Hot Springs Guest Guide 2023 Calendar of Events
Arkansas Dept. of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism
The future's looking bright with many opportunities for fun this year in the Spa City.
WINTER
Horse racing season at the famed Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort kicks off in December each year. Racing season runs through May, culminating with the renowned Arkansas Derby Day on April 1. Big events also include the Smarty Jones Stakes and the Southwest Stakes in January. Visit oaklawn.com for the 2023 racing schedule.
Northwoods Full Moon Mountain Bike Rides happen January through December on the date of each full moon (contingent on weather). In Hot Springs, the dates are November 10-12, 2023.
Head downtown once a month for Gallery Walk to discover local artists, join open mic nights and explore downtown shops owned by Hot Springs locals.
The biggest holiday event in the Spa City is the annual holiday lights display at Garvan Woodland Gardens.
SPRING
The 18th annual Valley of the Vapors Independent Music Festival returns to Cedar Glades Park from March 18-20. Festival goers can enjoy musical artists from all of the country as well as incredible foods, vendors, art and more activities.
Garvan Woodland Gardens’ Daffodil Days & Tulip Extravaganza is an annual rite of passage (and an Instagram-worthy attraction). The explosion of blooms takes place between late February and mid-April depending on weather.
Don’t miss the Arkansas Cherry Blossom Festival on March 5, 2023 held at the Hot Springs Convention Center. Enjoy live music, locally-made sake and more.
Mark your calendar for the 20th Annual World’s Shortest St. Patrick's Day Parade on March 17. This 28-foot, fan-favorite parade always includes two celebrities as the grand marshal and official parade starter.
Arts & the Park is a 10-day festival that celebrates the local arts scene. From April 28-May 7, guests can enjoy live performances, workshops, art exhibitions and children’s events.
Kickstart summer when Magic Springs opens for the season on May 6. Thrillseekers can ride roller coasters like the Gauntlet and X-Coaster and cool off in the waterpark.
SUMMER
Don’t miss one of the three annual free fireworks displays over Lake Hamilton for Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day. Best viewed by boat!
The 2023 Bridge Street LIVE! Concert Series will take place downtown every Thursday in June. Enjoy this block party on the city’s shortest street with free music, local food and drinks, games and vendors.
The 40th annual Phoenix Bass Fishing League will be held on Lake Hamilton on April 22 and September 23-24. Anglers from across the nation will compete for a $120,000 prize.
Come down to Bathhouse Row on June 2 & 3 for the World Championship Running of the Tubs. Watch as teams race decorated tubs while people dressed in robes and slippers shoot super soakers at them. This wacky event is truly one-of-a-kind.
The sixth annual Hot Springs Baseball Weekend in August celebrates the city’s rich history as the birthplace of Major League Spring Training. Former Major Leaguers make appearances.
Spa-Con Pop Culture and Comic Convention—a comicon that draws in comic fans, cosplayers, gamers and more—will return this September 22-24.
FALL
The Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival from October 6-14 highlights documentary filmmakers of the south and has a lineup of compelling stories from around the world. Enjoy film screenings, panels and workshops with acclaimed filmmakers and special guests.
Enjoy the Spa Running Festival on November 11. From a 1K Squirt Race to a half marathon, this festival allows every level of athlete to get out and enjoy the city’s natural beauty. Visit hotsprings.org to register!
The Tom Daniel Holiday Chili Cook Off is an all you can eat chili competition that will be held on November 20.
The Gudrun: Northwoods MTB Festival will return this November 10-12. Mountain bikers from all over the country will compete and celebrate the Spa City’s avid biking community.
