditary and potentially life-threatening condition that disrupts the heart’s rhythm.

As babies, both Ryan and Cole had devices implanted at Arkansas Children’s Hospital (ACH) to help manage their condition. Ryan received an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) at 15 months old. Two years later, then 5-month-old Cole had a pacemaker installed.

As a child, Ryan underwent several additional procedures at ACH, facing them with remarkable ease.

“Ryan knew all the anesthesiologists. He’d joke with them,” says Leslie, the boys’ mother. “For Ryan to go back to the OR as many times as he did, he never really batted an eye.”

Credit: Allison Maxwell

But when doctors at ACH determined in 2023 that Cole needed his pacemaker replaced with an ICD, Leslie worried her younger son would have a tougher time.

“He’s not a fan of needles or really any of this,” Leslie adds.

Having seen the excellent care Ryan received, Leslie and her husband Bobby asked for the same cardiothoracic surgeon, Dr. Lawrence Greiten.

Cole’s pre-op assessments went smoothly, but when the procedure ran much longer than expected, Leslie knew something was wrong.

Greiten eventually brought news that stunned the Allisons. Cole had gone into cardiac arrest multiple times during the procedure. The pacemaker’s lead wire had wrapped around his heart.

Greiten ultimately made the lifesaving call to remove the device, leads and wire entirely. After the surgery, Cole was placed on a ventilator and ECMO (a heart/lung bypass machine). After four days, Cole’s condition stabilized. Another two days later, he was awake and breathing on his own. Almost miraculously, a year later, tests showed his heart had sustained no lasting damage.

But the Allisons weren’t through with heart surgeries just yet.

That December, Ryan began having issues with his ICD. In March 2024, the cardiology and cardiac surgery teams partnered to replace and relocate the device to his upper chest. Thankfully, there were no major complications.

Credit: Allison Maxwell

For the Allisons, ACH has been a constant — not just a hospital, but a place where skilled providers and familiar faces have guided them through every twist and turn.

Today, whenever she sees Greiten, Leslie can’t help but hug him. And every year, the family sends a gift on the anniversary of the day the ACH team saved Cole’s life. Leslie says they are Cole’s guardian angels and the family’s heroes.

“It’s a day that’s forever etched in our memories,” she says. “Any time we see them, we thank them.”

Arkansas Children’s is undergoing a historic $318 million expansion to help better serve children like Ryan and Cole. With your support, the expansion will increase access to pediatric care, enhance exceptional outcomes for kids and improve patient experience.

To learn more about the expansion, click here. To support Arkansas Children’s growth, click here or call 800.880.7491 today.

Credit: Allison Maxwell

A Soirée Paid Promotion

Mandy Richardson Named President of Arkansas Business Publishing Group Consumer Division

By
Jess Ardrey
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0

Mandy Richardson, longtime publisher of Little Rock Soirée magazine and founder of the Soirée Women’s Leadership Symposium and Arkansas Business Women’s Leadership Summits, has been named president of Arkansas Business Publishing Group’s consumer media division effective in January.

ABPG is the parent company of Soirée, Arkansas Business and 28 other specialty publications and digital products. The consumer sector is ABPG’s largest revenue division. Its portfolio includes Soirée, Arkansas Bride, Arkansas Next, Fort Worth luxury lifestyle publication 360West and several others, as well as the digital marketing and web design company Flex360.

“Mandy is one of the strongest operators and brand leaders in our company,” says Mitch Bettis, president and CEO of ABPG. “Her understanding of the audiences and her ability to drive both creative and financial results will be essential as we continue to grow.”

Richardson will continue to serve as publisher of Soirée along with a broader leadership role across print, digital, events and emerging revenue lines.

Credit: Sarah Oden

Richardson on stage with SWLS 2023 keynote speaker Mia Hamm.

“Assuming leadership of our consumer division is a tremendous responsibility and an exciting business opportunity as we position our brands, publications and projects for the next decade of growth,” Richardson says. “I am grateful for the confidence placed in me and look forward to partnering with our teams to drive disciplined innovation, strengthen performance across all revenue streams and create even greater value for our readers, eventgoers, clients and company.”

The announcement marks a “strategic leadership realignment” as part of [ABPG’s] long-term plan. Bettis will remain in his roles as company president/CEO, publisher of Arkansas Business and head of the business media division. With Richardson taking the consumer reins, Bettis will focus primarily on the company’s next stage of development.

