For generations of Arkansas families, seeing Christmas lights has been a cherished part of the holiday season. Nearly every town offers its own tradition — from courthouse square lightings and community parades to neighborhoods that glow from curb to rooftop. For many, standing on a courthouse lawn as the lights flicker on is a full sensory moment that brings childhood nostalgia to life, even for the grumpiest grandpa in town.
Across the Natural State, several standout displays continue to draw visitors from near and far.
GloWild at the Zoo
Located at the Little Rock Zoo, GloWild transforms the zoo into a glowing nighttime experience with more than 50 illuminated creatures, including towering dinosaurs. Cultural activities and animated lantern displays bring the exhibits to life, making it a popular stop for families and out-of-town guests through January 4. Special events include a sensory-friendly night on December 11 and a GloWild New Year’s Eve celebration.
White River Wonderland
Known as the Christmas Capital of Arkansas, Batesville’s White River Wonderland remains one of the state’s most iconic holiday attractions. Last year, nearly 48,000 vehicles passed through the display, with more than 45 percent of visitors traveling from out of state. The expansive light show has been compared to scenes from a Hallmark holiday movie and continues to impress with new, immersive experiences.
Holidays at Harding
The Harding University campus becomes a centerpiece of holiday cheer in Searcy. A walkable light display is part of the city’s Holiday of Lights tour, complemented by the Searcy Tour of Homes, a Living Nativity, train rides, and festive concerts. Together, these events create a charming and family-friendly Christmas atmosphere.
Coulter Celebration of Lights
Hosted on the Arkansas State University–Mountain Home campus, the Coulter Celebration of Lights offers both drive-through and walkable experiences. The annual 5K fun run under the lights, along with hot chocolate treats, musical guests, and visits from the North Pole, make it a seasonal favorite in north Arkansas.
More Christmas Light Displays Across Arkansas
Central & South Arkansas
Small Town Christmas — Benton
Arkansas State Capitol — Little Rock
Bright the Night — Downtown Little Rock
Illuminate — Conway
Enchanted Forest Trail of Lights — Sherwood
Trail of Holiday Lights — Jacksonville
Northern Lights — North Little Rock
Christmas Road to Bethlehem — Lonoke
Glisten in Greenbrier — Greenbrier
North & Delta Regions
Christmas in the Village — Cherokee Village
Lights on Linker Mountain — Dover
Lights of Christmas at Connect Church — Russellville
Downtown Russellville & Courthouse Square — Russellville
Holiday Trail of Lights — Heber Springs
Christmas in Mountain View — Mountain View
Light Up the Night — Bull Shoals
Christmas at the Ridge — Walnut Ridge
Christmas in Cotter — Cotter
Lighting of the Historic Square — Harrison
From small towns to university campuses, Arkansas continues to shine bright each holiday season — offering families unforgettable moments wrapped in lights, tradition, and Christmas cheer.
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