Christmas Markets Arkansas 2025 Best Festive Events and Locations
Thinking about Christmas in Arkansas? You’ll find plenty of markets and festivals popping up all over the state. Local vendors show off handmade crafts and serve up seasonal treats that’ll put you in a holiday mood.
You’ll spot booths with handcrafted gifts, holiday decorations, and all sorts of festive food. Grab a warm cookie, sip some hot chocolate, or try something savory from a food truck while you wander.
There’s more than just shopping. Families can skate, catch live performances, or visit with Santa. Markets in places like Little Rock light up with decorations and twinkling displays that really set the scene.
Whether you’re hunting for gifts or just soaking in the lights, Arkansas Christmas markets give you a chance to connect with the community and dive into holiday traditions.
Table of Contents
- 1 Find the Best Accommodations
- 2 1) Fayetteville Square
- 3 2) Hot Springs Christkindlmarkt
- 4 3) Bella Vista Handmade Market
- 5 4) Jones Center Festive Market
- 6 5) Saline County Holiday Market
- 7 6) El Dorado’s Murphy Arts District
- 8 7) Dickson Street’s Holiday Craft Fair
- 9 8) Bentonville Christmas Craft Market
- 10 9) Argenta Holiday Marketplace
- 11 Kris Kringle Tips
- 12 10) Mid-America Science Museum’s Winter Wonderland
Find the Best Accommodations
Visitors like you rated these hotels, guesthouses and apartments as ‘superb’ or ‘exceptional’. No reservation fees.
1) Fayetteville Square
What to Expect at the Market
Fayetteville Square sits right in the center of town and draws in a crowd every holiday season. The square hosts the Holiday Market and Farmers’ Market, both packed with local products.
You can stroll past booths selling artisan crafts, wreaths, and baked goodies. Many vendors bring in fresh produce, eggs, meats, and cheeses—everything’s made or grown by folks from the area.
You’ll discover unique gifts and support local makers at the same time. Each evening, the whole square lights up, and the atmosphere turns downright magical.
Every year, the Lights of the Ozarks festival kicks off with a lighting ceremony and a parade. People keep coming back for the friendly vibe and the variety of things to see.
There’s no entrance fee, and the events usually run on several weekends, so you’ve got options if you miss one.
| Dates | Times | Location | Price | Where to Stay Nearby | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 6, 13, 20, 2025 | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Fayetteville Square | Free entry | Graduate Fayetteville on Booking.com | Fayetteville Square Holiday Market |
| Nov 22 – Jan 1, 2026 | 5 p.m. – 1 a.m. | Fayetteville Historic Square | Free entry | Inn at Carnall Hall on Booking.com | Lights of the Ozarks |
2) Hot Springs Christkindlmarkt
Hot Springs Christkindlmarkt brings a bit of European-style holiday fun to Arkansas every November. As you wander this open-air holiday market, you’ll see stalls decked out in festive lights.
Vendors set up shop with handmade crafts, seasonal ornaments, and plenty of gift-worthy finds. You can snack on roasted nuts, sip hot cocoa, or grab a piece of gingerbread.
The market buzzes with live music and entertainment all day. Friends and families gather to enjoy treats and hunt for unique gifts.
You don’t have to pay anything to get in, so anyone can swing by and join in the fun. You’ll find the Hot Springs Christkindlmarkt at the address below, and there are plenty of places to stay nearby.
For more details, check the Hot Springs Christkindlmarkt page.
| Dates | Address | Times | Prices | Where to Stay Nearby | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 15-16, 2025 | Hot Springs, AR | 10 AM – 8 PM | Free Admission | Accommodation in Hot Springs | Hot Springs Christkindlmarkt |
3) Bella Vista Handmade Market
The Bella Vista Handmade Market sets up at 1991 Forest Hills Drive in Bella Vista, Arkansas. This three-day event runs from October 17 to 19, 2025, opening at 9 AM and wrapping up by 5 PM.
Entry’s free, so you can drop in whenever you like. Regional vendors bring all sorts of handcrafted things—paintings, pottery, jewelry, and small crafts.