“We see significant growth opportunities ahead — both in strengthening the products that have built our reputation and in developing and acquiring new revenue initiatives that will carry us through the next decade,” he says. “Reaching these goals requires sustained leadership focus. Mandy is uniquely equipped to guide our consumer brands as we grow.”

Click here to learn more about ABPG’s library of publications, and see more from the company on Facebook and Instagram.

12 Ways to Have the Perfect Little Rock Christmas

By
Jess Ardrey
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0

The stockings are hung with care, the gingerbread houses are covered in gumdrops, the neighbors are blowing fuses with inflatable reindeer on the front lawn and we can’t deny it anymore — ’tis the season!

If you’re spending the holidays in Little Rock this year, here are a few of the most iconic local activities to add to your bucket list for a joyful season.

 

1. Get your tree from a local tree farm.

If you don’t have a Christmas tree yet (no judgment here), never fear. There are plenty of area farms waiting for you to pay them a visit. There’s Motley’s Christmas Tree Farm in Little Rock, Geisler’s Holiday Forest Christmas Tree Farm in Jacksonville, Papa Santa’s Christmas Tree Farm in Benton and more. Pack up the family, throw on a few more layers and check out the details here.

 

2. Sip hot chocolate at Loblolly Creamery.

You’ve had a busy day of shopping and strolling, checking out the holiday window displays in all your go-to local shops. How do you recoup? With a hearty mug of hot chocolate from Loblolly Creamery. Use the cocoa and homemade marshmallows to refuel your shopping spirit or reward yourself for finishing a hard day’s work. Either way, kicking back at the ice cream shop is it’s own kind of therapy, especially if there’s a holiday-flavored scoop in the mix. Visit the SoMa or Hillcrest locations, and don’t skimp on the toppings.

 

Credit: Ballet Arkansas

3. See “The Nutcracker Spectacular” at the Robinson Center.

You know the story, you hum the songs, but there’s something about seeing this iconic show on stage at the holidays that brings new life to a classic. This annual Ballet Arkansas production features professional dancers alongside a community cast and crew of almost 400 kids and adults with live accompaniment by the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra. Learn all about it here.

Ballet not your thing? Catch “A Christmas Story” at Argenta Contemporary Theatre, “Holiday Radio Live” at The Rep, “A Charlie Brown Christmas” with Stage 13, “Junie B. in Jingle Bells, Batman Smells!” at AMFA or any of these holiday shows.

 

4. Visit the tree at The Capital Hotel.

Let there be lights, ornaments, ribbons and more lights! The Capital Hotel may be known as “the front porch of Little Rock,” but this magnificent tree is right at home in its legendary lobby. The lighting ceremony always draws a crowd and visitors keep coming all season long to experience the tree and themed festivities. Before you head home, pop into One Eleven to try an exclusive holiday cocktail menu that includes their award-winning eggnog.

 

5. Volunteer for a local nonprofit.

All eggnog aside, the holiday spirit of giving and peace is what the season is all about, and the thing we love most about this city is that it has no shortage of nonprofits and ways to help out our neighbors. You can always sign up to serve meals or sort donations, but if you’re curious about the specific needs of the community, start here.

 

Credit: Dean Wheeler

6. Make s’mores with Arkansas ingredients.

Did you know it’s a scientific fact that treats taste sweeter when they come from The Natural State? Ok, so maybe it’s not lab-tested, but you’ll have a hard time convincing us otherwise. Remember those handmade marshmallows we mentioned? Get a fire going, stack them with some Kyya or Markham & Fitz chocolates and call it a perfect day.

 

7. Tour the holiday lights.

If you’re known for your merry and bright Clark Griswold streak, you probably already know the best places to see holiday lights. For the rest of us, there’s exploring to be done. Set out in search of your neighborhood’s best displays, then make your way to Sherwood’s Enchanted Forest, GloWILD at the Little Rock Zoo, take a holiday bike tour or visit any of these sparkling sights.

 

8. Chat it up with Santa.

How else is he going to know what’s on your wish list? If you need to get a word in with the big guy in the next two weeks, we made a handy cheat sheet of all the places you can find Kris Kringle in town. Check it out here.

