Pine Bluff's Enchanted Land of Lights and Legends runs through Dec. 31.
Pine Bluff's Enchanted Land of Lights and Legends runs through Dec. 31.

The Lower Delta lights up for the holidays

By: Kim Williams

Arkansas’ Lower Delta is ready to light up for the holiday season. Check out these events for a sure-fire way to get in the holiday spirit!

Beginning Dec. 10, Mississippi River State Park in Marianna hosts the Enchanted Forest, a magical celebration of community, nature and the holiday spirit. Visitors can stroll through the park's visitor center and gardens to discover a wondrous display of over 60 evergreen trees, each creatively adorned by businesses and organizations from the surrounding area. The creative and imaginative displays will transform the Mississippi River State Park gardens into a winter wonderland, bringing holiday cheer to all who visit. The Enchanted Forest offers a perfect opportunity for families, friends and neighbors to come together, share in the joy of the holiday season and appreciate the artistic talents of the community. The Enchanted Forest is open to visitors through Jan. 1. It's an ideal opportunity to appreciate the serene beauty of the Mississippi River State Park, even during the winter season.

One of the beautifully-decorated trees at Mississippi River State Park's Enchanted Forest.

 

A visit to Finney's Christmas Wonderland is a treat for all ages.
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A visit to Finney's Christmas Wonderland is a treat for all ages.

For 38 years, Christmas Wonderland, 3 miles north of Crossett, has been a favorite holiday lights display in the state. Visitors enjoy the oasis of stunning holiday lights, animated scenes, a drive-thru tunnel of lights and singing snowmen. There is a color-changing forest of lights and a scene based on the Christmas Story. Visitors will also enjoy bubble and snow machines, a light show and special visits from Frosty the Snowman. Sam Finney has been busy at work adding additional displays so you’ll definitely want to plan a visit. Christmas Wonderland is open nightly from Nov. 25 through Dec. 31, from 6 to 10 p.m. (and 11 p.m. on weekends).

Plan a trip to Pine Bluff's Enchanted Land of Lights and Legends this holiday season.
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Plan a trip to Pine Bluff's Enchanted Land of Lights and Legends this holiday season.

Since 1997, Pine Bluff has hosted its annual holiday extravaganza, the Enchanted Land of Lights and Legends. The dates for the 27th annual event are Nov. 21 through Dec. 31. Located at the Regional Park, it’s one of the state’s largest drive-thru displays of holiday lights. The 1.3-mile drive features over 240 displays and is open nightly from 6 to 9 p.m. Admission is free for the Enchanted Land of Lights and Legends. Donations are accepted by volunteers at the end of the drive to help maintain and grow the display of lights.