Little Rock Weekend Guide: Dec. 19-22
Little Rock is buzzing with festive activities as the holiday season takes center stage. Here are the highlights of what to expect this weekend:
Wednesday, December 19
– GloWILD Lantern Festival:
– The Little Rock Zoo is transformed into a dazzling spectacle with the GloWILD Lantern Festival. This interactive light festival features dozens of handcrafted silk-covered lanterns, making it one of the nation’s largest and most magical events[1][4].
– Times: 5 PM – 9 PM
– Admission: for Zoo members and for the general public. Family packs available with discounted admission[1][4].
Thursday, December 20
– Holiday Shopping:
– If you’re looking to gift some festive cheer while supporting local businesses, the Cabot's Celebrate the Season Holiday Shopping Event is your go-to spot. Located in Cabot, this event offers a variety of holiday shopping options amidst a joyful atmosphere.
Friday, December 21
– Lantern Festival Sensory Night:
– Don’t miss out on the Sensory Night at GloWILD, specially designed for those with sensory sensitivities. The event light and noise levels will be adjusted to create a more comfortable experience for all guests.
– Time: Thursday, December 12, 2024[1].
Saturday, December 22
1. Big Jingle Jubilee:
– Get into the holiday spirit with the Big Jingle Jubilee. Although the exact details of this event are not specified, it promises to be a fun-filled day filled with music, festivities, and perhaps even some holiday treats.
2. Sherwood’s Trail of Lights:
– The Trail of Lights at Sherwood is a beautiful annual tradition where the streets are adorned with thousands of twinkling lights. This popular event has been ongoing from December 1st through the 30th, but it’s still worth a visit for the festive ambiance.
3. Maumelle’s Holiday Parade:
– If you’re in the Maumelle area, head over to the Maumelle’s Holiday Parade on Saturday, December 7. This year’s theme is inspired by National Lampoon’s Christmas, promising a hilarious and entertaining spectacle featuring Griswold-inspired lights and quirky characters[5].
4. Southwest Little Rock Christmas Parade:
– Meanwhile in Southwest Little Rock, the festive Southwest Christmas Parade is heating up the streets with over 79 participants, including local businesses, community groups, schools, and dance teams. Expect a dazzling mix of monster trucks and appearances by beloved Disney characters along with Santa Claus himself[5].
5. Christmas at the Creek:
– For a more family-friendly affair, Christmas at the Creek hosted by Rock Creek Kids offers free admission and a wide range of activities like live nativities, cakewalks, face painting, and a petting zoo. It’s an excellent way to start your holiday season with some wonderful memories.
Events Summary
– GloWILD Lantern Festival: An immersive light display at the Little Rock Zoo featuring handcrafted silk-covered lanterns.
– Big Jingle Jubilee: An event celebrating the holiday season with joyous festivities and music.
– Sherwood’s Trail of Lights: A festive drive-through light display in Sherwood.
– Maumelle’s Holiday Parade: A humorous parade inspired by National Lampoon’s Christmas with Griswold-inspired lights.
– Southwest Christmas Parade: A parade featuring local participants, monster trucks, Disney characters, and special appearances.
These activities promise to make your weekend in Little Rock an unforgettable holiday experience filled with joy, light, and tradition.
