If you’re coming to Springfield in December, plan to slow down and enjoy the small-town holiday feel. The Downtown Square fills up with lights, holiday events, and local shops that make it easy to find the right gift (or the perfect place for a cozy mug of cocoa). Below are some seasonal highlights to help plan a Hallmark-style day in town.
Stroll the Downtown Square
Start with a walk around the historic Downtown Square where independent boutiques, gift stores, and restaurants sit within easy walking distance. The square is especially pleasant in December when storefronts are decorated and many shops extend hours for holiday shoppers. (See individual shop hours via the links below.)
Warm up with coffee or hot chocolate at Historic Perk
Historic Perk roasts coffee in-house and serves seasonal drinks and house-made syrups—an easy stop for a warming latte or rich hot cocoa while you stroll downtown. Their focus on locally roasted coffee and daily-made syrups is part of what makes it a reliable pick for winter sips.
Shop downtown
Local stores with personality
- Maison De Réve — a local destination for luxury home decor and furniture, great for those looking for a statement piece or a more upscale gift. Their inventory mixes classic and modern pieces that suit holiday decorating and gift shopping.
- McClellan & Co. — a modern mercantile on the Square offering curated gifts, apothecary items, scents, and accessories—handy for hostess gifts, stocking stuffers, or a unique find for someone who “has everything.”
- Southern Threads — a women’s boutique that also does personalized gifts and monogramming—good for apparel, accessories, and small custom presents. Check their hours and arrival updates on social.
Winter Wonderland
events, carriage rides, and family activities
Springfield’s Winter Wonderland brings free holiday programming to J. Travis Price Park on select Saturdays in December. Expect carriage rides (first-come, first-served), visits with characters and Santa in the cabin, a petting zoo, pony rides, inflatables, and food trucks on scheduled dates. The city posts event details and dates on its official Winter Wonderland page.
Carriage rides & holiday lights
Horse-drawn carriage rides through the historic downtown square are a seasonal favorite and are often offered on specific evenings in December (rides are typically first-come, first-served). Riding through the lights is one of those quiet Hallmark moments—bring a scarf and a camera. The carriage rides and downtown walkability are promoted by local tourism resources.
Quick tips for a December visit
- Plan your visit around Winter Wonderland Saturdays if you want activities like carriage rides and visits with Santa (check the city calendar for exact dates).
- Downtown shops often extend hours during December — check each business’ website or social pages before you go.
- Combine shopping with food and drinks: a stop at Historic Perk for a hot drink pairs well with an afternoon of browsing the Square.