Your holiday season resource for Fort Smith is here! Explore our comprehensive guide for all the best events and activities. From Fort Smith natives to seasonal visitors, our guide ensures you don't miss a moment of yuletide joy.
Experience the magic of the season with the Fort Smith Christmas Parade, a delightful procession filled with festive floats and holiday cheer. Ride the enchanting rails and create unforgettable memories on the magical The Polar Express Train Ride. And the Winter Wonderland at Creekmore Park is something you definitely don’t want to miss, with dazzling light displays and holiday decorations. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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The Top Christmas Events in Fort Smith
- Fort Smith Christmas Parade
- Winter Wonderland at Creekmore Park
- Christmas Honors Wreath Laying
- Christmas Market at the Bakery District
Fort Smith Holiday Light Displays
Winter Wonderland at Creekmore Park
What to Expect:
Miniature train ride through illuminated displays
Description:
Creekmore Park transforms into a dazzling holiday destination with its Winter Wonderland event. The park's miniature train, a beloved local attraction since 1949, takes visitors on a captivating journey through twinkling light displays. Families can ice skate on the temporary rink, a rare treat in this region. The event honors Fort Smith's commitment to public spaces, as Creekmore Park has been a centerpiece of community recreation for over a century.
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Winter Wonderland at Creekmore Park
Fort Smith Holiday Markets and Shopping
Christmas Market at the Bakery District
What to Expect:
Artisanal market in a repurposed industrial space
Description:
The Christmas Market at the Bakery District infuses new life into Fort Smith's historic industrial area. Local artisans and craftspeople showcase unique, handmade gifts in this reimagined space. The aroma of freshly baked goods wafts through the air, tempting visitors with seasonal treats. Shoppers can participate in hands-on workshops to create their own holiday decorations. This event celebrates Fort Smith's ongoing urban renewal efforts, breathing new purpose into the city's architectural heritage.
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Christmas Market at the Bakery District
Fort Smith Holiday Giving Opportunities
Christmas Honors Wreath Laying
What to Expect:
Solemn ceremony honoring veterans during the holiday season
Description:
Christmas Honors Wreath Laying ceremony at the Fort Smith National Cemetery pays tribute to fallen heroes. Volunteers carefully place evergreen wreaths adorned with red bows on each grave, creating a poignant visual tribute. The solemn atmosphere is punctuated by the crisp winter air. Participants can assist in laying wreaths, connecting with the stories of those who served. This event reflects Fort Smith's deep military ties, dating back to its founding as a western frontier military post in 1817.
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Christmas Honors Wreath Laying
Fort Smith Other Holiday Activities
Fort Smith Christmas Parade
What to Expect:
Community-driven parade with local floats and performers
Description:
The Fort Smith Christmas Parade transforms downtown into a lively spectacle of holiday cheer. Local businesses, schools, and organizations craft imaginative floats that showcase the city's creativity. As you watch, the sound of marching bands fills the air with seasonal tunes. This beloved tradition dates back to the 1950s, reflecting Fort Smith's strong community spirit. Visitors can join in the fun by decorating themselves with festive attire and cheering on the parade participants.
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Nearby Events
The Polar Express Train Ride (Van Buren)
What to Expect:
Immersive train ride experience based on the popular book and movie
Description:
The Polar Express Train Ride whisks passengers away on a journey through the Arkansas River Valley. Authentic vintage railcars, meticulously restored, transport riders back in time. During the trip, characters from the story come to life, engaging passengers in an interactive adventure. You'll savor the taste of rich hot chocolate served by dancing chefs. This unique experience pays homage to Van Buren's rich railroad history, which played a crucial role in the town's development.
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A Christmas Carol Performance (Van Buren)
What to Expect:
Intimate theater production in a historic setting
Description:
A Christmas Carol comes to life in Van Buren's historic King Opera House. This intimate production transports audiences to Victorian-era London with authentic costumes and set designs. The theater's excellent acoustics amplify every word of Dickens' timeless tale. You can explore the beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture of the venue before the show. The performance continues a long tradition of theatrical arts in Van Buren, with the King Opera House serving as a cultural landmark since 1891.