Live music and food stalls give the place a lively feel. There’s even a barbecue competition, and teams from all over the area show off their skills.
When you buy something here, you help out charities like the NWA Food Bank and Bella Vista Animal Shelter. It’s a nice way to support local artists and community groups.
If you’re looking for a place to stay, Booking.com has some options nearby.
Want more details or planning help? Check the official Bella Vista Arts & Crafts Festival website.
| Dates | Address | Times | Price | Nearby Stays | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| October 17-19, 2025 | 1991 Forest Hills Drive, Bella Vista, AR | 9 AM – 5 PM | Free entry | Booking.com | Bella Vista Arts & Crafts Festival |
4) Jones Center Festive Market
Looking for a family-friendly holiday shopping spot in Arkansas? The Jones Center Festive Market is a solid choice.
Each year, local sellers fill the venue with handmade gifts, custom ornaments, and creative decorations. It’s a great place to find gifts that feel personal and unique to Arkansas.
Kids have a blast with crafts, face painting, and visits with Santa. These activities make it a hit for families with children.
Lights and music add to the cheerful vibe. The market gives you room to wander, snack, and shop at your own pace.
Vendors serve up warm drinks and fresh treats—cookies and cocoa are favorites. You can enjoy a snack while checking out the stalls.
Here’s the key info for your visit:
| Date | Address | Time | Price | Where to Stay Nearby | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 15, 2025 | The Jones Center, 922 E Emma Ave, Springdale, AR 72764 | 10am–5pm | Free | Nearby hotels | Event info |
5) Saline County Holiday Market
The Saline County Holiday Market brings together local makers and holiday shoppers in downtown Benton. Vendors line up with crafts, handmade ornaments, and winter accessories.
You might spot something perfect for your home or as a gift. Live music keeps things lively, with choirs and bands filling the air with holiday tunes.
Dance groups sometimes perform, so there’s always something happening as you shop. Homemade food is a highlight here—think fresh-baked cookies and hot drinks from several stands.
Here’s what you need to know if you want to visit. For updates and a full vendor list, check the Saline County Holiday Market 2025 website.
| Date | Address | Time | Price | Where to Stay Nearby | Website Address |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 24-25, 2025 | 123 Main St, Benton, AR 72015 | 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM | Free | Hotels near Benton, AR | Saline County Holiday Market 2025 |
6) El Dorado’s Murphy Arts District
If you swing by El Dorado’s Murphy Arts District in December or early January, you’ll find a lot more than just concerts. The area really leans into the holiday atmosphere.
Music fills the amphitheater, with both local and national performers taking the stage. Holiday lights and decorations cover the grounds, making it a fun spot for everyone.
At the holiday market, you can browse gifts, crafts, and seasonal snacks. As you walk around, you’ll spot colorful lights and festive displays everywhere.
Families come for memorable photos. Couples often take evening strolls to soak up the mood.
The whole thing feels organized and welcoming, with a clear schedule and lots of entertainment. Here’s the info you’ll need to plan:
| Dates | Address | Times | Entry Cost | Where to Stay Nearby | Official Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| November 18, 2025 to January 5, 2026 | 101 E. Locust Street, El Dorado, AR 71730 | 9 AM – 9 PM | Free to enter; event fees may vary | Hampton Inn El Dorado | Murphy Arts District Holiday Events |
You get a mix of music, holiday shopping, and special events all in one place. With free entry and a bunch of activities, Murphy Arts District is a solid pick if you’re looking for a seasonal outing in south Arkansas.
7) Dickson Street’s Holiday Craft Fair
Dickson Street really comes alive during its Holiday Craft Fair. You’ll spot all kinds of handmade goods, creative art, and baked treats as you wander.
Local artists and bakers show off their talents, and you get the chance to pick up gifts you won’t find anywhere else. There’s a buzzy, cheerful crowd that fills the street.
Live entertainment brings holiday music throughout the day. You’ll hear the festive tunes as you shop, and the mood feels contagious.