 

9. See the sights at the State Capitol.

Yes, the grand building looks wonderfully festive from the outside with all the lights and lawn decor, but an even more impressive sight awaits inside. Step through the golden doors and feast your eyes on the elegant decorations in the building’s rotunda. Go ahead. We dare you to not take a selfie with the Rockefeller pine.

Want more tinsel? Keep the selfies going and visit some of the city’s other lovely trees at The Bernice Garden (pictured at the top of this page), Old State House Museum, Argenta Plaza, Hillcrest and The Promenade at Chenal.

 

10. Attend a religious service.

Many have already made plans to celebrate Christmas with their local faith communities, but if you’re looking for a service and haven’t found one yet, try these places of worship in some of the different Little Rock neighborhoods: downtown and Argenta, The Heights and Hillcrest or west Little Rock.

 

11. Catch a Christmas movie.

One of our favorite traditions in Little Rock is when local movie theaters hold screenings of classic holiday films. It doesn’t get much better than watching George Bailey on the big screen with a big bucket of popcorn in your lap. Catch “Christmas Vacation,” “Elf,” “It’s a Wonderful Life” and lots more at cinemas across the city. Here’s where to go and when.

 

12. Order a nightcap at Rock Town Distillery.

At the end of the day, when the shops are all closed and the gifts are waiting to be wrapped, the holidays are still about taking a moment with your loved ones. That’s when you’ll be at the state’s first (legal) post-Prohibition distillery, reconnecting with friends and family over an expertly crafted holiday cocktail. Cheers!

Skipping the booze this season? Try one of these merry mocktail recipes.

Credit: Jason Masters

Lights, Bites and Bikes Holiday Tour Gives Festive View of Little Rock

By
Josie Burnett
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0

Rock Town River Outfitters’ limited bike tour series is back again this year to help riders immerse themselves in holiday joy by showcasing the best downtown Little Rock Christmas and holiday displays.

The Lights, Bites and Bikes Holiday Tour takes you on a journey through the capital city during the most cheerful time of year. Throughout the season, you can admire all of the seasonal lights and festive spirit as you cycle to iconic stops and enjoy tasty treats along the way.

Beginning at Rock Town River Outfitters, the tour’s first stop will be at The Capital Hotel, where you can enjoy appetizers, take in the beautiful holiday decor and order a hand-crafted beverage from Capital Bar & Grill. Next up, you’ll stop by the Arkansas State Capitol for a grand tour as you enjoy the stunning light displays inside and outside.

Lastly, you’ll cycle through the evening streets, visiting different neighborhoods to see who has the best decorations. The tour will conclude at Loblolly Creamery so you can warm up with a delicious cup of hot cocoa and specialty marshmallows.

Tour dates are available Dec. 5 through Jan. 31. Each begins at 5:30 p.m. and lasts approximately two hours. Tickets include the bike rental, helmet, pimento cheese dip and hot chocolate. Reserve your spot here.

Little Rock Weekend Guide: Dec. 4-7

By
Jess Ardrey
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0

The merriment is in full force for the first weekend of December and the city is showing out. Let’s get into it.

 

Thursday, Dec. 4

“Happy Holidays” at UA-PTC CHARTS // The Little Rock Wind Symphony’s annual holiday show returns with yuletide cheer and a few special guest performers like baritone George Mayo and an appearance by Santa, as well as a silent auction before the concert. Festivities start at 6:30 p.m. Learn more here.

Trans-Siberian Orchestra at Simmons Bank Arena // Cue the pyrotechnics, it’s time for Christmas with TSO. The iconic band is once again bringing its holiday rock show “The Ghosts of Christmas Eve” to the NLR stage with a whole lot of flair (and lasers). Showtime is 7 p.m. Learn more here.

“Holiday! 2025” at St. James United Methodist Church // It’s lovely weather for a concert together with the River City Men’s Chorus. On the final night of this annual holiday show, the chorus will perform old and new favorites alike, guaranteeing to leave you caroling long after the free concert ends. Showtime is 7 p.m. Learn more here.

Handel’s “Messiah” at Calvary Baptist Church // No, we never get enough carols, especially with a tradition like this. The Arkansas Choral Society is helping kick off the season with its 95th year of performing George Frideric Handel’s acclaimed piece. Showtime is 7:30 p.m. Learn more here.

