We encourage you to check out these events going on in the Ozarks ,January 2012.
The 1886 Crescent Hotel and Spa gives ghost hunters the opportunity to investigate one of America’s most haunted hotels, on their own, during the Eureka Springs Paranormal Weekend set for Jan. 6-7 in Eureka Springs. Attendees will investigate this mountaintop resort’s most active rooms, including the morgue left from its time in history as a cancer hospital, to capture evidence. Call 800-342-9766 or visit www.americasmosthauntedhotel.com for more information.
————————————————————
Each year approximately 100 bald eagles visit the Bull Shoals area during winter. Taking advantage of the opportunity to view the birds, Bull Shoals-White River State Park in Bull Shoals hosts an annual Eagle Awareness Weekend. This year’s festivities centered around our national symbol take place Jan. 6-7. Activities include lake and river tours, guided bird walks, guest speakers, live bird demonstrations, and live entertainment. All activities are free, except the lake and river cruises. Contact the park at 870-445-3629 for a schedule.
————————————————————
Spend a day learning how to cook winter comfort foods such as simple stews, ham and beans, cornbread, dried fruit cobblers, Ozark pudding and Skillet cake on Jan. 7 at Ozark Folk Center State Park in Mountain View. These dishes made up the staple meals for early homesteaders in the Ozarks, and this hands-on workshop will teach you the skills to make these wholesome dishes. The class is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and costs $30 per participants. The fee covers a lunch of what you’ve cooked and copies of the recipes. Space is limited and pre-registration with payment is required. Call 870-269-3851 to register and visit www.ozarkfolkcenter.com for more information about the park.
————————————————————
Eureka Springs’ Mardi Gras celebration continues to grow each year with numerous and more lavish events. Jan. 7 is the 7th annual Kings Day Mardi Gras Kick Off. This year’s king and queen and members of the royal court consisting of dukes and duchesses are introduced. The fun includes free food and music for anyone masked or in costume. King Cakes are served for dessert. Open to the general public, festivities begin at 5 p.m. and take place at the Rowdy Beaver Restaurant and Tavern located on Ark. 62 West. Visit www.Krazo.Ureeka.Org or call 479-981-9551 for more information.
————————————————————
Jacksonport State Park in Newport offers visitors a look into the natural and historical background of the area with two upcoming events. Arkansas Black Bears on Jan. 7 takes a look at the characteristics of black bear and offers safety tips if you encounter one. On Jan. 8, participants discover the importance the steamboat industry played in Jacksonport’s history during Steamboats of the White River. Both discussions are free and open to the public. Call 870-523-2143 for more information.
————————————————————
Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area in Rogers offers a Wonders of Winter Wildlife program on Jan. 21. Join park interpreters for a weekend of wildlife-oriented activities designed to delight every member of the family, and to cure early onsets of winter’s cabin fever. There will be indoor and outdoor activities. Contact the park at 479-789-5000 for a detailed schedule.
————————————————————
Enjoy Horseshoe Bend’s Music in the Mountains Show on Jan. 21 at Horseshoe Bend Theatre. Music in the Mountains is a monthly music and variety show held the third Saturday of each month at 6 p.m. Admission is by donation, and concessions are available. Call 870-373-3303 for details.
————————————————————
Explore the history of creative arts when Davidsonville Historic State Park in Pocahontas hosts an Introduction to Embroidery Workshop on Jan. 21. Learn a variety of stitches and patterns that turn cloth into works of art. Space is limited and reservations are required. Contact the park at 870-892-4708 for details.
————————————————————
Lewis Black will perform his “In God We Rust†show on Jan. 28 at the Walton Arts Center in Fayetteville. Lewis Black is one of the most prolific and hilarious performers working today, executing a brilliant trifecta as stand-up comedian, actor and author. Receiving critical acclaim, Black gives more than 200 performances a year to sell-out audiences throughout Europe, New Zealand, Canada and the United States. Admission is $40 to $65 depending on seating. Buy tickets at http://www.waltonartscenter.org/calendar/view.aspx?id=6299 or by calling 479-571-2747.