Seasonal happenings in Hot Springs

The holiday season is a memorable time of year to experience Hot Springs, which is surrounded by the picturesque Ouachita Mountains.

Taking in the beauty of Holiday Lights at Garvan Woodland Gardens in Hot Springs is an annual tradition for many in the state. During this event lights transform the location into a festive holiday scene. The gardens are usually not open during the day during the event.  For more details on Holiday Lights, visit garvangardens.org. 

Of note, dogs are not allowed at Garvan Woodland Gardens during the event. Check out their website for information on further events taking place at the gardens during the holiday season. Below is a video of the type of lights that have been featured at Holiday Lights through the years.

Along with the lights at Garvan Woodland Gardens more lights can also be seen throughout the city. The holiday lights in downtown Hot Springs are usually turned on during the annual Tom Daniel Holiday Chili Cook Off on Exchange Street. During this popular event, which is the city's kickoff to the holiday season, local businesses compete to see who can concoct the best chili. Check out the Visit Hot Springs calendar of events for current dates of the event. 

The Arlington Lawn, which is part of Hot Springs National Park, is also home to a beautiful display of lights each year. The lawn is a picturesque place for photos with the famous Arlington Hotel, which can be found north of the park across the street, in the background. The lawn has interesting historical ties to the hotel, which you can read more about here. 

Along with holiday lights, the Piccolo Zoppé Winter Circus also sometimes performs in town during the holiday season. Check out their website for more details on show dates. 

An annual Christmas parade also takes place downtown every year in early December. The parade has a different theme each year and is a seasonal tradition for many. 

December is also a special festive month for the city as Opening Day for live racing at Oaklawn usually opens then. 

For more details on these annual events and others, check out the Visit Hot Springs calendar here.

Along with festive events, the city is also home to Kringles in the Park, a year-round Christmas store! The store is located downtown at 118 Central Ave., Suite B.