The Great Passion Play

About

Since 1968, The Great Passion Play in Eureka Springs, Arkansas has drawn over 8 million visitors to witness a powerful retelling of the last days of Jesus Christ. This hour-and-forty-five-minute outdoor drama unfolds across a massive multi-level stage set against the natural beauty of the Ozark Mountains, making it America's number one attended outdoor drama.

The production runs on select nights from Good Friday through early November, with roughly 70 performances each season. A cast of over 150 actors and live animals brings the story to life, covering Christ's life, death, resurrection, and ascension. The scale of the production is genuinely impressive, with elaborate sets, costumes, and lighting effects that create a memorable experience regardless of your background.

Beyond the play itself, the grounds offer several other attractions worth exploring. The Christ of the Ozarks statue stands seven stories tall and is open year-round from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM (extending to 11:00 PM on performance nights). Visitors can also explore the Holy Land Tour, a Bible Museum, a Sacred Arts Center, and the New Holy Land, which recreates scenes from ancient Jerusalem.

Eureka Springs itself is a charming Victorian-era town nestled in the mountains, known for its winding streets, historic architecture, and vibrant arts scene. Many visitors combine a trip to the play with a stay in this unique small town.

For planning purposes, arrive early to explore the grounds before the evening performance. Seating is open, so getting there ahead of time helps you find the best spot. The amphitheater is outdoors, so dress for the weather and bring layers, as Ozark evenings can cool down even in summer. Concessions are available on-site. Ticket prices vary by seating section, and group rates are available for parties of 15 or more. Check the official website for the current season schedule and to purchase tickets in advance, especially for popular dates around Easter and summer weekends.

Accessibility

The Great Passion Play amphitheater is wheelchair accessible. Two sloped ramps are located on the left and right sides of the theater, providing access to seating areas. A third ramp on the far right side of the theater is completely level, offering an easier approach for wheelchair users and those with mobility challenges.

The grounds around the Christ of the Ozarks statue and other attractions are set in hilly Ozark terrain, which may present challenges for some visitors with mobility limitations. The amphitheater seating is outdoors on a hillside, so conditions can vary with weather.

Contact the venue directly for current details about accessible parking locations, accessible restroom facilities, companion seating arrangements, and any assistive listening devices or sensory accommodations that may be available. If you have specific accessibility needs, calling ahead is recommended so staff can help plan your visit and ensure comfortable seating placement near the accessible ramps.

The official website and box office can provide up-to-date information about any recent accessibility improvements or temporary changes to access routes during your planned visit dates.

More accessible places in Arkansas

• Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge (Eureka Springs)
• Crescent Hotel & Spa (Eureka Springs)
• Eureka Springs Historic District (Eureka Springs)
• Arkansas Post National Memorial (Gillett)
• Buffalo National River (St. Joe)
• Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site (Little Rock)