The 1905 Basin Park Hotel, perched on the eve of its Centennial Celebration, will once again serve as the hub of the holiday wheel for this Victorian Ozark community that is located just 50 minutes southwest of Branson. In the center of more than 100 shops, restaurants and bistros, this full-service hotel offers guests a much preferred "park once and play" opportunity in addition to great holiday packages.

"Holiday packages are much more than those adorned with colorful wrap, ribbons and bows," said Jack Moyer, general manager of this historic hotel. "At The Basin Park we have put together a package this year that is a reward for both the giver and the receiver: The Shop Together ~ Stay Together Package."

The "Shop Together ~ Stay Together Package" offers guests an upgrade from a regular room to a suite, a spa treatment for two at the hotel's Serenity Spa, a Starbucks' breakfast in the hotel's Eureka Springs' Coffee Company, and a delightful dinner for two in the hotel's heated, alfresco-style Balcony Bar & Restaurant. A complimentary holiday wrapped spa basket welcomes package guests as they enter their suite.

"Eureka Springs has long been known as a great place for mom and daughter, or best friends to get away for a couple days," Moyer added, "especially during the holiday season when the making of memories is as traditional as colorful lights. This package provides that opportunity."

The hotel extends its holiday hospitality by offering hotel guests complimentary gift wrapping accompanied by hot apple cider every afternoon until Christmas from four to six o'clock.

Other special holiday happenings at The Basin Park Hotel include The War Eagle Fish Fry every Friday night until December 10th and features fish battered in the famous War Eagle Mill batter, their famous rolls and hush puppies along with all the other "fixin's." Bluegrass music from The Doe Brothers will keep fry attendees well entertained.

The hotel will repeat as the parade headquarters for the annual Christmas Parade on Friday, December 3. Hotel balconies and front portico will be the sight for radio and television crews as well as families who prefer a "bird's eye view" of the gala trail of floats, bands and rolling decorations.

"In an effort to say 'Thank you' to all our guests during this holiday season, we have put together a 'Shop-'Til-You-Drop' coupon book offering discounts to our local merchants," noted hotel front desk manager Chris Schaum. "As wonderful as our local shops are, we make the deal a little sweeter with these discount coupons."

Patrons can also purchase hotel gift certificates to give as gifts at a discount. "Now thru December 15 gift certificates for lodging, meals or spa treatments can be purchased at a 10-percent discount," said Schaum. "This beautiful certificate makes the perfect holiday gift especially when you consider it can be redeemed during our hotel's centennial celebration year."