Now through January 1
The most treasured celebration of holiday lights in Northwest Arkansas, Lights of the Ozarks, will return to Fayetteville's Historic Downtown Square for the 2023 season!
Make your plans now to celebrate with Experience Fayetteville under the amazing winter wonderland of lights at the Lights of the Ozarks! Beginning with this year's Lighting Night on Friday, November 17th, Fayetteville's Historic Downtown Square will glow to life each night beginning at 5:00pm.
The lights are free and open to the public every night of the week until 1:00am through the end of December. Bundle up your people and bring them to Fayetteville for a little holiday magic -- we'll see you at Lights of the Ozarks!
Historic Downtown Square | Fayetteville, Arkansas
Lighting Night & Parade:
Friday, November 17, 2023
Shining Brightly Nightly:
Daily from 5:00pm until 1:00am
Lights Out & Goodnight:
Monday, January 1, 2024 at 1:00am
Lights of the Ozarks FAQs:
What is The Lights of the Ozarks?
The Lights of the Ozarks is a holiday celebration of lights in Fayetteville, AR, that begins on the Friday prior to Thanksgiving with an official lighting at 6:00pm followed by a holiday parade - an event known as Lighting Night. Lights of the Ozarks will continue to illuminate the Historic Square each evening from 5:00pm to 1:00am through January 1, 2024. Along with the dazzling display of twinkle lights, you'll find a festive selection of seasonal activities, holiday music, winter treats, hot cocoa, and vendors on the Downtown Square each night during Lights of the Ozarks.
When can I see the Lights of the Ozarks?
Lights of the Ozarks begins on Lighting Night, Friday, November 17th. The lights are then on display in Fayetteville's Historic Downtown Square seven days a week from 5:00pm to 1:00am until January 1, 2024, weather permitting.
How many lights are there on the Historic Square?
Each year, employees of The City of Fayetteville Parks and Recreation Department dedicate 3,300+ hours to decorating the Downtown Square for Lights of the Ozarks. Installation begins in October and continues through mid-November as workers place over 500,000 LED lights that can be enjoyed nightly through New Year's Day, weather permitting.
Is there a cost to visit the lights?
Lights of the Ozarks is a free, public display. All are welcome to see the lights.
Where can I park?
A PDF map of downtown parking near Lights of the Ozarks is available here.
Is there a Facebook Event?
Check out event details on the Facebook event.
How can I find out about special announcements?
Stay up to date on Lights of the Ozarks news by signing up for our newsletter and following Experience Fayetteville on Facebook & Instagram.
What is Lighting Night?
The Lights of the Ozarks Lighting Night and Parade is a free event held to celebrate the Square being fully lit for the first time in the 2023-24 season! Both Lighting Night and the Lighting Night Parade will take place on the Friday prior to Thanksgiving, November 17, 2023.
Lights of the Ozarks is magical all season long, but Lighting Night is undoubtedly the most fun night to visit! Beyond the lighting and parade, guests are treated to special performances and the flipping of the giant switch at 6 p.m.
When is the Lights of the Ozarks Lighting Night Parade?
The Lighting Night Parade will be held on Friday, November 17th immediately following the official lighting of the Square - around 6 p.m.
When is Santa coming?
Share your wishes with Santa!
- Friday, December 8 from 5 - 8:00 p.m.
- Saturday, December 9 from 6 - 9:00 p.m.
- Sunday, December 10 from 3 - 6:00 p.m.
- Friday, December 15 from 5 - 8:00 p.m.
Can you help me send a letter to the North Pole?
We would love to! Santa accepts letters 24/7 throughout the Lights of the Ozark season - just drop yours in the mailbox located outside the Experience Fayetteville Visitors Center. Be sure to include your return address so Santa can write back!
Where should I eat?
A fleet of local food trucks will be on site nightly with a variety of holiday treats, as well as additional rotating vendors each weekend. In addition to our onsite vendors, there are many great dining options around the square! For stunning views of the Lights of the Ozarks, visit Cheers at the OPO, Tula, and Tiny Tim’s. Just a short stroll away, enjoy cuisine from Hugo’s, Big Box Karaoke, Vetro 1925, Taste of Thai, Xuma Kitchens, and Damgoode Pies.
Is there alcohol?
Yes, Lights of the Ozarks is contained entirely within Fayetteville's Outdoor Refreshment Area, which allows patrons to carry and consume alcohol from participating bars and restaurants in marked public areas.
Who are this year's Lights of the Ozarks Season food vendors?
Chelle's Burger Joint - Burgers, Nachos, Fries
Beaver Tails - Fried Pastries
Sweet Scoops - Ice Cream
Little Red Barn - Churros, Fried Desserts
Are public restrooms available?
Yes! Public restrooms are available nightly until 10:00pm in the Fayetteville Town Center. The Fayetteville Town Center is located on the south side of the square beyond the FTC plaza at 15 W Mountain. Exterior restroom doors are located on the East terrace, around the side of the building.
Can I bring my dog?
Well behaved pets on a leash are welcome at Lights of The Ozarks. Don’t forget to pick up after your dog! You can find doggy pick up bags on the southwest corner of the square (Block & Mountain).
I lost something at Lights of the Ozarks! How can I get it back?
Contact Experience Fayetteville at
Who is sponsoring Lights of the Ozarks?
Lights of the Ozarks is produced by Experience Fayetteville, with support from our sponsors.
Lighting Night and parade festivities are sponsored by SWEPCO.
Season sponsors: South by Northwest Hospitality, Symphony of Northwest Arkansas (SONA) and Lewis Automotive Group.
Are there additional sponsorship opportunities available for Lights of the Ozarks?
Yes! Click here for details about our Lights of the Ozarks partnership opportunities. If you have any questions about Lights of the Ozarks or would like to help in another way, please email Chloe Bell at
