Let there be lights!
Holiday lights always manage to illuminate our Christmas spirit. And with the help of some fellow light lovers around central Arkansas, we know where to go to put even the biggest Grinch in a merry and bright mood.
Here’s a look at holiday light displays around the region.
In the Metro:
Trail of Lights at Sherwood’s Enchanted Forest
A tradition for many in the metro, this mile-long, drive-thru route in Sherwood Forest features dozens of brightly-lit holiday displays. New this year is the implementation of extended hours, a faster flow and contactless donations. Admission is still free, and no reservations are required.
Open from 5 p.m. – midnight through Dec. 30. For info, call 501.413.8030 or visit cityofsherwood.net.
Arkansas State Capitol in Downtown Little Rock
This weekend, the State Capitol will soon been illuminated for its 86th annual holiday display (including some incredible interior decor as well). Admission is always free.
Holiday lights will shine each night through the new year, with indoor hours of 7 a.m. – 9 p.m. Monday-Friday and 10 a.m. – 9 p.m on weekends. For details, call 501.682.1010 or visit sos.arkansas.gov.
Holidays on Main
Look no further for the perfect photo spot than the corner of Main and Capitol. Put on by the Downtown Little Rock Partnership, this setup is a winter wonderland in Capitol Plaza featuring a new 32-foot tree, holiday scenes and lights.
It will be on display through the new year. For more info, check out the DLRP Facebook page.
GloWILD! at the Little Rock Zoo
If you don’t immediately think of wild animals during the holidays, this might change your mind. Explore magical, larger-than-life lanterns in the form of your favorite zoo inhabitants, plus holiday activities for the whole family.
Check out GloWILD! 5-9 p.m. on select nights through Jan. 5. For more info, call 501.661.7200 or visit littlerockzoo.com.
The Whimsical Trail at Lake Willastein
The Lake Willastein trail in Maumelle is now decked out in dazzling holiday lights. Experience the beauty for yourself and snap fun photos as you walk through the trail stretch between the boat ramp and playground.
Open nightly from 5-10 p.m. For more info, call 501.851.2500 or visit maumelle.org.
All Lit Up! on Municipal Drive in Jacksonville
Jacksonville’s Christmas tree lighting and holiday light displays offer another family-friendly environment for all ages. The festive and bright trail of lights is free and open to the public with no reservations required.
All Lit Up! will be on display through the new year. For more info, call 501.982.4171 or visit cityofjacksonville.net.
Small Town Christmas in Benton
The lights are now twinkling in downtown Benton during the city’s Small Town Christmas showcase. After you explore the square and holiday lights, lace up your skates and hit the ice rink. Plus, see Santa at the courthouse on select nights in December.
Christmas lights will be on display until Jan. 5. For more info, call 501.303.4010 or visit mysaline.com.
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And don’t miss these must-see trees around the capital city:
- The Capital Hotel
- The Promenade at Chenal
- Argenta Plaza
- The Bernice Garden
Worth the Drive:
Holiday Lights at Garvan Woodland Gardens
Carol through the botanical landscapes and dazzling lights at Garvan Gardens’ annual Holiday Lights event.
View the lights from 4-9 p.m. through Dec. 31. For more info, call 501.262.9300 or visit garvangardens.org.
Hot Springs Holiday Lights on Bathhouse Row
More than a million lights await down Central Ave. in this annual light display along Bathhouse Row in downtown Hot Springs. (The Arlington lawn is always a favorite.)
Holiday lights are on display starting at 5 p.m. through the new year. For more info, call 501.321.2277 or visit hotsprings.org.
Mountain Harbor Resort on Lake Ouachita
The day after Thanksgiving is the official start of Christmas at this resort on Lake Ouachita. The festive display — which includes more than 2 million lights — is free and open to the public.
See them for yourself through the new year. For more info, call 870.867.2191 or visit mountainharborresort.com.
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