Celebrate the Holiday Season in the Arkansas Delta and North Central Ozarks in December

December brings a wonderful array of holiday-themed events to the Arkansas Delta and the North Central Ozarks.

The Forum Theatre in Jonesboro offers the holiday classic The Nutcracker Ballet on Dec. 6-9. The performance showcases more than 100 student dancers. The beloved ballet features a score by Tchaikovsky that is known the world over. The Nutcracker debuted in St. Petersburg, Russia, in December 1892. It tells the story of Clara, her magical nutcracker doll, her godfather Droselmeyer, the raucous mouse king and the beautiful sugar plum fairy. Tickets start at $5. On Dec. 20-21, the Forum presents a live production of “It’s a Wonderful Life.” Based on the beloved Frank Capra film of the same name, the play tells the story of George Bailey. George is a man who has given up his dreams in order to help others and plans to end his life on Christmas Eve. But his guardian angel Clarence Odbody intervenes. 

The East Arkansas Community College Fine Arts Center in Forrest City welcomes the Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra with The Pied Pipers on Saturday, Dec. 7. Enjoy big band tradition with the legendary Pied Pipers backed by the world-famous Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra. The 15-piece orchestra and singers will delight the young and the “young at heart” with an era of great music in a memorable holiday performance.

The Fowler Center, located on the campus of Arkansas State University in Jonesboro, presents Mark O’Connor & Friends: An Appalachian Christmas on Dec. 12. The concert is a part of the Fowler Center’s Distinguished Performance Concert Series. Award-winning musician and composer Mark O’Connor is joined singers and performers for this evening of holiday music. 

Head to Powhatan on Dec. 14 as Powhatan Historic State Park hosts the annual Victorian Holiday Ball. Experience the holiday season with a touch of Victorian elegance. Live music and dance instruction will be featured throughout the evening, and 19th century costume is optional. 

Have a wonderful December and a safe New Year!