Charming Arkansas Historic Village: 39th Annual Christmas & Candlelight

The magic of the holiday season arrives in Southwest Arkansas with the 39th Annual Christmas and Candlelight at Historic Washington State Park on December 12-13, 2025. This is one of my favorite places to visit during the holiday season.

39th Annual Christmas and Candlelight Tour - Washington State Park

This charming historic village has always reminded me of something you would see in a Norman Rockwell Christmas painting. It's like a step back in time when you stroll through beautifully decorated streets and thousands of candlelit luminaries while Christmas music fills the air.

The old-style historic homes are a reminder of a Christmas past when times were simpler. All homes are tastefully decorated in a Victorian-era setting, and don't be surprised if you see people dressed in Victorian-style clothing. Even Scrooge would approve of this village.

Visit 15 Historical Sites and Buildings at Washington State Park

You must visit the numerous historic buildings in Washington State Park, festively decorated with period decorations, the 1874 Hempstead County Courthouse, an old post office, and the B.W. Edwards Weapons Museum and Blacksmith Shop.

READ MORE: Arkansas Holiday Lights Display Ranked in the USA Top 10

Christmas and Candlelight Tour of Homes Dec. 12-13

Tours will be available from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. The lighting of the luminaries and musical programs will begin at 5 p.m.

Visitors can enjoy a holiday meal in the historic Williams Tavern Restaurant from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Get our free mobile app

For more information about the 39th Annual Christmas and Candlelight, please call the Washington State Park at 870-983-2684 or visit their website.