Save the dates: 14 Can’t-Miss Holiday Shows to Celebrate the Season

 

Friday, Dec. 5

Holly Days at the Pleasant Valley Country Club // ‘Tis the season to be shopping. Now in its fifth year, this holiday market brings in more than 60 local vendors to help you check everything off your list in one afternoon. This year also comes with a cash bar, swag for the first shoppers and an ask for donations of peanut butter and pasta that will go to the Arkansas Foodbank. Come shop 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. Learn more here.

Shop the 2025 Soirée Holiday Gift Guides: Part I and Part II

SoMa After Dark on South Main Street // Just south of 630, this quarterly event features area businesses offering later hours and special activities. Highlights this month include a shop ‘n’ sip at Pink Olive, exhibit party at Esse Museum & Store, pop-ups at South Main Creative and The Nest, new works at M2 Gallery, screen printing at AR-T’s and a joint open house with The Punch Bowl, Boswell Mourot Fine Art and The Green Corner Store. SoMa After Dark runs 4-10 p.m. Learn more here.

Christmas in the Park at Lake Willastein // As part of its Very Merry Maumelle lineup this season, the city is hosting an evening of family-friendly activities, photo opps and live performances before the official tree lighting ceremony. It starts at 4 p.m. Learn more here.

Home for the Holidays at the Albert Pike Masonic Center // Benefiting Our House, this 10th annual fundraiser promises guests a night of food, drinks, live music, auctions and lending a hand to one of the city’s nonprofits helping our unhoused neighbors. The party starts at 6:30 p.m. Learn more here.

Shine on: Where to See Holiday Lights in Central Arkansas

 

Thursday & Friday, Dec. 4 & 5

Holidays in Hillcrest on Kavanaugh // Cocoa on deck. The Hillcrest Merchants Association returns with this annual bash, making it a two-part holiday celebration. Part one is on Thursday with extra festive First Thursday fun like a holiday hayride. On Friday, things get cranked up a Christmas notch with the annual tree lighting ceremony, caroling, photo opps with Santa and more. Learn more here.

Still need your own? Where to Cut Your Own Christmas Tree in Central Arkansas

 

Saturday, Dec. 6

Grand Opening at Pickleball Kingdom // Get excited, picklers. The new facility located in the Shackleford Crossings shopping center boasts 11 climate-controlled courts for you to throw down on, and you can be one of the first to do so on Saturday. Doors open bright and early at 6 a.m. Learn more here.

Jacob Wells 3 Bridges Marathon Through the Metro // Now in its 13th year, this race is true to its name, taking runners across the Clinton Presidential Park Bridge, Big Dam Bridge and Two Rivers Bridge. This race is a special one in the running community and is run in memory of Jacob Wells, who started 3B26 in 2013. Go time is 7 a.m. Learn more here.

A Very Merry Breakfast With Santa at Pleasant Valley Church of Christ // This is how you start a jolly Saturday. A fundraiser for the local foster-care-focused nonprofit The Call, this event is serving up breakfast, crafts, caroling and a special appearance from Santa. Time slots begin at 8 a.m. Learn more here.

Jingle Bell Run at Murray Park // Not up for the full 26.2? Get moving at this holiday 5K benefiting the Arkansas chapter of the Arthritis Foundation. Themed costumes are absolutely encouraged. It starts at 9 a.m. Learn more here.

Keep moving: Ugly Sweater 5K Hits the Streets This Month

Donuts With Santa at the Junior League of Little Rock Building // The JLLR HQ is standing in for the North Pole this weekend. Bring the kiddos to meet the big guy and get in on holiday treats and activities, all while helping support JLLR’s work in the community. Tickets are available in time slots from 9 a.m. – noon. Learn more here.

Pancakes & Pinecones at The Good Earth Garden Center // Let’s keep this Polar Express going. Get your fill of pancakes and coffee on the nursery’s festive grounds, and don’t skip the crafts, treats and getting a word in with Santa. Be there 9-11 a.m. Learn more here.

“Junie B. in Jingle Bells, Batman Smells!” Opening Day at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts // Next up for the AMFA Children’s Theatre is a little dose of Christmas chaos. This show follows famed first-grader Junie B. Jones as she learns about empathy, conflict and friendship amid the holidays. Catch the show at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m., or through Dec. 21. Learn more here.

