Rogers, AR December 2025

A Fond Farewell and Holiday Wishes

I write this letter with mixed emotions, as this will be my final publication as publisher and owner of Rogers City Lifestyle. After much thought, I’ve made the difficult decision to sell the magazine and move on to the next chapter of my life.

I’m confident the magazine will continue to thrive under new ownership, as it has been purchased by Wyatt Layman, owner and publisher of Bentonville City Lifestyle. I’m also pleased to share that our outstanding team, led by Heather Jarvis and Alexis Roach, will continue carrying Rogers City Lifestyle forward.

It has been a true privilege to get to know so many incredible people and business owners in Rogers. After living here for more than 20 years, I thought I knew everything about our community—but this experience showed me just how much more there was to discover.

To our readers and partners, thank you for your continued support. Together, we’ve shared meaningful stories and celebrated the people who make this community so special. I’ve learned so much from this experience and am deeply grateful for the relationships and memories it’s brought.

Now, let’s turn our attention to the wonderful holiday season we’re celebrating this month!

In my family, Christmas was always a grand tradition. Growing up with five siblings, celebrations at our home were filled with laughter, music, delicious food, friendship, and prayers. Those moments continue to remind me of the magic of the season and the importance of creating lasting memories with loved ones.

Inspired by that spirit, this month we’ve curated a gift guide to help make your holiday shopping easier while supporting local businesses. We’ve also highlighted the best of what Rogers has to offer during the holidays—from events and entertainment to opportunities for giving back.

While this season is joyful for many, it can also be a difficult time for those who are grieving, lonely, or in need. Through my travels over the past few years, I’ve come to understand just how much greater the depth of need is than I had ever realized. In the spirit of the season, let’s come together as a community to extend kindness to those who may be struggling—every act of generosity makes a difference.

May your holidays be filled with love, peace, and the joy of giving. And thank you again for everything you have done to support Rogers City Lifestyle!

December 2025

PUBLISHER

Andy Ponte | Andy.Ponte@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Heather Jarvis | heather.jarvis@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Alexis Roach | alexis.roach@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Heather Jarvis | heather.jarvis@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sydney Sullivan, Kara Isham

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Meredith Mashburn, Kara Isham

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe

LAYOUT DESIGNER Meredith Wilson

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

Pinnacle Springs Making Spirits Bright

Unwrap the joys of retirement living with friends that feel like family.

There’s something magical about sharing the season and celebrating traditions — old and new. From festive dinners and cozy gatherings to thoughtful amenities that make every day effortless, it’s all here, beautifully wrapped into one easy monthly price. Experience the warmth of community living where the spirit of togetherness shines all year long.

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

business monthly

Arkansas’ First and Only Melting Pot Restaurant Opens in Rogers

The Melting Pot, a national fondue restaurant chain, opened its first Arkansas location in Rogers this fall at 5102 W. Pauline Whitaker Pkwy, Suite 310. The restaurant will feature the brand’s signature four-course fondue dining experience and a full bar. The Rogers opening is part of The Melting Pot’s 50th anniversary expansion, which includes updated designs and menus. The restaurant also plans to partner with local organizations and support national nonprofit initiatives. Learn more: meltingpot.com/rogers-ar

Holiday Personal Chef Services by House Cured Culinary

Take the stress out of hosting this holiday season by booking personal chef services with House Cured Culinary. Executive Chef Kevin McCombs has over two decades of experience in the industry, and will custom-tailor a menu to fit within your budget. From intimate family meals to larger gatherings, he has perfected the art of creating seamless, memorable culinary events. Learn more at housecuredculinary.com or email chefkevinmccombs@gmail.com.

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Kumon Math and Reading Center of Rogers Offers Special Discount

Save up to $80 when you enroll at the Kumon Math and Reading Center of Rogers between November 1 and December 31. Help your child build a strong academic foundation in math and reading. Programs are available for preschool through high school students. Book a free assessment at www.kumon.com/rogers or contact (479) 770-0055 to get started.

