Posted on December 13, 2024

By the El Dorado News-Times

Main Street El Dorado is excited to invite you to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with a festive season filled with charm and joy. Under the theme “Holiday Style,” we’re bringing the warmth and wonder of the holidays to Downtown El Dorado. The festivities, traditions, and local businesses will once again make Downtown the heart of the holiday season, providing all the sparkle, shopping, and fun that make this time of year so special.

Executive Director Beth Brumley and the Main Street El Dorado team have worked diligently to deliver another year of magical events that highlight the spirit of the season. From dazzling lights to family-friendly activities, you won’t want to miss the traditional holiday celebrations that make Downtown El Dorado the place to be for holiday cheer.

An Overview of the 2024 Holiday Events:

Holiday Lighting Ceremony (Nov. 21): The holiday season officially begins with the grand Holiday Lighting Ceremony at 5:45 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 21, at the Union County Courthouse. This enchanting evening will feature live performances from local dance groups, singers, and community members. Special guest Ebenezer Scrooge from the South Arkansas Arts Center’s production of A Christmas Carol will help illuminate downtown with holiday lights, officially kicking off the season’s celebrations. The Salvation Army of El Dorado will also be on hand, offering free hot cocoa and cookies as they launch their annual Red Kettle campaign.

Downtown Holiday Open House (Nov. 24): On Sunday, Nov. 24, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., Downtown merchants invite you to experience the festive spirit with special sales, discounts, and seasonal treats. Enjoy free horse-drawn carriage rides and Queen City Train rides as you explore the charming Downtown area. It’s the perfect opportunity to shop local, support small businesses, and enjoy the charm of Downtown El Dorado as you prepare for the holiday season.

Pre-Black Friday Pajama Party (Nov. 28): Get a jump start on your holiday shopping at the Pre-Black Friday Pajama Party on Thanksgiving night, Nov. 28, from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Participating downtown merchants will offer special discounts and deals, so you can score great savings before the official Black Friday rush. As you shop, enjoy quick snacks from food trucks on site, making it the perfect opportunity to shop in comfort and style–pajamas encouraged!

Small Business Saturday (November 30): Celebrate the heart of Downtown El Dorado on November 30th with Small Business Saturday®–a national movement encouraging shoppers to support local, independent businesses. It’s a wonderful chance to find one-of-a-kind gifts, enjoy personalized service, and contribute to the vibrant local economy that makes Downtown El Dorado truly unique. Additionally, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, the iconic Budweiser Clydesdales will be making their deliveries to downtown businesses, –adding an extra touch of magic to the festivities!

Christmas Parade (Dec. 6): This year’s El Dorado Christmas Parade on Friday, Dec. 6, at 7 p.m. will feature a beloved theme: “It’s a Charlie Brown Christmas Parade.” Join us for a heartwarming celebration as we welcome special guests Melanie Kohn Bravener and Duncan Watson, the voices of Lucy and Charlie Brown from Peanuts! The parade will also feature a special performance by the UAPB Marching Band, The Marching Musical Machine of the Mid-South, and an appearance by the iconic Budweiser Clydesdales, presented by HEPCO Inc. The parade promises to be a fun and festive evening for the entire family, filled with lights, music, and holiday cheer.

Santa on the Square (Dec. 21): On Saturday, Dec. 21, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., bring your holiday spirit to Downtown El Dorado for Santa on the Square. Kids and families can capture memorable photos with Santa, enjoy free horse-drawn carriage rides, and take a ride on the Queen City Train.

Pancakes with Santa (Dec. 21): Join us for Pancakes with Santa at Off the Rail Cafe on Dec. 21 from 2-4pm! Bring the kids in their coziest pajamas for a magical afternoon of holiday cheer, delicious pancakes, and a visit with Santa himself. Tickets will be available November 22nd on MainStreetElDorado.org !

Support Local and Give the Gift of Downtown El Dorado: The holiday season is the perfect time to shop small and support local businesses. Main Street El Dorado gift cards, available in $25 increments, make the perfect gift and are redeemable at over 30 downtown retailers and restaurants. They can be purchased by calling (870) 862-4747 or by visiting www.mainstreeteldorado.org.

Sponsors: The 2024 holiday season is made possible through the generous support of Main Street El Dorado and key sponsors including Cadence Bank, Clean Harbors, El Dorado Advertising & Promotion Commission, First Financial Bank, Flying B Rental, Judge Mike & Phena Loftin, Murphy USA, and Roseburg El Dorado MDF.

For More Information: Stay up to date on all the festivities and event details by following @mainstreeteldorado on social media, or visit www.mainstreeteldorado.org. To purchase gift cards or inquire about event specifics, call (870) 862-4747.