Holiday Happenings in Downtown Bentonville
Holiday Happenings in Downtown Bentonville
Is November 1 too early to start celebrating Christmas? We’ll leave that debate for another day. Around here, we’re ready to get into the holiday spirit!
From festive activities to two of downtown’s biggest traditions, there’s plenty to look forward to this season. Whether you’re planning a fun outing with family and friends, or counting down to the moment the Square lights up, downtown Bentonville is the place to be.
Consider this your one-stop guide to celebrating the holidays downtown, featuring seasonal happenings, including the Lighting of the Square on November 21, the new Holiday Market on December 4, and the Bentonville Christmas Parade on December 12.
Downtown Bentonville is full of ways to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year! Mark your calendars for these seasonal happenings and make plans to enjoy a little holiday magic downtown.
Lighting of the Square - November 21 | 4:00-7:00 PM
Kick off the holiday season at one of downtown Bentonville’s signature traditions! Join the community as the Square lights up for the holidays and officially ushers in the most festive time of the year.
Grand Holiday Party at The Compton Hotel - December 1-2 | 6:00-10:00 PM
December 1 will be a high-energy, cocktail-style celebration from start to finish, while
December 2 will begin with a traditional holiday buffet before transitioning into a lively evening of music, dancing, and celebration.
Whether you're celebrating with colleagues, friends, or family, A Grand Holiday at The Compton brings the warmth of a private holiday party, without the planning or minimum spend. Simply reserve your seat, arrive, and celebrate!
Holiday Music with Candy Lee and Ashtyn Barbaree - December 3 | 6:00–8:00 PM
Add a little music to your holiday plans! Enjoy an evening of festive tunes with Candy Lee and Ashtyn Barbaree as downtown fills with the sounds of the season.
Holiday Market - December 4 | 5:00–10:00 PM
Get into the holiday spirit and shop for something special at the Holiday Market! It’s a great opportunity to browse seasonal finds and discover unique gifts while supporting local vendors.
Freedom Frosty 5K - December 5 | 8:00 AM
Trade your holiday shopping list for a race bib and get moving at the Freedom Frosty 5K! Whether you’re chasing a personal best or simply looking for a fun way to stay active during the holiday season, this festive race is one to add to your calendar.
Bentonville High School Choir Performance - December 10 | 6:00–8:00 PM
Nothing says the holidays quite like the sound of Christmas carols! Join us for a special performance by the Bentonville High School Choir and enjoy an evening filled with seasonal music.
Bentonville Christmas Parade - December 12 | 6:00 PM
Lights, camera, Christmas! Celebrate the magic of the season at the Bentonville Christmas Parade, where festive floats, holiday creativity, and community spirit come together for one of downtown’s most anticipated annual traditions.
Mrs. Claus at The Compton - December 12-13
Mrs. Claus will be passing around fresh baked FN Chocolate Chip Cookies Reading Twas the night before Christmas by the Fireplace and Mailing letters to Santa.
Storytime with Santa - December 17
Gather the little ones for a little holiday magic! Storytime with Santa is a festive opportunity for families to celebrate the season and enjoy a special story with everyone's favorite North Pole visitor.
Brunch with Santa - December 19-20 | 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Also set up downtown will be the Light the World Giving Machine, a unique vending experience that allows people to purchase local and international items for those in need. 100% of your donation goes to the item and charity of your choice starting November 19 - December 8. They will also be hosting events as well.
Highlights include:
The Giving Machine Grand Opening - November 19
The Giving Machine - Benton County Line Band - November 20 - 6:00-8:00 PM
The Giving Machine - Centerton State Choir - November 24 - 7:00-8:00 PM
The Giving Machine - BHS Chamber Quartet - November 25 - 6;00-7:00 PM
The Giving Machine - Joya Azteca Mariachi Band - November 28 - 12:00-1:30 PM
The Giving Machine - Write a Letter to Santa Day - December 2 - 12:00-5:00 PM
The Giving Machine - Children's Nativity Presentation - December 5 - 1:30-4:30 PM
The Giving Machine - Chanukah Lighting Ceremony - December 6 - 5:00-7:00 PM
Whether you're checking off your gift list, enjoying live holiday music, or gathering with the community for the Lighting of the Square and Bentonville Christmas Parade, downtown Bentonville has plenty of ways to make the season special.
Remember, these are just some of the amazing events happening in our downtown. Visit downtownbentonville.org for event updates, additional details, and more ways to explore downtown Bentonville this holiday season.
Happy holidays!