BATESVILLE, Ark. — Batesville's beloved holiday light display, White River Wonderland, will light up a new location this year as Riverside Park undergoes significant renovations. The temporary move shifts the annual celebration to the Batesville Community Center and nearby streets, where festivities begin Nov. 25.
The seasonal attraction, known for its dazzling light displays and family-friendly activities, will run nightly through Jan. 3, 2027, from 5 p.m. to midnight. Admission is free, though donations are welcome. Visitors can enjoy the illuminated trails and displays either on foot or from the comfort of their vehicles. Stroller- and wheelchair-accessible paths ensure the event is welcoming for all families.
Parking options will be available at the Batesville Community Center as well as designated spaces near the Sara Low Memorial Dog Park and Sutherland Park Municipal Golf Course.
The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting the event and will also present "Selfies with Santa" on weekends throughout the season. Families can meet Santa, take free holiday photos, and every child will receive a book to take home. Sponsors for this year’s Santa visits include Peco Foods, First Community Bank, Merchants & Planters Bank, George’s Ozark Mountain Poultry, and Centennial Bank.
Riverside Park, the event's usual venue, is currently undergoing a $25 million transformation and is set to reopen at the end of 2026. Scheduled upgrades include an event center with views of the White River, inclusive playgrounds, expanded walking and biking trails, a skate park, updated restrooms, and increased parking spaces. These improvements aim to make the park a more enjoyable and accessible destination for families.
According to Crystal Johnson, CEO of the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce, continuing the White River Wonderland tradition during the park's renovation ensures families can celebrate together. "For so many families, White River Wonderland is part of what makes Christmas feel like Christmas,” Johnson said. “Keeping that tradition alive gives families a familiar way to celebrate, spend time together, and make memories during a year of transition."
Mayor Rick Elumbaugh echoed the importance of the event, calling it a cornerstone of Batesville’s community identity. “While this year’s celebration is smaller in scale, keeping this tradition going means a great deal to us. Our crews are putting tremendous time and care into creating a holiday experience families can enjoy and be proud of," he said.
Landscape supervisor Johnathan Abbott, whose team worked to bring this year’s display to fruition, added, "We invite everyone to come out, enjoy the lights, and make some Christmas memories with us."
White River Wonderland is expected to return to its home at the revamped Riverside Park for the 2027 Christmas season. For more details and event updates, families are encouraged to visit the White River Wonderland webpage or follow its Facebook page.