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CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS

A Season of Hometown Magic

ARTICLE BY SYDNEY SULLIVAN

Kick off the season with the annual  Rogers Christmas Parade December 5 at 6:30 p.m. Neighbors line the sidewalks downtown waiting for that timeless moment when Santa makes his way through town—a sight that never gets old, no matter your age. While you're there, shop the Christmas Village from 5–9 p.m., or December 6 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Frisco Plaza.

Celebrate in Downtown Rogers on December 6 from 4–7:30 p.m. with a festive mix of holiday drinks, shopping, and fun. Sips on the Bricks attendees can enjoy complimentary drinks at “sip stops,” vote for their favorites, and show off their best ugly sweaters or Santa hats in the costume contest.

Still searching for the perfect gift? Spend an afternoon strolling through Pinnacle Hills Promenade , where holiday window displays sparkle and cheerful music fills the air. Shopping here feels less like a task and more like a timeless tradition, turning a simple outing into a festive experience.

When it’s time to recharge, stop by Onyx Coffee Lab’s Rogers HQ for a Christmas latte or peppermint mocha. The cozy space buzzes with holiday cheer, offering the perfect spot to sip something warm, catch your breath, and soak in the season’s spirit while the scent of freshly brewed coffee fills the air.

On December 6, Winter Wonderland with Equestrian Bridges brings extra holiday magic to town. Enjoy horse rides, sweet treats, and photos with Santa and his Mini Horse Elves. The scent of pine and the sound of laughter make it a night that captures the heart of the season.

For a nostalgic touch, visit the Daisy Airgun Museum, home of the iconic Red Ryder BB Gun made famous in A Christmas Story. With its limited-edition 85th-anniversary model and a 25-foot-tall Daisy outside, this stop captures the wonder of childhood and celebrates a timeless piece of American holiday tradition.

Your Holiday Gift Guide

SHOP SMALL AND GIFT BIG WITH THESE ONE-OF-A-KIND LOCAL FINDS

ARTICLE BY HEATHER JARVIS

Coconut Sugar Scrub exfoliates impurities and leaves skin looking smoother, softer, and more radiant from the first use. The formula’s melting texture with a lovely fragrance gently exfoliates the skin. The Strawberry Scrub will leave you with freshly polished skin—it’s 100% natural and ready to work its magic on ingrown hairs, skin discoloration, breakouts, and bumps between waxes. Leaves skin feeling soft and smooth with a light scent of strawberry.

5206 Village Pkwy Suite 4

Susan Shaw Jewelry: Ranging from $60 to $180

Individually handcrafted jewelry made in the U.S. Choose from a variety of bracelets, earrings, necklaces, rings, and Razorbackthemed jewelry available in gold or silver.

Lasang Pinoy

719 W. Walnut St. Suite 104

Sing Your Heart Out Package: Two hours of karaoke + two karaoke bites: $220

Grab the mic and your crew for two hours of karaoke fun! This gift includes a private room for 12 people plus two pulutan/small plates to keep the party going. Full bar available! Belt it, laugh it, live it—this night is all yours.

VOXY

5309 W. Village Pkwy Suite 3

VOXY Custom Facial + VOXY Essentials

Skincare Kit: $275 ($465 Value)

Give the gift of glow! Enjoy VOXY’s fully personalized facial with dermaplaning (a $175 value) for smoother, brighter skin—plus the curated VOXY Essentials Skincare Kit (a $290 value) featuring ZO Skin Health medical-grade skincare to cleanse, exfoliate, tone, and protect. The perfect glow-getter duo for radiant, healthy skin!

ARTICLE BY KARA ISHAM

TEACHING KIDS HOW TO BE GENEROUS WITH THEIR TIME, TALENTS, AND RESOURCES

JOY OF GIVING

During the season when most kids are eagerly looking forward to receiving gifts from friends and family, many parents are finding ways to also teach their kids about the importance of giving to others.

