By: 
Monika Rued
 Updated: 
Holiday Lights at Historic Washington

Christmas and Candlelight at Historic Washington State Park in Washington, Ark., is a delightful time to connect with our rich Arkansas history and experience Historic Washington at its finest. This year’s 31st Annual Christmas and Candlelight is Dec. 2nd and Dec. 9th.

Historian Chris Adams says, “Even if you have toured the park before, you’re in for a special treat. You can tour homes and buildings that were unavailable throughout the year, and they are adorned with historic decorations in typical 19th-century fashion.”

“Luminaries guide your feet throughout the park while your ears are graced by the music throughout the park to provide an experience like no other,” he says describing the event. “While you are here, step into Williams Tavern and delight your taste buds with some fantastic Southern home cooking, yeast rolls, and desserts. Don’t forget to ride our surrey and visit our gift shop to pick up gifts for your friends or loved ones just in time for Christmas. Whatever you decide to do, we at Historic Washington know you will enjoy yourself and make memories on this 31st Annual Christmas and Candlelight.”

Christmas and Candlelight is truly a community event, and couldn’t take place without an army of volunteer groups. About 1,500 people volunteer, racking up nearly 2,500 volunteer hours for this two-day event alone. Historic Washington and this army of volunteers make about 270 wreaths and bows, and 4,800 luminaries. The group, Rainbows of Challenges, bags all of the luminaries! Rainbows of Challenges is a non-profit in Hope, Ark., that provides services and support for children and adults with developmental disabilities.

Here’s a slideshow of our volunteers and staff getting ready for Christmas and Candlelight. 

Christmas Lights at Historic Washington
Holiday Lights at Old Washington
Christmas Decorations at Historic Washington
Christmas Decorations at Historic Washington
Christmas Decorations at Historic Washington
Christmas Decorations at Historic Washington
Christmas Decorations at Historic Washington
Christmas Decorations at Historic Washington
Christmas Decorations at Historic Washington
Christmas Decorations at Historic Washington
Christmas Decorations at Historic Washington
Christmas Decorations at Historic Washington
Christmas Lights at Historic Washington
Christmas Decorations at Historic Washington
Carriage at Historic Washington
Carriage at Historic Washington
Food at Historic Washington