October

What: Pumpkin Hollow Corn Mazes
When: through Oct. 31
Where: Piggott
At Arkansas’s original cornfield mazes, begin the maze adventure by catching a hayride to the entrance. Two mazes are featured with different difficulty levels, one for children and beginners, the other larger and more difficult. Challenges abound for this year's visitors as they attempt to navigate their way back “home.” Howls may be heard this season as visitors prowl their way through the paths of ASU’s new Red Wolves logo. Flashlight nights on Saturdays and by reservation for groups on other nights are held. Campfires and wiener roasts available by reservation for groups of 10 or more.
Info: (870) 598-3568, or visit www.pumpkinhollow.com

What: 22nd Annual World Championship Crystal Dig
When: Oct. 9–11
Where: Mount Ida
World championship Crystal Dig is a three-day event of digging for the winning clusters and points at crystal mines of Mount Ida. It’s a family event and exciting learning experience for all. Admission is $75 per participant for three days; after Oct. 1, the fee is $90. The winners will share $1,500 in prize money and crystal trophies.
Info: (870) 867-2723, or visit www.mtidachamber.com

What: 23rd Annual Arkansas Blues and Heritage Festival
When: Oct. 9–11
Where: Historic Downtown-Cherry Street, Helena-West Helena
Previously known as the King Biscuit Blues Festival, the event draws thousands of fans to the land of the Delta blues. This is the largest free blues festival in the nation and one of the most respected music festivals. Four stages and 78 performers create a living celebration to the blues on the banks of the Mississippi River. Admission is free.
Info: (870) 995-6569, or visit www.bluesandheritage.com

What: 63rd Annual Turkey Trot
When: Oct. 10–11
Where: Yellville
At this fall Ozark Mountain homecoming, celebrate the region’s heritage and the wild turkey at the oldest wild turkey calling contest in the nation. There will be a parade, quilt show, 5K run, lip sync contest, pizza gobble, art show, turkey dinner, Miss Turkey Trot and Miss Drumsticks beauty pageants, live musical entertainment, food and craft booths. Admission is free; $5 fee for pageant and National Wild Turkey Calling contest and $8 for Turkey dinner.
Info: (870) 449-4676, or visit www.yellville.com

What: 24th Annual Quartz, Quiltz and Craftz Festival
When: Oct. 10–12
Where: Montgomery County Fairgrounds, Mount Ida
This gem and mineral show, craft, arts and quilt show is held in conjunction with the World Championship Crystal Dig. This three-day event offers a wide variety of vendors, a Kids' Dig on Saturday at 2 p.m., jewelry, quilts, crafts gems and more. Admission is free.
Info: (870) 867-2723, or visit www.mtidachamber.com

What: 68th Annual Arkansas State Fair
When: Oct. 10–19
Where: Arkansas State Fair Complex, Little Rock
The Arkansas State Fair features free concerts, children's shows, exciting attractions, and four PRCA Rodeo performances. A 10-acre midway is filled with carnival rides, games, amusements and more than 50 food booths. Livestock shows with more than 10,000 entries are held throughout the fair. Admission is $8 for adults, $4 for children and seniors, and free for children under 6.
Info: (501) 372-8341, or visit www.arkansasstatefair.com

What: Fire on the Mountain: Hammerfest X
When: Oct. 11
Where: Ozark Folk Center State Park, Mountain View
Hammerfest features demonstrations by well-known blacksmiths, as well as competitions and awards. Blacksmiths are encouraged to bring items to enter in the “people’s choice” competition. The event will take place from 10 a.m.–5 p.m., and regular park admission fee applies.
Info: (870) 269-3851, or visit www.ozarkfolkcenter.com

What: Second Saturday Gallery Stroll
When: Oct. 11
Where: Lower Spring Street, Eureka Springs
Seek out gifts, or perhaps tomorrow's heirloom, from the more than 751 fine artists and craftmen represented in the 11 galleries of the Eureka Springs Gallery Associates along lower Spring Street. Look for the colorful banners for “Second Saturday Gallery Stroll.” Admission is free, and the event will be held from 6–9 p.m.
Info: (479) 253-7679, or visit www.artofeureka.com