This spirit of giving can look different for different families, with some

Another opportunity The Salvation Army offers to families who want to volunteer together is the chance to serve a meal to those in need at the Bentonville Shelter. The Salvation Army serves meals 365 days a year at both its Bentonville and Fayetteville

“CHARACTER IS EVERYTHING, AND KINDNESS IS FREE.”

able to give of their resources and others being able to give of their time.

One organization that immediately comes to mind during the holidays when one thinks of “giving” is The Salvation Army. The organization’s red collection kettles, a symbol of generosity, can be found outside of businesses in 56 locations in Northwest Arkansas.

Captain Stacey Connelly, area commander of The Salvation Army of NWA, says many people don’t realize that families are able to serve together as kettle bell ringers. The organization offers special locations and times where children can stand alongside their parents and ring the bell calling for donations.

“Families really like to make it a tradition,” Stacey says. “They can pick their location and time and serve in the same place every year.”

This year, families can also challenge other families to a friendly competition of online giving, using new QR codes to make donating easy.

shelters, with families able to sign up for a time to volunteer together by calling the local Salvation Army office.

Young children can also start learning about giving by helping their parents shop for a Salvation Army Tree Angel. The Salvation Army Angel Tree program helps provide Christmas gifts for hundreds of thousands of children each year.

“Children usually choose a kid the same age as them to shop for,” Stacey says. “I have had 3-year-olds come in with a bag full of toys they shopped for. It’s precious.”

GIVING AT ANY AGE

Rogers teacher and Bella Vista resident Caity Church is one of the many parents who believe teaching giving at a young age is important. She and her 17-year-old daughter, Maysie , have rung the bells for the red kettles and served meals together with The Salvation Army. She says that spirit of giving began when Maysie was just 7 years

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old and asked friends to bring donations for the Northwest Arkansas Children’s Shelter instead of birthday presents—a tradition she kept up until she stopped having big parties.

The two have also spent hours together volunteering for local nonprofit theater groups.

Caity, a 20-year veteran teacher, says she also emphasizes the importance of giving back with her middle-school students.

“The biggest lesson I try to teach my students, and most persistently to my daughter, is to be a good human,” Caity says. “Character is everything, and kindness is free. Serving others and your community helps to build the world you want to be a part of.”

Parents of older children and teenagers can look for mutual hobbies and interests to build their giving around, such as volunteering together at local animal shelters, nonprofit fundraising events, or serving at local food pantries and nonprofit thrift stores. High school students in public schools have a required number of volunteer hours for graduation and many can volunteer with local organizations without a parent after the age of 16.

But for parents with young children, finding an opportunity to serve together can be more challenging. While some organizations, like The Salvation Army, provide opportunities for whole-family service, parents of young kids may also have to use some creativity in coming up with how to teach the concept of giving.

Lexie and Patrick Edmunds of Rogers have three kids, ages 1, 5, and 8. Last year

they were able to serve a holiday meal together at Trinity Fellowship Church in Fayetteville, but they also have been teaching their kids about donating to others by sorting through clothes and toys together that can be given to the Children’s Shelter or local thrift stores like Helping Hands or the Samaritan House Thrift Store.

Some other creative ways younger kids can learn about giving to others is to help mom and dad sort food and hygiene products that can be donated to area Little Free Pantries or organizations like the Northwest Arkansas Food Bank. Families can also put together care packages for those recovering from illness, the unhoused population, or military members.

Artistic children can help make fun cards for veterans and senior citizens. And taking children to personally hand out the cards always brings a smile to the recipients’ faces.

Younger and older children alike can be taught how to save money that can be donated to a good cause. Families can create a “giving jar” and encourage children to contribute part of their allowance or help plan fundraising ideas.

Overall, experts agree that the way children learn best about compassion and giving is through seeing the example in their parents, whether that be through them giving of their resources, time, or talents.