Santa pops in for photos, and kids can join in special activities just for them. It’s definitely a family-friendly event.
As you stroll, food vendors tempt you with seasonal snacks and hot drinks. The air smells like gingerbread and other classic holiday treats.
Travelers come here searching for creative presents. The market specializes in one-of-a-kind finds.
Here’s what you need to know for your visit:
| Dates | Address | Time | Cost | Where to Stay Nearby | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 7-10 | Dickson Street, Fayetteville, AR | 10 AM – 6 PM | Free entry | Hotels on Booking.com | Learn more at Christmas Market USA 2025 |
8) Bentonville Christmas Craft Market
Walk into the Bentonville Christmas Craft Market and you’ll feel the energy right away. Local makers fill their booths with handcrafted items, seasonal décor, and creative gifts.
The layout makes it easy to browse at your own pace. If you’re hoping for something different for friends or family, you’ll spot a lot of unique options.
Artisans offer everything from ornaments to handmade candles, and most pieces are truly one-of-a-kind. It’s a solid spot for holiday shopping and picking out special gifts.
The market hosts events for all ages. You can catch holiday performances, join in festive activities, and even try ice skating.
The vibe stays upbeat and welcoming, with winter decorations and food vendors spread throughout. Warm up with hot cocoa as you shop and soak in the friendly holiday spirit.
This event gives you a practical way to support small businesses and enjoy holiday traditions in Bentonville.
| Date | Time | Address | Price | Where to Stay Nearby | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 1-24, 2025 | 10:00 am – 5:00 pm | Bentonville, AR | Free | Hotels in Bentonville | Bentonville Holiday Market info |
9) Argenta Holiday Marketplace
Head to the Argenta Holiday Marketplace in North Little Rock for a fun mix of handmade items. Local makers sell ornaments, jewelry, scarves, and more.
If you want something unique and handmade for the holidays, this place is a safe bet. Live music fills the air as you wander through the market.
Vendors serve up hot drinks and street food, which keeps you warm and fueled as you browse. The atmosphere stays festive but relaxed.
Families and solo shoppers both seem to love this spot. It’s easy to spend a couple of hours here.
| Dates | Location | Times | Cost | Nearby Hotels | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 7–10 | Main Street, North Little Rock | 10 am – 8 pm | Free Entry | Hotels near Main Street, North Little Rock | Argenta Christmas Market details |
Kris Kringle Tips
Dress in warm, comfortable layers for Christmas markets in Arkansas. Evenings can get chilly, so bring a cozy jacket, scarf, and gloves. Wear comfortable shoes for walking, and don’t forget a hat in case it gets windy. Layers let you adjust as you move between outdoor stalls and indoor spaces.
10) Mid-America Science Museum’s Winter Wonderland
What to Expect at the Winter Wonderland Event
Each December, you can check out the Mid-America Science Museum’s Winter Wonderland in Hot Springs, Arkansas. The museum transforms its regular hands-on activities with festive, science-themed holiday displays and creative lighting.
Younger visitors join interactive workshops with a holiday twist, while adults explore displays that blend seasonal design with cool science. The environment is lively, but it’s all about learning and discovery.
The festival turns familiar museum spaces into bright, engaging holiday scenes. Different rooms feature light shows and installations, and you can actually interact with the exhibits.
Workshops, special events, and featured displays pop up throughout the month. There’s always something new to find.
They focus on both education and fun, so you’ll have plenty to see and do. Travelers from outside Hot Springs often find the event worth the trip during winter.
| Dates | Location Address | Times | Admission | Hotels Nearby | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 1 – 31 | 500 Mid America Blvd, Hot Springs, AR 71913 | 9 AM – 6 PM | $10 – $15 | Find places to stay in Hot Springs | Visit the official event page |
Christmas Market Closures
Due to econonic conditions and tariffs, some Christmas Markets may cancel their events due to lack of vendors. If you are aware of a closed market,or find errors on a listing or an image, please reach out on our Contact Us page so that we may update this post.