What: Saturday Discoveries at the Museum of Discovery
When: Oct. 11
Where: Museum of Discovery, Little Rock
Saturday Discoveries is a great way to learn more about science through hands-on activities and experiments. A different theme is held each program, so attend one or attend them all! Saturday Discoveries is held from 1–4 p.m. and is open to children in grades kindergarten through sixth. Call ahead for reservations. October’s program is on the convergence of art and science.
Info: (501) 396-7061, or visit www.amod.org

What: Fall Fest
When: Oct. 11–12
Where: Historic Main Street, Van Buren
Autumn is welcomed in old-fashioned style as Van Buren opens historic Main Street for the Fall Festival. More than 200 exhibitors from more than seven states converge on the town. There will also be a variety of food and entertainment plus a children’s carnival. Admission is free.
Info: (479) 474-5155, or visit www.vanburen.org

What: 22nd Annual Ole Applegate Place Arts & Crafts Festival at Mulberry Mountain
When: Oct. 15–19
Where: Mulberry Mountain, Ozark
Set in the very heart of the Arkansas Ozark Mountains, the Ole Applegate Place Arts & Crafts Festival is host to hundreds of exhibitors from around the nation, making it one of the Ozarks largest gatherings of artists and craftsmen. In addition to shopping, visitors can also enjoy hiking trails, waterfalls, fishing lakes, live music, great food, horse carriage rides and much more. Admission is $3.
Info: (479) 667-1919, or visit www.oleapplegateplace.com

What: 40th Annual Bella Vista Arts & Crafts Festival
When: Oct. 16–18
Where: Bella Vista
More than 300 carefully juried exhibitors show and sell their arts and crafts in five large tents and more than 100 individual tents. There will be a wide variety of foods, free entertainment under large tent, a fine arts market and many demonstrations each day. The festival grounds are located on Highway 279 just south of the Highway 340 intersection. Admission and parking are free.
Info: (479) 855-2064, or visit bellavistafestival.org

What: War Eagle Mill Arts & Crafts Fair
When: Oct. 16–19
Where: War Eagle Mill, Rogers
A juried selection of craftsmen from throughout the United States will sell and demonstrate their wares. Numerous food booths and live music also will be featured. The Mill opens at 6:30 a.m. serving full country breakfast. Admission is free.
Info: (866) 492-7324, www.wareaglemill.com

What: Ozark Arts & Crafts Fair at War Eagle
When: Oct. 16–19
Where: War Eagle Mills Farm, Hindsville
This arts and crafts fair is set in the Ozark Mountains, all of the exhibitors made the crafts by hand and are on site to display them. Parking and admission are free.
Info: (479) 789-5398, or visit www.wareaglefair.com

What: Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge Arts & Crafts Fair
When: Oct. 16–19
Where: Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, Eureka Springs
Located seven miles south of Eureka Springs on Scenic Highway 23 South, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge will host dozens of art and crafts vendors on the main plateau of the refuge in a beautiful setting overlooking the surrounding Ozark Mountains. Admission is free.
Info: (479) 253-5841, or visit www.turpentinecreek.org

What: 16th Annual Eagle Watch on Beaver Lake
When: Oct. 17–19
Where: Eureka Springs
Welcome bald eagles as they return to Beaver Lake for their fall and winter habitat. Enjoy spectacular fall foliage as experienced guides help spot the eagles and describe their features and habits. Cruise aboard Belle of the Ozarks to see a dozen points of interest, including a 200-acre game preserve island. Departures are from Starkey Park at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. Cruises are $20 for adults and $8 for children under 12.
Info: (800) 552-3803, or visit www.estc.net/belle

What: Andy Warhol: 15 Weeks of Fame
When: Oct. 17–Feb. 1, 2009
Where: Arkansas Arts Center, Little Rock
This three-part exhibition features 63 iconic silkscreen prints that propelled Warhol to the front of the 1960s pop art phenomenon. The exhibition also features drawings and objects created by Warhol including his 1964 Brillo Boxes, a triple portrait of Marilyn Monroe, and the Silver Clouds room.
Info: (501) 372-4000, or visit www.arkarts.com