Holiday Parades in the Metro // Both sides of the river are getting into parade mode this weekend, and locals have their pick of the bunch. Choose one or hit a couple, it’s all up to your level of cheer. Here’s where to go:

Arkansas Razorbacks vs. Fresno State Bulldogs at Simmons Bank Arena // Polish off that call, basketball fans. This is your one chance to see the Hogs take the NLR court this season. Coming off a win against Louisville, the men’s team and Coach Cal will face off against the Bulldogs at 3 p.m. Learn more here.

Capitol Lighting Ceremony at the Arkansas State Capitol // Downtown’s about to get even brighter. To kick off the shiny season, the fireworks will fly once again at this family tradition. Also returning, of course, are the beautifully lit capitol building, Santa visits and the chance to explore the stunning interior decor, too. The ceremony starts at 5:30 p.m. Learn more here.

Holiday & Anniversary Celebration at Leiva’s Coffee Roastery // Somehow it’s already been a year since Leiva’s Coffee opened its new HQ in Roland, and the team is marking the occasion in seasonal style. Expect live entertainment, holiday treats, Santa sightings, discounts and more. Be there 6-8 p.m. Learn more here.

More local flavor: How to create a glam bar cart for the holidays

 

Thursday – Saturday, Dec. 4-6

“Hairspray” Opening Weekend at Quapaw Quarter United Methodist Church // LR looks a bit like Baltimore this weekend. Next up for the Actors Theatre of Little Rock, get ready to hear hits like “You Can’t Stop the Beat” and “The Nicest Kids in Town” live as the Tony-winning musical takes the stage with Tracy and the crew and a whole lot of groove. 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 “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” on Thursday and “Die Hard” on Friday, both at 7 p.m. On Saturday is “Home Alone” at 12:30 p.m., the next Exhibition on Screen installment “Girl with a Pearl Earring” at 4 p.m., followed by a 50th anniversary screening of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” at 8 p.m. Learn more here.

Add to queue: Where to Watch Classic Christmas Movies in Little Rock

 

Friday & Saturday, 5 & 6

“The Book of Mormon” at the Robinson Center // Straighten your tie, brother. When the Tonys, Grammys and a slew of critics all agree on a best musical, you know it’s going to knock your socks off. This Broadway blockbuster follows the outrageous story of two young Mormons who travel to Uganda to share their faith. You have three chances to see the show The New York Times called “the best musical of this century.” Learn more here.

Pawty Season at Bark Bar // Fido’s gone festive. Bark Bar is turning up the merriment this month, and this weekend that means a Christmas tree lighting party, photos with Santa, music, crafts and movies on the lawn. Learn more here.

Can’t catch the Claus this weekend? Here’s Where to See Santa in Little Rock

 

Sunday, Dec. 7

Holiday Open Houses at Downtown Museums // Every year, some of downtown’s most notable museums and historic locales open their doors to visitors, showcasing stunning holiday decor, highlighting their latest exhibits and offering seasonal treats and activities for all ages. Icing on the cake? They’re all relatively close, so you can hit them all in one afternoon (and for free). Here’s when and where:

Up next at HAM: 21st Annual Nog-Off Throws Down Dec. 12

Una Voce Madrigal Dinner at Wildwood Park for the Arts // Step back in time with an evening of caroling, feasting and — if you’re lucky — a healthy helping of wassail. Join the madrigal merriment at 6:30 p.m. Learn more here.

 

Thursday – Sunday, Dec. 4-7

Festive Markets in the Metro // The #shoplocal spirit is going strong this weekend and the market scene definitely got the memo. Hit up these seasonal pop-ups and shopping spectacles.

 

Friday – Sunday, Dec. 5-7

Arkansas Craft Guild Christmas Showcase at the Arkansas State Fairgrounds // If you’re still doing all your holiday shopping at big box stores, make this the year you break that habit. Here you’ll find quality art and fine crafts galore by members of the Arkansas Craft Guild and guests. Browse the work of dozens of makers with items including everything from pottery and fiber art to jewelry and soaps. Shopping hours are 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sunday. Learn more here.

Holiday Hangout at The White Water Tavern // And now for a break from your regularly scheduled (and rather saccharine) holiday programming. Do your merrymaking a bit differently this weekend at WWT’s annual bash with three days of music and a whole lot of artists. Learn more here.

Staying in this weekend? Discover the December Issue of Soirée

Where to See Santa Claus in Little Rock

By
Little Rock Soirée Staff
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0

The countdown is on! There are only three short weeks left until Christmas, and time is running out to get in with jolly ol’ Saint Nicholas.

