JONESBORO, Ark. — Christmas at the Park will return to Joe Mack Campbell Park in Jonesboro on Thanksgiving night, offering festive light displays and family activities through Christmas Eve.
Running from Nov. 26 through Dec. 24 at 600 Harry Drive, the event features a half-mile route lit by over 400,000 lights, including popular displays such as Snowflake Forest, a 300-foot light tunnel, and depictions of Arkansas State University mascots Howl and Scarlet.
On selected "drive-through-only" nights, admission is $10 per vehicle, and Santa’s Village will be closed. When Santa’s Village is open, admission costs range from $20 to $25 per vehicle, depending on the date. Certain attractions within the village may require additional fees. Event organizers note that online or gate purchases made by card will include a booking fee.
Santa’s Village returns this year with familiar features like the Jingle Express train, a petting zoo, and visits with Santa. New additions include an inflatable obstacle course, a mechanical bull, and a slime-making bar, which will be available on specific nights. Local readers will also share holiday stories near the event’s 30-foot Christmas tree on Sunday evenings.
The tree-lighting ceremony is planned for opening night. On Dec. 8, the Santa Shuffle Fun Run will take place, with proceeds benefiting Rock Steady Boxing. On Christmas Eve, organizers plan to give the first 200 children visiting Santa a gift.
Through Dec. 17, the park will be open from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and until 9:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. From Dec. 18 through Dec. 24, hours will extend to 9:30 p.m. nightly. Guests are encouraged to visit the event's online calendar for updates on drive-through-only dates and potential weather-related changes.
Additional information, including ticket purchases, is available on the event’s website.