What: Rendezvous and Fall Festival
When: Oct. 18–19
Where: Pinnacle Mountain State Park, Little Rock
Step back in time with mountain man and pioneer re-enactors, Native Americans, park interpreters and volunteers for a fall rendezvous and festival. There will be lots of hands-on activities, food, music and fun from 9 a.m.–6 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m.–5 p.m. on Sunday. Parking is $7 per vehicle.
Info: (501) 868-5806, or visit www.arkansasstateparks.com

What: 26th Annual Bean Fest and Great Arkansas Championship Outhouse Races
When: Oct. 23–25
Where: Mountain View
Beans and cornbread, music, dancing, handmade crafts and outrageous outhouse races are the highlights of this event. The “Bean Fest Cooking Champion” will be crowned, and watch the next generation of Outhouse Racers compete as the kids take their seats in pedal powered outhouses. The KWOZ talent show is held on the Square after the outhouse races.
Info: (888) 679-2859, or visit www.YourPlaceintheMountains.com

What: 12th Annual Civil War Weekend
When: Oct. 24–26
Where: DeGray Lake Resort State Park, Bismarck
Journey back in time to see how Billy Yank and Johnny Reb lived during the battle between the North and the South. Enjoy living history demonstrations, skirmishes and conversations with re-enactors. Friday is School Day with groups attending by reservation only.
Info: (501) 865-2801, or visit www.degray.com

What: Fall Foliage Cruises
When: Oct. 25–26
Where: Pinnacle Mountain State Park, Little Rock
Enjoy the beautiful fall foliage of the surrounding hills on cruises of Lake Maumelle near Pinnacle Mountain. A park interpreter will serve as your guide. Three cruises are offered each day, departing at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. Advance registration and payment required. Contact the park for further details. Admission: $10 adults, $5 children ages 6-12, under 6 ride free.
Info: (501) 868-5806, or visit www.arkansasstateparks.com

What: Big Boo!-seum Bash
When: Oct. 31
Where: Historic Arkansas Museum, Little Rock
Looking for a safe alternative to neighborhood trick-or-treating? This annual event from 5:30–8:30 p.m. offers kids a haunted peek into Historic Arkansas Museum. Bring your candy bucket for free treats, and when you’re done, catch one of the Central Arkansas Transit (CAT) buses giving free rides to all participating museums, including the Old State House Museum, Arkansas Arts Center, Museum of Discovery and more.
Info: (501) 324-9304, or visit www.arkansashistory.com

November

What: Fall Foliage Festival
When: Nov. 1–2
Where: Lake Ouachita State Park, Mountain Pine
Autumn in Arkansas is usually marked by fantastic fall foliage. This weekend we will offer lake tours, guided hikes and other programs to help you discover some of Arkansas’s splendid natural beauty.
Info: (501) 767-9366, or visit www.arkansasstateparks.com

What: Civil War Weekend
When: Nov. 1–2
Where: Historic Washington State Park, Washington
The American Civil War was one of the most trying times in our nation’s history. This weekend, you will be exposed to the beginning days of the war as it unfolded in southwest Arkansas. Re-enactors from all over the region will present living history demonstrations throughout the weekend. Programs are free. Tours of the many historical homes and buildings of Washington, and surrey rides, are available at regular price. Festivities will take place from 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Info: (870) 983-2684, or visit www.HistoricWashingtonStatePark.com

What: Fall Bluegrass Festival
When: Nov. 6–8
Where: Ozark Folk Center State Park, Mountain View
This annual event is held at the Ozark Folk Center and sponsored by the Mountain View Blue Grass Association. Indoor and outdoor jam sessions will be held in the Ozark Folk Center Auditorium and around the grounds in Mountain View. Tickets are $15 per day or $40 for three days.
Info: (870) 269-3851, or visit www.ozarkfolkcenter.com

What: 61st Annual Original Ozark Folk Festival
When: Nov. 6–9
Where: Eureka Springs
This is one of the oldest and longest-running folk festivals in the country. The mammoth, city-wide event starts Thursday night with the Queens Contest, then continues through Sunday with performances in The Auditorium and various venues throughout town. There will be a parade on Saturday at 2 p.m. Entertainment information will be posted as it becomes available.
Info: (888) 855-7823, or visit www.ozarkfolkfestival.com/

