Christmas in Arkansas is always a winter wonderland; with cold temperatures, hot chocolate, and lots of holiday cheer, it’s no wonder many travelers and locals come out to Christmas markets only found in the natural state. Be sure to add these 7 places to add to your holiday visit list.
Fayetteville
Holiday Market on the Downtown Square
Set for December 4th, 11th, and 18th, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., this annual event won’t disappoint. Hosted by the Fayetteville Farmer’s Market, there will be plenty of unique, handcrafted arts and baked goods on hand. Shoppers can expect to find holiday wreaths, along with other artisan crafts, along with live music and food trucks. Since it is hosted by the Farmer’s Market, there will also be seasonal veggies, cheeses, eggs, fruit, and meat for sale.
Holiday Madness
Inside the Northwest Arkansas Mall, this three-day event is the perfect opportunity to snag those last-minute gifts. Small businesses and local craftsmen and artisans will have their handmade items up for sale. Peruse the department stores in between stopping at the temporary booths for twice as much as holiday shopping fun.
Little Rock
Christmas Market
Head down to Main Street on December 16th to participate in this Christmas shopping opportunity. Running from 11: 00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m., at The Bernice Garden, there will be plenty of unique gifts, handmade treasures, and yummy eateries to take home. Browse all the merchandise from local bakers, artists, and craftsmen, all while getting in the holiday spirit.
Christmas Market Pop-Up Shop
In North Little Rock, on Pike Avenue, take advantage of this shopping opportunity. Being held on the same day as the event above, at Bernice Garden, there will be time to possibly browse both. This event is on the 16th as well, but the times are a bit different; this event runs from noon until 5:00 p.m. There will be freeze-dried treats, skincare and healthcare items, homemade pork skins, books, pre-made stockings, food, one-of-a-kind trinkets, and food. Also, home décor gifts, festive ornaments, stylish accessories, and unique jewelry options can be browsed. Support the local businesses while searching for that perfect gift.
Fort Smith
Countdown to Christmas 2023
For ten days, shoppers can visit the Countdown to Christmas at the Central Mall. Located within the main mall concourses, guests can browse all the pop-up vendor stations. On hand will be a variety of holiday gifts, one-of-a-kind creations from craftsmen and artists alike. Food vendors will also be on hand, allowing samples to be tried before purchasing. Make plans to visit one or all of the ten days, ranging from December 14th to the 24th.
Bentonville Christmas Markets
Winter Street Fair
Sunday, December 10th, the place to be is downtown Bentonville. In the parking lot between Oli + Meg and Pedaler’s Pub, from 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m., there will be more than a dozen craftsmen and artisans set up and ready to sell their unique gifts.
Locally made gifts can be purchased, while the kids can enjoy a free ice cream. Coffee and cocktails will be available for purchase. Admission is free.
Elkins
Goshen Farmers Market Holiday Market
Returning this year on Saturday, December 9th, from 9:00 a.m. until noon, the town’s favorite local artists and farmers will be set up and ready to greet guests. Get those last-minute gifts while browsing local talent and products. Gift baskets, fresh produce, and plenty of unique, handmade items will be available for purchase, just in time to get them under the tree for Christmas morning.
These seven Christmas markets are upcoming events that will hopefully brighten your holiday a bit, while displaying that perfect gift for someone-or for yourself.
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