The town of Eureka Springs was just named one of America’s Best Main Streets by Yahoo Travel. Make arrangements to visit and see for yourself how amazing this small town really is. There are so many things to do in Eureka Springs, why not kick your winter blues to the curb and see what the town has to offer during the month of February.
The Eureka Springs 10th Annual Chocolate Lovers Festival will be at the Best Western Inn of the Ozarks Convention Center on February 15th. This event is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth featuring samples from the area’s finest restaurants including cakes, cookies, ice cream, fondue fountains, drinks and more. The Chocolate Festival will run from 9:00am to 3:00pm with admission $12.00 for adults and $6.00 for children six and under. Proceeds from this event go towards non-profit organizations in Eureka Springs and Southwest Missouri.
Eureka Gras, Eureka Springs Mardi Gras Extravaganza is back. This three month event begins in January but there are plenty of activities to attend during the month of February. The Taste of New Orleans at Keels Creek Winery happens on February 15th at 2:00pm. Authentic Beignets and Café au Lait will be served. The Hookers and Jokers Ball is on February 27th at 6:00pm at the Inn of the Ozarks Convention Center. Come join in the fun in your best costume with live music, a costume contest and buffet of heavy hors d’oeuvres. The King and Queen of Eureka Gras will be celebrated on February 28th at the Coronation Ball at the Crescent Hotel Crystal Ballroom. This private event is by reservation only. Formal attire is required and event will feature a promenade and grand march with introduction of the King and Queen and royal court. Champagne supper buffet will be served along with live music for the evening.
The Greater Eureka Springs Chamber of Commerce will be hosting its third annual Mid-Winter Hometown Jam on February 22nd at 7:00pm. This event will be held at the City Auditorium and feature local bands. Each band will perform their twenty minute set before gathering together at the end for a jam session finale. Before the event, be sure to check out the Eureka Gras Night Parade. Parade begins at 6:00pm with Circus theme to keep the crowd entertained.
The Walton Arts Center in Fayetteville will feature a variety of shows supporting the performing arts throughout the month of February. Bringing the classic television show to life, I Love Lucy on Stage will run from February 4th through the 9th. Lucy, Ricky, Ethel and Fred will put on a show as if you were in the audience for a taping back in the 1950’s. This show is suitable for all ages. Saturday, February 15th Valentine Pops will put on a one night show just in time for your Valentine. The night will include music centered on the theme of love and its pursuit with a collection of symphonic, operatic and musical pieces by Puccini, Mozart, Rodgers and Hammerstein and more. Cirque Ziva, a world-class cirque spectacular, will put on a fast paced, exciting performance on February 23rd. With ancient and contemporary music, dancing, costume changes and traditional Chinese acrobats, this show is a fun experience for the entire family.
When looking to book your Eureka Springs excursion, staying at a local bed and breakfast is a must. Arsenic and Old Lace Bed and Breakfast offers luxurious rooms and scenic views of the Arkansas hills. The location is two blocks from the Historic District so you’re within walking distance of all the fine dining, shops and galleries of the downtown area. A complimentary gourmet breakfast is served daily to start your day on the right track. The inn will be celebrating Valentine’s Day for the entire month with their February & Lovers Go Together package. If you’re looking to pamper your loved one with a weekend getaway, this special is just for you. Prices vary depending on room. Be sure to mention the package when booking your stay.
Photo courtesy of Brad Holt