What: Gallery Walk
When: Nov. 7
Where: Downtown Hot Springs
Stroll beautiful downtown Hot Springs and enjoy some of the finest contemporary art in America. The art galleries that sparkle like a fine necklace in the heart of the Victorian downtown district stay open until 9pm, often with music and complimentary refreshments. Admission is free.
Info: (501) 624-0550, or visit www.hotsprings.org

What: 3rd Annual Old Fort Celtic Festival
When: Nov. 7–8
Where: Fort Smith Convention Center
From 1–11 p.m., enjoy live music, shopping, Irish dancers, workshops. Bring the family and celebrate your Celtic heritage. There will be several bands, loads of fun, performances by the McCafferty School of Irish Dance and others. Shop vendors for that special gift. Attend a genealogy workshop or learn to play the tin whistle.
Info: (479) 420-7001

What: Saturday Discoveries at the Museum of Discovery
When: Nov. 8
Where: Museum of Discovery, Little Rock
Saturday Discoveries is a great way to learn more about science through hands-on activities and experiments. A different theme is held each program, so attend one or attend them all! Saturday Discoveries is held from 1–4 p.m. and is open to children in grades kindergarten through sixth. Call ahead for reservations. November’s program is on the science of scents.
Info: (501) 396-7061, or visit www.amod.org

What: Second Saturday Gallery Stroll
When: Nov. 8
Where: Lower Spring Street, Eureka Springs
With the holidays around the corner, plan to explore the 11 fine art and fine craft galleries of the Eureka Springs Gallery Associates, all open 6 to 9 p.m. Shop at leisure amidst authentically restored vintage 1890 Victorian buildings on lower Spring Street with one a few steps away on Center Street. Admission is free.
Info: (479) 253-7679, or visit www.artofeureka.com

What: 28th Annual Craftsfest
When: Nov. 14–15
Where: Baxter County Fairgrounds, Mountain Home
This juried craft show will feature non-commercial crafters showing and selling unique handcrafted items. Breakfast, lunch and snacks will be available. There will be drawings for gift certificates during the show.
Info: (870) 424-5710, or visit http://www.ozarksites.com/calendar.php

What: 12th Annual Enchanted Land of Lights & Legends
When: Nov. 18–Dec. 31
Where: Pine Bluff/Jefferson Co. Regional Park, Pine Bluff
One of the state’s largest drive-through holiday light displays covers 1.2 miles of Regional Park, which becomes a winter wonderland. Enjoy the show from the comfort of your vehicle from 6–9 p.m. nightly. Admission is free, but donations are accepted.
Info: (800) 536-7660, or visit www.pineblufffestival.org/home

What: 7th Annual Dazzle Daze
When: Nov. 20–22
Where: Don Owen Sports Center, Conway
This three-day holiday shopping event features more than 60 merchants from around the country. Events include: Girl's Nite Out Preview Party on Nov. 20 from 6–9 p.m.; general shopping on Nov. 21 from 10 a.m.–8 p.m. and Nov. 22 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; and Breakfast with the Clauses on Nov. 22 from 8:30 a.m.–10 a.m. General admission is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors and free for children under 12.
Info: (501) 513-5771, or visit www.dazzledaze.com

What: Hayride and Campfire
When: Nov. 22–23
Where: Pinnacle Mountain State Park, Little Rock
Enjoy a fun-filled hayride as we explore woods and fields. You'll enjoy the unspoiled scenery of the park’s hills and valleys. Afterwards warm up with a roaring campfire and treats. Advance payment required. Limited seating available. The event is held from 5–6:30 p.m. Meet at the Pinnacle Mountain State Park visitor center. Admission is $8 for adult and $4 for children ages 12 and under.
Info: (501) 868-5806, or visit www.arkansasstateparks.com

What: 73rd Annual World's Championship Duck Calling Contest and Wings Over The Prairie Festival
When: Nov. 22–29
Where: Downtown Stuttgart on Main Street
There will be duck calling contests, Queen Mallard Pageant, duck gumbo cook-off, arts and crafts, commercial exhibits, off-road vehicles, carnival, Great 10K Duck Race and more. Most events are free.
Info: (870) 673-1602, or visit www.stuttgartarkansas.com