Several websites exist that help share more ideas for families, such as justserve.org

Winter Simmer

Magic

ARTICLE BY ARSINE KALOUSTIAN

FILL YOUR HOME WITH THE COZY SCENTS OF TART CRANBERRIES, BRIGHT CITRUS, AND WARMING SPICES

Creating stovetop potpourri is a delightful way to indulge in the scents of the festive season. This Cranberry Orange Potpourri combines sparkling notes of fresh citrus and cranberries with nostalgic spices and woodsy herbs to create a welcoming atmosphere.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup fresh cranberries

• 1 orange, sliced

• 2 cinnamon sticks

• 1 teaspoon whole cloves

• 3 star anise

• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary

• 2-3 cups water (plus more as needed)

INSTRUCTIONS:

Combine cranberries, sliced orange, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and rosemary in a pot. Add 2-3 cups of water, ensuring the ingredients are submerged. Simmer on low heat, allowing the aromas to release. Check the water level, adding more as needed to prevent drying out. Simmer for several hours to fill your home with the scents of the season.

This potpourri is perfect for setting the holiday mood, whether you’re preparing for a family gathering or simply want your home to smell warm and inviting.

WINTER in a glass

HOLIDAY COCKTAILS & COZY CREATIONS

SPICED CINNAMON RUM FLIP

A luscious holiday cocktail with warming spices, rich texture, and a beautiful cinnamon garnish.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 oz dark or spiced rum

• 3/4 oz cinnamon simple syrup

• 1 oz heavy cream

• 1 whole egg

• Dash of ground nutmeg

• Dash of vanilla extract

Garnish: cinnamon stick and a light dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon

Make Cinnamon Simple Syrup:

Combine 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water, and 2 cinnamon sticks in a saucepan. Simmer for 10 mins, let cool, and strain. Store in the fridge.

Add rum, cinnamon syrup, cream, egg, vanilla, and a pinch of nutmeg to a shaker. Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds to emulsify the egg. Strain into a coupe or stemmed glass like the one in your photo. Top with a cinnamon stick across the rim and a dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon. Optional: Add 1/2 oz chilled espresso for a coffee kick.

FESTIVE CRANBERRY GIN FIZZ

A bright, elegant cocktail with a foamy top and a hint of holiday spirit.

INSTRUCTIONS:

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 oz gin

• 1 oz cranberry juice

• 3/4 oz lemon juice

• 1/2 oz simple syrup

• 1 egg white

Optional: splash of sparkling water or club soda

Garnish: fresh rosemary or thyme sprig

INSTRUCTIONS:

In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, cranberry juice, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white. Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds to create the frothy top. Double strain into a chilled coupe glass to get that smooth, foamy top. Add a small splash of sparkling water if you’d like a bit of fizz. Gently place a sprig of rosemary or thyme on top of the foam.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these holiday drinks are guaranteed to bring a little extra cheer to your cup.

BOURBON VANILLA BEAN HOT CHOCOLATE

An ultra-creamy, chocolatey holiday drink with a hit of warm bourbon and a vanilla bean twist.

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

INGREDIENTS:

• 1/2 cup high-quality dark chocolate (chopped or chips)

• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder

• 2 tbsp sugar or maple syrup

• 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract

• Pinch of sea salt

• 2 oz bourbon

Topping: 4 large marshmallows

Optional garnish: grated dark chocolate, whipped cream, cinnamon

INSTRUCTIONS:

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, cream, cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla, and salt. Whisk until smooth and heated through. Add chopped dark chocolate and stir constantly until melted and silky. Lower heat if needed to avoid scorching. Remove from heat, then stir in bourbon. Taste and adjust sweetness or strength to your liking. Top with marshmallows. Add whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, and shaved chocolate. Optional: Add a pinch of cinnamon and cayenne for spicy depth

Kid-friendly version: Omit bourbon and add peppermint extract or caramel syrup instead.

