Event date: January 01, 2023
The most treasured celebration of holiday lights in Northwest Arkansas, Lights of the Ozarks, is returning to Fayetteville's Historic Downtown Square on November 18, 2022!
Make your plans now to celebrate with Experience Fayetteville as we flip the switch on the amazing winter wonderland of lights at the Lights of the Ozarks 2022 Lighting Night and Parade. On Friday, November 18, 2022 (the Friday before Thanksgiving), Fayetteville's Historic Downtown Square will glow to life at 6:00pm, followed by a jolly parade underneath the freshly-lit lights. 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 18, 2022 at 6:00pm
Shining Brightly Nightly:
Daily from 5:00pm until 1:00am
Lights Out & Goodnight:
Sunday, January 1, 2023 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 - known as Lighting Night. Lights of the Ozarks continues to illuminate the Historic Square each evening from 5:00pm to 1:00am through January 1, 2023. 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.
How do I vote for Lights of the Ozarks as 2022's Best Public Display of Holiday Lights?
We're so proud to have been nominated by USA Today as one of the top 20 Best Public Displays of Holiday Lights in the nation! If you agree, please vote for Lights of the Ozarks and help us rise to the top!
What is Lighting Night?
The Lights of the Ozarks Lighting Night and Parade is a free event to to celebrate the Square being fully lit for the first time in the 2022-23 season! Special guest Mayor Lioneld Jordan - no doubt joined by some exciting friends - will help us flip the switch to illuminate the Square. The Lighting Night Parade will depart immediately following the Official Lighting at 6:00pm. Both Lighting Night and the Lighting Night Parade take place on the Friday prior to Thanksgiving, November 18, 2022.
Is there anything else that only happens on Lighting Night?
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 can enjoy a community carol led by the Symphony of Northwest Arkansas, free printed photos with Santa in the BrightBooth, and the largest selection of food trucks you'll find all season -- exclusively on Lighting Night.
Food Loops will also be on-site to help collect and divert waste, recycling, and compost. Look for their flags and tables around the Square, where they'll take care of the sorting for you!
Is there a Facebook Event for Lighting Night?
Yes, add the Lights of the Ozarks Lighting Night Event to your calendar!
When can I see the Lights of the Ozarks?
Lights of the Ozarks begins at 6:00pm on Lighting Night, Friday, November 18th. The lights are on display in Fayetteville's Historic Downtown Square seven days a week from 5:00pm to 1:00am until January 1, 2023, 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.
When is the Lights of the Ozarks Lighting Night Parade?
The Lighting Night Parade is on Friday, November 18th immediately following the official lighting at 6:00pm. If you would like to apply to be in the parade, complete the parade application online or complete and return the PDF version. The fee to enter a float in the Lighting Night Parade for 2022 is $30.
Who is this year's Grand Marshal?
Dr. John L. Colbert, superintendent of Fayetteville Public Schools, will hold the title of Grand Marshal in 2022's Lights of the Ozarks Parade! We are thrilled to publicly recognize Superintendent Dr. Colbert's commitment to our community - by his retirement next year, he will have dedicated 47 years of his life to public education.
Where should I stand for the best view of the parade?
See the parade route here to stake out a prime viewing spot before you head down to the Square!
Will the parade be cancelled if it rains?
This is a RAIN OR SHINE event. In the case of severe weather, a decision will be made by noon on November 18, 2022.
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, and Twitter.
When is Santa coming?
Santa will be in Downtown Fayetteville on the following dates for you to meet and snap photos with during Lights of the Ozarks! There is no cost to meet or take photos with Santa.
- Friday, November 18 (Lighting Night): 5:00-9:00pm
- Friday, December 9: 5:00-8:00pm
- Saturday, December 10: 6:00-9:00pm
- Sunday, December 11: 3:00-6:00pm
- Friday, December 16: 5:00-8:00pm
- Saturday, December 17: 6:00-9:00pm
- Sunday, December 18: 3:00-6:00pm
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?
Sweet Scoops Blender Bar, Little Red Barn, and Hype Coffee 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. Check out our Visitor’s Guide for a full list of local restaurants.
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 Vendors?
Our season vendors set up shop on the Historic Downtown Square for the entirety of the Lights of the Ozarks Season so you can have a magical experience no matter which night you visit! This year's Season Vendors are:
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 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 479-521-5776 to inquire about lost & found items. We will keep items up to 30 days.
Can I sign up to volunteer at the Lights of the Ozarks?
Yes, we’d love to have you join the fun! If you would like to volunteer at the parade, please reach out to Chloe Bell, Community Engagement Manager, at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Who is sponsoring Lights of the Ozarks?
Lights of the Ozarks is produced by Experience Fayetteville, with support from our sponsors: Lewis Automotive Group, Slim Chickens, Symphony of Northwest Arkansas, Ozark Natural Foods, and Smith Two-Way Radio.
Are there additional sponsorship opportunities available for Lights of the Ozarks?
Yes! Click here to download 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 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
How do I apply to be a vendor?
Vendor applications are now closed for the 2022 Lights of the Ozarks Season.
If you are a vendor or have a pending application and need to reach us, please email Chloe Bell at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
How do I enter a float into the parade?
Parade applications are now closed for the 2022 Lights of the Ozarks Season.
If your float has been accepted into the parade or you have a pending application and need to reach us, please email Chloe Bell at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
