Jonesboro families can look forward to the return of the beloved Christmas at the Park holiday lights display, which will open on Thanksgiving night at Joe Mack Campbell Park. The season‑long event runs from Nov. 26 through Dec. 24 and promises more than half a mile of illuminated pathways, featuring over 400,000 lights.
Drive‑through and Village Options
Organizers are offering $10 drive‑through admission on select evenings, allowing visitors to view the dazzling displays from the comfort of their vehicles. On those nights, Santa’s Village will remain closed. When the Village is open, admission rises to $20 or $25 per vehicle, depending on the date, and some activities carry additional fees. Online or gate‑side card purchases include a small booking fee, as noted on the event’s website.
Classic and New Attractions
Returning favorites include the iconic Snowflake Forest, a 300‑foot lighted tunnel, and appearances by Arkansas State University mascots Howl and Scarlet. Santa’s Village will bring back the Jingle Express train, a petting zoo, and scheduled visits with Santa himself. New additions this year feature an inflatable obstacle course, a mechanical bull, and a slime bar available on select evenings.
Community Activities
Local readers are invited to share holiday stories near the towering 30‑foot Christmas tree on Sunday evenings, and the park will light the tree on opening night. A charitable Santa Shuffle Fun Run benefiting Rock Steady Boxing is slated for Dec. 8. On Christmas Eve, the first 200 children to visit Santa will receive a special gift.
Hours and Dates
Through Dec. 17, the park will be open from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and until 9:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. From Dec. 18 through Christmas Eve, nightly hours extend to 9:30 p.m. Visitors should consult the event calendar for specific drive‑through‑only dates and any weather‑related adjustments.
How to Attend
Tickets can be purchased online or at the gate. Families are encouraged to arrive early for the most popular evenings, especially the Thanksgiving night opening and the first night of the Village. With a mix of classic holiday traditions and fresh, family‑focused attractions, Christmas at the Park offers a safe, festive outing for Jonesboro residents of all ages.
Original reporting: NEA Report (Jonesboro) — read the source article.