Small business insurance that works for you

DECEMBER 5TH

Rogers Christmas Parade

Downtown Rogers | 6:30 PM

The City of Rogers invites the community to celebrate the holiday season in Downtown Rogers with the Rogers Christmas Parade. The theme of this year’s parade is “Hometown Christmas." Residents and visitors can enjoy the parade and vibrant holiday atmosphere of Downtown Rogers at any point along the route.

DECEMBER 5TH

Holiday Open House at Salon H. Ross

1601 W. Walnut St. Suite B | 3:00 PM

Salon H. Ross is hosting a Holiday Open House from 3–6 p.m., where a variety of local businesses will come together for an afternoon of festive fun—from botox, ear piercings, and permanent jewelry to holiday shopping, DIY bracelets, and photo ops.

DECEMBER 6TH

Christmas in Cave

Downtown Cave Springs on Main Street | 10:00 AM

Step into the season at the holiday market in downtown Cave Springs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will be local craft vendors, food trucks, a kid zone, and pictures with Santa.

DECEMBER 6TH

Natural State Winterfest

Natural State Beer Company | 11:00 AM

Natural State Winterfest is a traditional outdoor market, featuring festive lights, handmade gifts, ornaments, food, and drinks from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sip on festive brews and themed cocktails while you browse local vendors and savor delicious bites from food trucks.

DECEMBER 6TH

3rd Annual Christmas on the Creeks

Village on the Creeks | 12:00 PM

Stroll along the holiday walk, shop local, and enjoy the picturesque village community. Visit businesses filled with holiday magic, enjoy music in the Chapel, and even take a photo with Old St. Nick. It’s a small business Saturday full of activities—and remember to grab a toy and drop it off at one of the three Toys for Tots drop-off stations.

DECEMBER 6TH

Sips on the Bricks: Holiday Edition

Downtown Rogers | 4:00 PM

Sips on the Bricks is a holiday drink contest, costume contest, and shop local extravaganza in Downtown Rogers. Get in the holiday spirit with your ugly sweater and/or Santa hat while merchants compete in a holiday drink contest, crafting creative sips for crawlers to taste and vote on their favorite.

events

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DECEMBER 11TH

December Art on the Bricks

Downtown Rogers | 4:30 PM

Celebrate Northwest Arkansas’ creative community at Art on the Bricks. While the event takes place every second Thursday of the month, this special holiday edition offers great opportunities to purchase gifts from local artisans.

DECEMBER 14TH

Beer & Carols

Rogers Metroplex Event Center | 5:00 PM

Beer & Carols is a holiday singalong fundraiser benefitting Northwest Arkansas Children's Shelter. Christmas carols and holiday hits will be led by the Beer & Hymns Band, joined by guest horn and string players from around Northwest Arkansas. Dinner, dessert, and one drink ticket are included. All ages are welcome. Go to BeerandCarols.com for tickets.

DECEMBER 21ST

Kids Christmas Movie Day: How the Grinch Stole Christmas

The Music Dept | 3:00 PM

Join The Music Depot for a kids movie day, featuring How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Kids admission includes kid's snacks and a goody bag.

Want to be featured? GET IN TOUCH AT CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/ROGERS

COME PLAY AT THE CREEKS

The Creeks is the ultimate challenge to your every day round. With elevated greens and two creeks running throughout, every shot keeps you coming back for more You come for the competition, but stay for the one-of-akind atmosphere There’s truly nothing like The Creeks

LEVEL UP AT THE 19 HOLE TH

Come visit The Creeks 19th Hole, featuring our brandnew Trackman practice facility with an outdoor bar and TVs at every bay. Beat your competition by keeping your game up to par all winter long in our heated bays! Trackman welcomes beginners just as much as professionals Family time just got a lot more fun!

*Show this page when you visit and get a f ree one-hour bay rental at The 19th Hole!*