It’s our final event roundup of the year, and we’re going out in festive style to make sure you have a wonderful Christmastime. Let’s get into it.
Thursday, Dec. 18
“Song Sung Blue” at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts // As part of the Arkansas Cinema Society’s Sneak Series, attendees will be among the first to see this film (that’s already getting award buzz) following the real-life journey of a Neil Diamond tribute band starring Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson. Showtime is 6:30 p.m. Learn more here.
Friday, Dec. 19
Third Friday Art Walk in Argenta // This monthly walk invites you to stroll through the Argenta Arts District’s lineup of special exhibits and events. Highlights include the annual Mid-Southern Watercolorists Open Member Exhibit and pet photos with Santa at Argenta Library and an open studio with Sibling Rivalry Press, Bang-Up Betty and Lee Lee Arts + Design. Art Walk starts at 5 p.m. Learn more here.
Christmas Movie Marathon at Sterling Market // Tinseltown is calling. The East Village restaurant is getting into the spirit with back-to-back holiday flicks in The Alley. The lineup has yet to be announced, but you’ll definitely want to hit the winter cocktail menu while you’re there. It starts at 6 p.m. Learn more here. Bonus: Come back on Sunday for Christmas brunch.
Saturday, Dec. 20
Ugly Sweater Race at Two Rivers Park // Avert thine eyes or bask in the ugly glory — it’s runner’s choice. Created by the team behind the Little Rock Marathon, this 5K is back and encourages runners to show up in their holiday worst in exchange for a custom finisher’s medal and some silly fun. Go time is 9 a.m. Learn more here. Bonus: Not enough action for you? Jump into the Raid the Rock Adventure Race.
Keep moving: Local Runs to Keep You on Your Toes This Winter
Holiday Open House at Pettaway Square // The festivities are in full swing over in this cheery little neighborhood. Shops will offer discounts and fun alongside The Market at Pettaway, then top it off with a holiday dance party at The Commons at Pettaway. It all starts at 10 a.m.
Holiday Activities in Scott // Just a short drive from downtown, two state parks and sites are hosting some hands-on fun. The Plantation Agriculture Museum has its Merry Makers Craft Day with crafting and cocoa for the whole family from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Then the neighboring Plum Bayou Mounds Archeological State Park will host a winter solstice celebration with a special guided tour, bonfire and s’mores starting at 3:30 p.m.
Want more time away from city lights? Hit these nearby hikes in the metro.
Saturday Shop Vintage Market at The Bernice Garden // In SoMa, the vintage vibes are back at Bernice for the December edition of this recurring neighborhood event. Expect vendors with throwback fashions, decor and art. Come shop 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Learn more here.
East Village Art Market Christmas Pop-Up at The Rail Yard // Over in East Village, this monthly market invites guests to “sip, shop and stay a while,” which will be no problem thanks to this very merry lineup of vendors, music, food and drinks. Stop by noon – 4 p.m. Learn more here.
“Christmas Classics” at the Albert Pike Masonic Center // This is how you set the mood for the most wonderful time of the year. As part of the traveling Candlelight Concert series, this show promises your favorite carols and holiday movie songs played by the Listeso String Quartet, all while surrounded by (flameless) candles. Catch the show at 4:15 and 6:30 p.m. Learn more here.
Thursday – Saturday, Dec.18-20
Classic Movies at Ron Robinson Theater // The popcorn is flowing once again at the CALS theater in the River Market. Up first is “Elf” on Thursday and a BingoFlix screening of “Gremlins” on Friday, both at 7 p.m. Then on Saturday is “Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas” at 12:30 p.m., followed by “The Sound of Music” at 2:30 p.m. and “It’s a Wonderful Life” at 7 p.m. Learn more here.
Thursday – Sunday, Dec. 18-21
“Holiday Radio Live” at the Arkansas Repertory Theatre // Don’t touch that dial. This “sleigh ride through the season’s airwaves” promises holiday tunes and tales with local legends and special guests taking the stage. Learn more here.
Up next: Arkansas Repertory Theatre Announces 50th Anniversary Season
Friday – Sunday, Dec. 19-21
“Home for the Holidays” at the Robinson Center // Ho ho ho, ASO. The Arkansas Symphony Orchestra is bringing merriment to the masses with the return of this annual concert. The production will showcase holiday favorites like “The First Noel” and “Joy to the World,” as well as vocalists Bijoux and Stephanie Smittle. Show up early to get in on activities like arts and crafts in the lobby, caroling and Santa visits. You have three chances to catch the show: 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, or 3 p.m. Sunday. Learn more here.
P.S. Don’t forget about these holiday shows still on local stages: “Junie B. in Jingle Bells, Batman Smells!” at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts, “A Christmas Story: The Musical” at Argenta Contemporary Theatre and “A Charlie Brown Christmas” at Wildwood Park for the Arts.
Saturday & Sunday, Dec. 20 & 21
Brunch with Santa // Feasting with the big guy before the big day? It doesn’t get more jolly than that. Head to Rosie’s Pot & Kettle Cafe for a pajama pancake breakfast starting at 8 a.m. on Saturday or don your best ugly sweater for brunch at Southern Tail from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Sunday.
Need to track him down elsewhere? Here’s where to find Santa in Little Rock.