Family-Friendly Holiday Traditions in Springdale

What do you have to look forward to during the holidays in downtown Springdale? Cycling Santas, a hot cocoa crawl and more.

The big event is Christmas on the Creek from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 26. This holiday tradition features a hot cocoa crawl throughout downtown, Cycling Santas bike rides led by the Springdale Bike Club, the Mill Street Holiday Market, pictures with Santa on the grounds of the Shiloh Museum of Ozark History, live music and the lighting of the tallest live Christmas tree in Northwest Arkansas. The fun culminates with the spectacular Christmas Parade of the Ozarks hosted by the Rodeo of the Ozarks.  

The holiday fun doesn’t end there.

The Springdale School District hosts Caroling on the Creek on Friday, Dec. 2.

Storefronts also decorate for the holidays and offer plenty of shopping for unique gifts. The downtown Holiday Open House is set for Saturday, Nov. 12 and the Window Wonderland Contest takes place from Saturday, Nov. 26 through Saturday, Dec. 10. Downtown businesses include specialty stores, bars, restaurants, retail shops and more.

And, don’t miss the festive spirit of the art installation at The Famous Hardware Building, located at 113 W. Emma Ave. The windows of this building feature artwork from artists throughout the country with exhibits changing throughout the year. You can also take a Downtown Mural Tour.

Many of the events take place within the Outdoor Dining District, where people can enjoy the festive mood and lights while enjoying an adult beverage. Throughout the year, expect pop-up concerts, art walks and more. The district includes Turnbow Park, which offers great outdoor space on the bank of the creek running through town. It’s also right on the Razorback Regional Greenway.

Plus, the Arkansas & Missouri Railroad is just a few steps away. Buy tickets at the depot for an excursion ride to Van Buren or Winslow and back. The train takes passengers on a scenic ride over high trestles and through a tunnel.

Details for downtown happenings can be found at downtownspringdale.org.