Downtown Jonesboro will once again kick off the holidays with JoyFest 2025, an annual event that includes the lighting of the 55-foot RightFiber Christmas tree, live performances, ice skating, rides, shopping, photos with Santa and more.

JoyFest founder and event organizer Sarah Rickert said the holiday event has continued to grow since it began in 2019.

“The first year of JoyFest was definitely modest with a cozy crowd of around 30 or 40 people around our original tree, a few tables of popcorn, hot chocolate, cookies and a craft,” said Rickert. “But it was a sweet beginning to what has grown into a huge tradition for our community and visitors of over 5,000 now, but with the same sweet and cozy feel.”

A new addition to this year’s festival will be the addition of a community choir.

“Something I am excited about that is new this year is the JoyFest Community Choir,” said Rickert. “Anyone can join in and sing in this group. We have a sign up on our website where you can receive the music, order your sweatshirt and come for a practice the day before. Then, they will all sing together before the big countdown for the tree lighting.” 

Rickert says her favorite part of the festival happens just before the lighting of the Christmas tree.

“I can feel the energy and excitement of so many people gathered together to enjoy the simple joy of lighting a Christmas tree,” she said. “In the hustle and bustle of our every day, I think most of us still long for sharing in the sweet traditions of the season.”

Rickert says she has been pleased with the continued growth of downtown’s holiday festival.

“JoyFest truly lives up to its name, which has been my prayer from the beginning,” said Rickert, “to bring people together and experience joy. It has been neat for our kids to see how you can take a dream and share it with others and with your passion you can encourage others to join in on the fun.”

Rickert noted that JoyFest was recognized earlier this year by the Arkansas Recreation and Parks Association as Event of the Year.

She attributes the event’s success “to community members, sponsors, friends at DJA (Downtown Jonesboro Alliance) and Jonesboro Parks and Recreation, volunteers like the Crown Club, and all who have joined in on the efforts to make JoyFest bigger and better each year, and most importantly filled with lots of joy.”

DJA Executive Director Sarah Doss said JoyFest is a one-of-a-kind holiday event.

“JoyFest is such a special and unique event,” said Doss. “In my opinion, downtown is the ideal place to host this event that kicks off the Christmas season. Hosting an event that urges you to slow down and enjoy the love and wonder of the holiday season in the busiest part of the city just feels so special. This event has perfected its way of making you feel pride in your city, with that classic hometown feel. JoyFest is truly for everyone, and we can’t wait to see you there!”

JoyFest will be held Dec. 6 from 3-11 p.m. For a complete schedule of performances and list of activities, visit the event’s new website at joyfestjonesboro.com