Bentonville, AR……. In partnership with Downtown Bentonville Inc., the Bentonville Square will become a “winter wonderland” on Saturday, November 18, during the annualLighting of the Square celebration presented by Ghiradelli Chocolate Company. A highlight of the evening and one of Bentonville’s most beloved seasonal traditions is a “flip on of the light switch” by Mayor Stephanie Orman, illuminating the Bentonville Square with over 30 miles of wrapped colorful lights.
Those seeking an earlier start to the festivities can attend the much-anticipated opening of Bentonville’s only outdoor ice-skating amenity, the Rink at Lawrence Plaza at 12pm. Santa’s Workshop opens at 4:00pm on the Bentonville Square offeringgames, crafts, and entertainment. First National Bank of NWA is hosting Photos with Santa between 5:00pm – 7:00pm. New this year is the Merry & Bright Holiday Laser Light Show scheduled from 5:20pm – 5:55pm. Immediately following the 6:00pm ceremonial tree lighting, the Arkansas Philharmonic Orchestra will take the main stage. An ice-skating exhibition presented by the Arkansas Figure Skating Association featuring the Ozark Figure Skating Club will conclude the evening at Lawrence Plaza.
Bentonville Parks and Recreation ice skating season extends through Sunday, February 11, 2024. Tickets can be purchased online for any open session. For daily schedules and operating hours, visit playbentonville.com. The $7 entrance fee covers skate rental and 45 minutes on the ice.
As always, the Santa House will be on display at Lawrence Plaza providing a direct line to the North Pole. Children are encouraged to write a letter to Santa Claus for elves to deliver. To receive a special reply before Christmas, each letter should include a return address and be turned in to the “Letters to Santa House” between November 18 - December 10.
The animated Christmas tree in the center of the fountain is synched to music, playing nightly until 11:00pm. The city block of lights will be visible between sunset and sunrise through New Year’s Eve. A record crowd is expected to visit the BentonvilleSquare during the holiday season.
To learn more about Bentonville Parks and Recreation, please visit us online at www.playbentonville.com, or call 479.464.7275.