What: 13th Annual Lights of the Delta
When: Nov. 25–Dec. 27
Where: Arkansas Aeroplex and downtown Blytheville
A family tradition since 1995, 6 million lights in a 1.5 mile drive-thru create an award-winning lighting display and holiday experience. Hayrides are offered every night and pictures with Santa every weekend. There’s also a live Nativity and souvenir stand. Several new major displays will be added this year. Admission is $10 per vehicle and up.
Info: (870) 762-9788, or visit www.lightsofthedelta.com

What: 21st Annual Winter Wonderland Arts & Crafts Festival
When: Nov. 28–29
Where: Hot Springs Convention Center, Hot Springs
Enjoy this arts, crafts and gift show from 8 a.m.–5 p.m. at the convention center. More than 250 vendors display a variety of hand crafted items.
Info: (501) 262-3651, or visit www.hotsprings.org

What: 11th Annual Mountain Rendezvous
When: Nov. 28–30
Where: Petit Jean State Park, Morrilton
Enjoy a primitive mountain camp and learn some of the survival skills used by early Arkansans. Watch a variety of demonstrations including muzzleloading rifles, tomahawk throwing and more. It is co-sponsored by the Early Arkansas Re-enactor Association. Admission is free.
Info: (501) 727-5441, or visit www.petitjeanstatepark.com

What: Caroling in the Caverns--A Christmas Concert
When: Nov. 29–Dec. 21
Where: Blanchard Springs Caverns, Mountain View
Marvel at the beauty of astonishing formations coupled with the sounds of caroling resounding through the caverns as musicians perform your favorite old-time Christmas songs. Shows are held on weekends, and reservations are required. Tickets are $17 per person.
Info: (888) 679-2859, or visit www.YourPlaceintheMountains.com

What: ArtBlast 2008
When: Nov. 29
Where: Hot Springs Convention Center, Hot Springs
This interactive, hands-on arts festival is for kids age 4-18 with 18,000 square feet of art activities. A collaboration of non-profit art organizations, the programs include painting, drawing, drum making, documentary filmmaking, poster contests, music activities, a treasure hunt and lots of fun for the entire family. The event will be held from 10 a.m.– 2p.m., and tickets are $5 each.
Info: (501) 625-3992, or visit www.artblasths.org

December

What: 24th Annual Rogers Community Christmas Parade
When: Dec. 1
Where: Rogers Historic Downtown District
Floats, marching bands, decorated cars, scout troops, choirs and Santa parade through historic downtown Rogers. Pre-parade entertainment includes local school and church group choirs, dance studios and more at many intersections beginning as early as 6:15 p.m. The parade begins at 7 p.m.
Info: (479) 936-5487, or visit www.mainstreetrogers.com

What: North Little Rock Holiday Lights Display
When: Dec. 1–30
Where: Burns Park, North Little Rock
This drive-thru display within Burns Park features lovely holiday lights and displays. Dashin' thru the Lights, a fun half-mile run/walk is generally held the second Saturday of the Lights Display. Admission is $5 per car, $10 for multi-passenger vans and $20 for motorcoaches. The display is held nightly from 6–10 p.m.
Info: (501) 753-7307, or visit www.northlittlerock.travel

What: 8th Annual Enchanted Forest & Holiday Trails of Lights
When: Dec. 1–30
Where: Sherwood Forest, Sherwood
A spectacular 1.5-mile drive-thru stretch of holiday lights with displays for the trail provided by the Sherwood A&P Commission, businesses and individuals. New displays are added each year. Admission is free but donations are accepted.
Info: (501) 835-8909

What: Gallery Walk
When: Dec. 5
Where: Downtown Hot Springs
Stroll beautiful downtown Hot Springs and enjoy some of the finest contemporary art in America. The art galleries that sparkle like a fine necklace in the heart of the Victorian downtown district stay open until 9 p.m., often with music and complimentary refreshments. Admission is free.
Info: (501) 624-0550, or visit www.hotsprings.org

