Your Guide to the Best Christmas and New Year’s Events in Eureka Springs for 2024

As the holiday season brings its festive magic to Eureka Springs, Arkansas, there’s no better time to plan your getaway to a cozy woodland retreat. Whether you’re visiting for Christmas lights, nostalgic train displays, or lively New Year’s Eve celebrations, Eureka Springs offers something for everyone. Here’s your ultimate guide to the most exciting events happening between December 27th and New Year’s Day.

Christmas in Eureka Springs: Sparkling Lights and Festive Fun

Passion Play Christmas Lights:

• When: December 27, 4:30 PM - 8:30 PM

• Where: 935 Passion Play Road

• Admission: By donation

The Passion Play Christmas Lights event is a must-see for holiday enthusiasts. Drive through a magical forest adorned with over 150 beautifully lit Christmas trees and dozens of nativities. The illuminated path leads to the iconic Christ of the Ozarks statue, creating a breathtaking backdrop for your holiday memories.

During the day, you can also explore the Holy Land, museums, and backstage tours of the Passion Play grounds (advance reservations required). This event runs through January 1st, so don’t miss the chance to experience the holiday cheer!

Snow Train Village:

• When: December 27 - December 29, 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM

• Where: Great Passion Play Grounds, 935 Passion Play Road

• Admission: $5 per person; kids under 5 are free

Step back in time at the Snow Train Village, featuring the largest train village display in the South! This nostalgic exhibit transports you to a 1930s-1950s small-town America with over 300 miniature buildings, Lionel O scale trains, and a Polar Express train. Perfect for families, this enchanting display will delight train enthusiasts of all ages.

Christmas With the Rosses [Live Theater]

• When: December 27-28, 7:00 PM - 8:15 PM

• Where: Melonlight Ballroom, 2 Pine Street

• Tickets: Limited seating; advanced reservations recommended

Looking for a heartwarming holiday show? "Christmas With the Rosses" is an unexpected comedy that combines nostalgic charm with a touch of modern humor. Set in a 60’s sitcom-style Brooklyn brownstone, this live theater experience will leave you laughing and feeling the holiday spirit. Be sure to snag your tickets early for this limited engagement.

New Year’s Eve in Eureka Springs: Ringing in 2025 in Style

Eureka Springs New Year’s Celebration: A Bash with a Splash

• When: December 31, 2024, 7:00 PM - January 1, 2025, 12:15 AM

• Where: Basin Spring Park, 4 Spring Street

Celebrate New Year’s Eve in the heart of Eureka Springs with a night packed with entertainment. The evening kicks off with a carnival-style parade at 8 PM, followed by live performances from JukeBoxx Party Band and Fossils of Ancient Robots. Count down to midnight with an epic water drop, fireworks, and a vibrant laser light show.

Basin Spring Park’s historical charm and festive energy make it the perfect spot to welcome 2025 with your loved ones.

Inn of the Ozarks New Year’s Eve Party: Denim & Dancing

• When: December 31, 2024, 6:00 PM - January 1, 2025, 12:30 AM

• Where: Best Western Inn of the Ozarks

This year’s theme, “Denim & Dancing,” invites you to enjoy an elegant yet laid-back evening filled with great food, live music, and dancing. The full package includes lodging, dinner, and party access, making it an all-in-one way to celebrate the New Year.

Highlights include a prime rib buffet dinner, champagne toast at midnight, and live entertainment from the Restless Natives band.

Champagne & Stardust: A NYE Soirée feat. The Bad Jacksons

• When: December 31, 8:00 PM - January 1, 1:00 AM

• Where: Missy’s White Rabbit Lounge, 19 1/2 Spring Street

Dress to impress for a night of glitz and glamour at the Champagne & Stardust Soirée. With live music by The Bad Jacksons starting at 9 PM, this chic event promises an unforgettable New Year’s Eve experience.

The party also coincides with the Basin Park celebrations, so you can stroll between venues while enjoying the festive atmosphere. Don’t forget your sparkliest attire for the midnight champagne toast!

Why Visit Eureka Springs This Holiday Season?

Eureka Springs is more than a holiday destination; it’s an experience. Nestled in the Ozarks, this charming Victorian town combines history, art, and natural beauty. Whether you’re strolling through the illuminated streets, enjoying live entertainment, or sipping champagne under the stars, Eureka Springs offers the perfect setting for holiday memories.

Make Your Visit Unforgettable

For those looking to truly relax, consider staying at a woodland retreat. Enjoy the serene surroundings of the Ozarks while being just a short drive from the festive happenings in town. Book your stay early, as the holiday season is one of Eureka Springs’ busiest times of the year.

Conclusion

This holiday season, Eureka Springs is your destination for Christmas lights, live theater, train displays, and unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebrations. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or your significant other, there’s something special waiting for you in this enchanting town.

Pack your bags, plan your itinerary, and let Eureka Springs be the backdrop for your holiday memories this year!

FAQs

1. What are the best family-friendly events in Eureka Springs this holiday season?The Passion Play Christmas Lights and Snow Train Village are fantastic options for families with kids of all ages.

2. Are reservations required for any of these events?Yes, reservations are recommended for the Holy Land tours and the live theater show, "Christmas With the Rosses."

3. What should I wear to the New Year’s Eve events?For the “Denim & Dancing” party, denim is optional but welcomed. For the Champagne & Stardust Soirée, dress in your best sparkly or formal attire.

4. Are there any free events?The Passion Play Christmas Lights are a donation-based event, making it accessible to all.

5. Can I bring children to New Year’s Eve celebrations?While some events are family-friendly, others, like the Champagne & Stardust Soirée, are more suited for adults.

6. What is the best way to get around Eureka Springs during the holidays?Eureka Springs is a walkable town, but having a car is recommended for visiting venues outside the downtown area.