While we know he’ll be popping into local events all over central Arkansas, here are a few surefire places to catch Santa Claus when he comes to town.

Christmas at The Capital Hotel: Mr. and Mrs. Claus will be visiting The Capital Hotel throughout the holiday season. There’s the storytime with Santa, lunch with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, a very beary workshop and a teddy bear tea. Plus, don’t miss your chance to see the stunning tree. For info, call 501.374.7474 or visit capitalhotel.com.

Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops: Visitors will find a Christmas village, model trains, twinkling lights and free photos with Saint Nick. Kids can also participate in crafts, giveaways and write letters to the North Pole. Photos take place through Dec. 24, reservations required. For info, call 501.954.4500 or visit basspro.com.

Santa Claus at Park Plaza Mall: Here, Santa arrives to visit with boys and girls every day until Christmas Eve. Hear him ho-ho-ho on the second level near H&M. Hours vary and reservations for photos are required. For info, call 501.664.4956 or visit parkplazamall.com.

Santa Claus at McCain Mall: Find Kris Kringle on the lower level and give him your secret wish list for the holiday season through Dec. 24. Make a reservation here. Hours vary and reservations are encouraged. For info, call 501.758.758.6340 or visit the mall website.

 

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Bonus Sightings & Events:

  • Santa Christopher is making a stop at Community Bakery on Dec. 17 from 6-7 p.m. There will be photos, cookies and lots of Christmas magic.
  • Mr. Claus will make an appearance at Laman Library on Dec. 13 from 10 a.m. –  noon. Plus, get your pet photos with Santa on Dec. 19 from 6-8 p.m. and enjoy pancakes with Santa at the Argenta Branch Library on Dec. 20 from 10 a.m. – noon.
  • Bell Urban Farmstand is bringing Santa back for mini photoshoots on Dec. 13 from 1-4 p.m. Fur babies are welcome!
  • Santa will be visiting the Little Rock Zoo during the GloWild! lantern festival on select nights beginning on Dec. 14 from 5-9 p.m.
  • Dip into some doughnut decorating with Santa at Hurts Donut on Dec. 20 at 10:30 a.m.
  • Santa is bringing stories and photos to WordsWorth Books on Dec. 6 at 11:30 a.m.
  • Get your Christmas tree and a photo with Santa at Papa Santa’s Christmas Tree Farm on Saturday, Dec. 6 and 13.
  • Make memories with Santa and grab your photos with him for the season on Dec. 10 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. at 3828 JFK Blvd. in North Little Rock.
  • The Junior League of Little Rock is hosting Santa for a day of donuts, crafts and photos on Dec. 6 from 9 a.m. – noon.
  • Take a fun family selfie with Santa and Mrs. Claus at The Promenade at Chenal on Dec. 20 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Ugly Sweater 5K Hits the Streets This Month

By
Little Rock Soirée Staff
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0

Brown paper packages tied up with strings, silver-white winters that melt into springs, poorly bedazzled reindeer on patchwork quilt vests — these are a few of our very favorite things.

The city’s favorite cable knit 5K has returned: the Ugly Sweater Race. Created by the team behind the Little Rock Marathon, Mud Run and Creep ‘N’ Crawl, this family fun run is set for Saturday, Dec. 20, at Two Rivers Park.

Of course, what makes this race special is that runners are encouraged to show off their ugliest, gaudiest, merriest holiday garb for the occasion. While they may not have the dry-wick capabilities of your regular running attire, we have a feeling the holly jolly hilarity will more than make up for it.

“With so many athletes training for marathon weekend, we wanted to offer them a fun event that will help them reach their training goals,” says Geneva Lamm, executive director of the Little Rock Marathon.

The timed 5K will feature a custom finisher’s medal and participant shirts, while the untimed, quarter-mile Elf Dash for kiddos comes complete with stockings filled with goodies. There’s also a virtual race option for those who can’t make the tacky trot in person.

It all starts at 8:45 a.m. with the Elf Dash before the grownups take off at 9 a.m.

Registration for the race is available online through Dec. 15. For more information and to claim your spot (which usually sells out), visit the Ugly Sweater Race website, and follow along on Facebook and Instagram for updates.