What: Eureka Springs Christmas Parade
When: Dec. 5
Where: Downtown Eureka Springs
This evening parade features floats, walkers, bands and thousands of lights as it makes its way through downtown Eureka Springs. Admission is free.
Info: (800) 638-7352, or visit www.eurekaspringschamber.com

What: Mena Christmas Festival
When: Dec. 5
Where: Downtown Mena and Janssen Park
This delightful night parade features food vendors, fireworks, lighted displays, Santa, caroling and more. The parade starts at 6 p.m., and admission is free.
Info: (479) 394-8355, or visit www.visitmena.com

What: Mount Magazine State Park Winter Open House
When: Dec. 6
Where: Mount Magazine State Park, Paris
Enjoy the warm, festive atmosphere of the holiday season in the park. Begin your holiday shopping early in our gift shops. Discover winter wildlife outside the visitor center's wildlife viewing window and through interpreter-led programs. Children can learn about recycling and wildlife as they make gifts to take home. Free gift wrapping and light refreshments will be served courtesy of Mount Magazine Action Group volunteers. Admission is free.
Info: (479) 963-8502, or visit www.MountMagazineStatePark.com

What: Christmas Open House
When: Dec. 6
Where: Petit Jean State Park, Morrilton
See Petit Jean State Park dressed in its Christmas finery. Activities, crafts, and seasonal entertainment are planned for the afternoon at historic Mather Lodge. Rumor has it that Santa will be making an appearance to have his picture taken with the young at heart. Admission is free.
Contact: (501) 727-5441, or visit www.petitjeanstatepark.com

What: Arkansas State Capitol Lighting Ceremony
When: Dec. 6
Where: State Capitol Building, Little Rock
Join Secretary of State Charlie Daniels after the Big Jingle Jubilee Parade for the annual Capitol Lighting Ceremony featuring fireworks, music, children’s activities and more. Admission is free.
Info: (501) 682-1010, or visit www.littlerock.com

What: Christmas in the Wild
When: Dec. 6
Where: Little Rock Zoo
Children can meet Santa, enjoy cookies and milk, and make some fun crafts. Then, travel with Santa to give the animals some special Christmas presents. Reservations are required.
Info: (501) 661-7203, or visit www.littlerockzoo.com

What: Battle of Prairie Grove Re-enactment 1908-2008)
When: Dec. 6–7
Where: Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park, Prairie Grove
The park will commemorate the 146th anniversary of the Battle of Prairie Grove and the 100th Anniversary of Battlefield Park. Re-enactors and spectators can participate in guided tours through Union, Confederate, and civilian camps; various military drills; cooking, spinning, and lace-making demonstrations; and living history programs. Battle demonstrations begin at 1 p.m. each day, featuring charges and counterattacks by Union and Confederate infantry and cavalry, on the actual battlefield. Parking is $4 per vehicle.
Info: (479) 846-2990, or visit www.arkansasstateparks.com

What: 2nd Friday Art Night
When: Dec. 12
Where: Downtown Little Rock/River Market District
The 2nd Friday Art Night offers many great opportunities for art and movie lovers to enjoy in downtown Little Rock from 5–8 pm. Held monthly, this free after-hours event is open to the public. Each Art Night location has something special planned, and an Art Night shuttle will run a continuous loop, stopping at each gallery. Shuttle service ends at 8:30 pm.
Info: Visit www.2ndfridayartnight.com

What: 5th Annual Holiday Extravaganza
When: Dec. 12–13
Where: Baxter County Fairgrounds, Mountain Home
Great holiday gifts for everyone will be for sale, including crafts, baked goods, NASCAR memorabilia, kitchen items, Red Hat items, jewelry and more Face painting and pictures with Santa available. Hours are 8 a.m.–6 p.m. on Friday and 8 a.m.–4 p.m. on Saturday. Admission is free.
Info: (870) 425-9261

What: Second Saturday Gallery Stroll
When: Dec. 13
Where: Lower Spring Street, Eureka Springs
No where else within half a day's drive will you find, in just 11 fine art/fine galleries, more than 751 artists and craftsmen as represented by Eureka Springs Gallery Associates. Seek and find on downtown Spring Street with one just steps away on Center. The stroll takes place from 6– 9 p.m., and admission is free.
Info: (479) 253-7679, or visit www.artofeureka.com

