01 Dec 2025 Give the gift of an Arkansas’s Great Southwest Christmas

Posted at 8:39 PMh in Features by

There’s a certain magic that settles over Southwest Arkansas each winter – a blend of small-town tradition, historic charm and festive gatherings that invite families to slow down, bundle up and celebrate the season. This December, communities across the region are lighting the way with holiday events that capture the warmth, nostalgia and neighborly spirit of Christmas in The Natural State.

One of the season’s most beloved traditions returns December 12–13 as Historic Washington State Park hosts its 39th Annual Christmas & Candlelight celebration. Each year, thousands of luminaries line the walkways of the 19th-century village, transforming the historic grounds into a glowing Christmas tableau.

Throughout the afternoon, visitors can tour beautifully decorated homes, each adorned with natural greenery and handcrafted period-style décor that reflect the simplicity of early Arkansas Christmases. As dusk falls, the soft glow of candlelight, the sounds of live holiday music and the clip-clop of a horse-drawn surrey create an atmosphere that feels untouched by time. Williams’ Tavern Restaurant will also serve its holiday buffet from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., offering comfort food to round out the experience.

Just down the road, Texarkana comes to life with more than a dozen festive happenings through the Main Street Texarkana “Downtown in December” calendar. The city’s 41st Annual Christmas Parade steps off Dec. 1 at 7 p.m., filling downtown with marching bands, floats, dancers and seasonal cheer. Holiday shoppers can explore several open-house events, including Hart’s on Broad Christmas Open House on Dec. 5, or browse handcrafted gifts at the Holiday Arts Market at TRAHC Dec. 5–6. Families can enjoy photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus during the Southern Grace Boutique Christmas Open House on Dec. 6.

Whether you’re exploring candlelit pathways, listening to carolers, or taking in a parade wrapped in twinkling lights, Southwest Arkansas is full of ways to experience the joy of the season.

Seven counties of Great Holiday happenings, learn more at agsw.org.