 

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Where to Watch Classic Christmas Movies in Little Rock

By
Jess Ardrey
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0

Hold on to your tinsel, everybody.

‘Tis not officially the season without a lineup of your favorite holiday movies. You love them, you vouch for them, you put them on T-shirts and you quote them all year long.

Once again Little Rock is dusting off the classics (and a few more recent faves) to bring to the merry masses on the big screen. Take notes and make plans to check out these holiday screenings.

 

CALS Ron Robinson Theater

  • Dec. 4 – “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation”
  • Dec. 5 – “Die Hard”
  • Dec. 6 – “Home Alone”
  • Dec. 9 – “Love Actually”
  • Dec. 16 – “White Christmas”
  • Dec. 18 – “Elf”
  • Dec. 19 – “Gremlins”
  • Dec. 20 – “Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas”
  • Dec. 20 – “It’s a Wonderful Life”

For more info on seasonal screenings at Ron Robinson, click here.

 

Riverdale 10

  • Dec. 11 – “Silent Night, Deadly Night”

For more info on seasonal screenings at Riverdale, click here.

 

Film Alley

  • Dec. 9 – “The Polar Express”
  • Dec. 11-17 – “How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)”
  • Dec. 16 – “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation”
  • Dec. 23 – “Elf”

For more info on seasonal screenings at Film Alley, click here.

 

Cinemark Colonel Glenn (The Rave)

  • Dec. 3 – “The Grinch (2018)”
  • Dec. 6 & 10 – “A Christmas Story”
  • Dec. 11-17 – “Silent Night, Deadly Night”
  • Dec. 12 & 17 – “Elf”
  • Dec. 12-17 – “How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)”

For more info on seasonal screenings at The Rave, click here.

 

Regal McCain Mall

  • Dec. 2 & 12 – “Arthur Christmas”
  • Dec. 3 – “A Madea Christmas”
  • Dec. 4 – “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever (2024)”
  • Dec. 5 – “Four Christmases”
  • Dec. 6 – “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation”
  • Dec. 12-18, 21 – “How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)”
  • Dec. 13 & 23 – “The Polar Express”
  • Dec. 14 – “Elf”
  • Dec. 15 – “Eight Crazy Nights”
  • Dec. 16 – “Scrooged”
  • Dec. 18 – “Christmas in Connecticut”
  • Dec. 20 – “A Christmas Story”
  • Dec. 22 – “Klaus”
  • Dec. 25 – “It’s a Wonderful Life”
  • Dec. 26 – “Gremlins”
  • Dec. 28 – “The Grinch (2018)”
  • Dec. 29 – “Daddy’s Home 2”

For more info on seasonal screenings at McCain, click here.

 

Movie Tavern

Dec. 5-11:

  • “Elf”
  • “The Grinch (2018)”

Dec. 12-17

  • “White Christmas”
  • “It’s a Wonderful Life”
  • “The Polar Express”
  • “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation”

For more info on seasonal screenings at Movie Tavern, click here.

 

Bonus: For a little mystery with your merry, Southern Tail Brewing is showing a different holiday movie every Tuesday at 6 p.m., but they don’t announce the lineup until the day before, so keep an eye on their socials.

Holidays in Hillcrest Kicks Off This Weekend

By
Little Rock Soirée Staff
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0

‘Tis officially the season, and Hillcrest is ready to get you in the holiday mood. This weekend kicks off Holidays in Hillcrest, a two-day celebration where neighborhood shops and restaurants will open their doors for family-friendly Christmas fun.

The festivities start this Thursday, Dec. 4, at 5:30 p.m. with Hillcrest’s monthly First Thursday event. There you can get in on lots of holiday specials, live music and displays at local businesses, including photos with Santa at Hill Station and Hocott’s Garden Center’s annual holiday hayride down Kavanaugh, plus a chance to meet the Grinch.

The fun continues the following night with the annual Hillcrest tree lighting ceremony at 5:30 p.m. at the Allsopp Promenade. The Pulaski Heights Middle School and montessori school choirs will be on hand to perform holiday tunes, and keep an eye out for Santa’s helpers passing out cookies and cocoa. Kiddos will also have a chance to get a photo with Santa after the lighting.

For more info, head to the Holidays in Hillcrest Facebook event page, and follow the Hillcrest Merchants Association on Facebook and Instagram to keep up with neighborhood happenings.

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