What: Caroling in the Forest
When: Dec. 13
Where: Pinnacle Mountain State Park, Little Rock
Meet at the Kingfisher Trailhead for an easy, 1/4-mile stroll into the forest along a paved path. The path is stroller and wheelchair-friendly. Wear warm clothes, bring a flashlight and your best singing voice. Caroling will take place from 7–8:30 p.m. Admission is free.
Info: (501) 868-5806, or visit www.arkansasstateparks.com

What: Christmas in the Wild
When: Dec. 13
Where: Little Rock Zoo
Children can meet Santa, enjoy cookies and milk, and make some fun crafts. Then, travel with Santa to give the animals some special Christmas presents. Reservations are required.
Info: (501) 661-7203, or visit www.littlerockzoo.com

What: Saturday Discoveries at the Museum of Discovery
When: Dec. 13
Where: Museum of Discovery, Little Rock
Saturday Discoveries is a great way to learn more about science through hands-on activities and experiments. A different theme is held each program, so attend one or attend them all! Saturday Discoveries is held from 1–4 p.m. and is open to children in grades kindergarten through sixth. Call ahead for reservations. December’s program is about how animals survive their environments by adapting.
Info: (501) 396-7061, or visit www.amod.org

What: Winter Bird Cruise
When: Dec. 20–21
Where: Pinnacle Mountain State Park, Little Rock
Dress warmly and join a park interpreter for a guided boat cruise on Lake Maumelle near Pinnacle Mountain. You’ll look for winter birds and other wildlife, discuss the area’s unique geology, and just enjoy the scenery. Space is limited. Reservations and advance payment required. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 6–12. Cruises will be held from 1–2:45 p.m. and 3–4:30 p.m.
Info: (501) 868-5806, or visit www.arkansasstateparks.com

What: Christmas on the Mountain
When: Dec. 21–24
Where: Queen Wilhelmina State Park, Mena
For this family fun Christmas on the mountain, there will be wagon rides, tree decorating, crafts, caroling, concerts and more. Admission is free.
Info: (479) 394-2863, or visit www.queenwilhelmina.com

What: Holiday Hayride and Campfire
When: Dec. 27
Where: Pinnacle Mountain State Park, Little Rock
A park interpreter will be your guide on a chilly adventure through the woods. Afterward, warm up with hot chocolate and a toasty campfire. Wear warm clothes and bring blankets. Advance registration and payment required. Limited seating is available. The event takes place from 3–5 p.m. Admission is $8 for adults and $4 for children ages 12 and under.
Info: (501) 868-5806, or visit www.arkansasstateparks.com

What: Zoo Year’s Eve
When: Dec. 31
Where: Little Rock Zoo
Get “cat scratch fever” as you dance the night away at the Little Rock Zoo. Zoo Year's Eve is central Arkansas’s only formal New Year’s Eve event complete with live music, original decor, food from fine dining area restaurants, delicious beverages and a silent auction with some very special and very rare animal art. Doors open at 8 p.m. Tickets are $100 per person and all proceeds benefit the Arkansas Zoological Foundation.
Info: (501) 661-7208, or visit www.littlerockzoo.com

What: Annual Tinsel and Tails: A Celebration With Friends New Year’s Eve Gala
When: Dec. 31
Where: Holiday Inn City Center Ballroom, Fort Smith
At this New Year’s Eve celebration, enjoy hors d'oeuvres, dinner music, silent auction, live auction and a live band: Ultra Suede. There will be a midnight balloon drop, champagne toast and breakfast buffet. Proceeds benefit the Alzheimer's Association. Tickets are $100 per person.
Info: (479) 783-2022, or visit www.alz.org/alzokar

What: First Night Fayetteville
When: Dec. 31
Where: Fayetteville Square
First Night Fayetteville is a celebration of the community and the arts on New Year’s Eve. First Night is a memorable way for your family and friends to mark the passage of time with fantasy, festivity and fun. To help you welcome the year 2009, First Night offers the finest in music, theater, dance, visual arts, puppetry, storytelling and magic. Festivities begin at 6 p.m.
Info: (479) 443-4797, or visit www.firstnightfayetteville.org