Holiday Events in Phoenix

World of Illumination

Candy Rush | Rockin' Christmas | Enchanted Safari

Nov. 15 - Jan. 1

World of Illumination, the producer of the world’s largest drive-through animated light show, presents three all-new theme parks in the Phoenix metro area, featuring spots in Tempe and Glendale.

Diablo Stadium | Six Flags Hurricane Harbor | Desert Diamond Casino

Lights at The Farm

Nov. 23 - Dec. 30

Lights at the Farm at Vertuccio Farms is Arizona’s largest walk-through synchronized Christmas light show. Ten acres of festive light displays. Keep time with popular Christmas songs, guaranteed to spread Christmas cheer. Enjoy delicious food, music, skating, and other family-friendly entertainment. Skating is available for an additional charge.

Vertuccio Farms

ZooLights

Nov. 23 - Jan. 15

This season promises to be bigger and brighter than ever before, with all new animal lanterns and light displays, an enhanced Santa experience and brand-new music and light show that will take you around the world.

Phoenix Zoo

Glendale Glitters

Nov. 22 - Jan. 7

The excitement of Glendale Glitters includes the Murphy Park lights and displays, performances in the amphitheater, the Hometown Christmas Parade, Movies by Moonlight, and additional events held by the downtown merchants.

Murphy Park

Arizona Lights in the Night

Nov. 23 - Jan. 5

There are over a million lights and hundreds of different displays throughout this drive-thru in Mesa. Parents will have the option to buy a light up bear at the beginning of the drive-thru for their kids to make the experience that much better and the memories that much more memorable.

Thompson Event Center

Enchant at Salt River Fields

Nov. 25 - Jan. 1

Experience a world of adventure with awe-inspiring animated light sculptures, and discover a charming Village offering ice-skating, live entertainment, interactive games, dining, holiday shopping, Santa and Mrs. Claus, and so much more.

Salt River Fields

Mesa Tempe Christmas Lights and International Nativity Display

Nov. 25 - Jan. 1

The event – previously called one of the “must-see holiday lighting extravaganzas in the United States” – has drawn over a million visitors annually from across Arizona and far beyond to partake of the Christmas spirit on these temple grounds. This event, one of the largest known volunteer-driven Christmas lighting displays in the country, has been a beloved community tradition in the area since 1979.

Mesa Temple

Sea of Lights

Dec. 1-24

Guests can explore the first annual Sea of Lights event, as Arizona’s largest and only underwater light spectacular, featuring thousands of twinkling lights woven throughout SEA LIFE’s underwater wonderland.

SEA LIFE Arizona

Phoenix Christmas Lights Tour

Dec. 1-31

Come enjoy the sights and sounds as they were meant to be enjoyed with a preplanned route hosted by Spirit of Arizona Tours to see some of the best displays across Greater Phoenix.

Spirit of Arizona Tours

Holiday Nights in Lights

Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23

Bring the entire family to walk The Wigwam's festive light path Fridays in December before Christmas Day. While admiring our holiday displays, be dazzled by princesses, donning their winter dresses while caroling holiday favorites. End the night at Litchfield Lawn with s'mores and hot chocolate.

The Wigwam

Las Noches de las Luminarias

Dec. 9-31, Select Dates

Enjoy live music performances, entertainment and thousands of dazzling hand-lit luminarias at the Garden with family and friends. For 44 years, the Garden’s trails sparkle during this iconic holiday tradition, and it will remind you of what the season is all about. This year, the event will shine extra bright with the inclusion of Chihuly in the Desert.

Desert Botanical Garden

Riparian After Dark

Dec. 9-20

The Riparian Preserve comes alive with a holiday glow! Stroll around the walkways at the Riparian at Water Ranch with thousands of holiday lights and displays at every turn. This is a rare opportunity for those who appreciate nature to experience the thrill of night time at the Preserve.

Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch

Christmas at the Princess

Nov. 18 - Jan. 2

Rediscover the magic of Christmas this winter as the resort transforms into an enchanting holiday wonderland with festive decorations and over 6 million sparkling LED lights. Savor the splendor of the season and discover the place where Christmas cheer lives all season long. Go ice skating and watch colorful light shows in the Enchanted Plaza. Roast marshmallows and make s'mores together. Get your picture taken with Santa Claus and meet our cute holiday characters.

Fairmont Scottsdale Princess

Immersive Nutcracker

Nov. 19 - Dec. 31

Immersive Nutcracker is an ideal family outing, featuring whimsical animated characters alongside footage of professional ballet dancers. This joyful 30-minute immersive experience is an ideal outlet to introduce young children to the art of ballet and the captivating storytelling that often accompanies it. Set to the sweeping music of Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Immersive Nutcracker encompasses visitors in over 500,000 cubic feet of projections composed of over 1 million frames of video, curating a grand immersive display that relays the tale of The Nutcracker from opening to finale.

Lighthouse Artspace

Christmas at Schnepf Farms

Nov. 25 - Dec. 24, Select Dates

Schnepf Farms becomes a winter wonderland, complete with a skating rink, World of Illumination train ride, reindeer hayrides, and mini-golf. To top if all off, the East Valley farm even has the world’s largest inflatable Christmas-themed obstacle course.

Schnepf Farms

Christmas in the Rainforest

Nov. 25 - Dec. 31

Bring family and friends to a seasonal holiday experience, “Christmas in the Rainforest,” featuring an abundance of butterflies from the rainforests of Costa Rica, Africa, and Asia, and enjoy live music from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the butterfly conservatory by violinist Jonathan Levingston on Nov. 28, Dec. 5, and Dec. 12.

Butterfly Wonderland

Winter Waterland at OdySea Aquarium

Nov. 25 - Dec. 31

Visit Arizona’s only SeaTREK Santa who takes center stage, interacting with guests as he appears underwater in the Deep Ocean exhibit. Pose with family and friends for professional photos that feature this jolly sea-loving Santa for the perfect holiday keepsake. Participate in a SeaTREK Santa Scavenger Hunt and send him an adoring letter right from the OdySea Aquarium Discovery Desk (and he’ll write back!). Don’t miss a very special trip on SeaTREK Santa’s sleigh to hear his entertaining, enchanted holiday sea-life narration while riding Voyager as it becomes an oceanic Christmas cruise full of yuletide lights and songs.

OdySea Aquarium

The Magical Christmas Journey to the North Pole

Nov. 25 - Dec. 24, Select Dates

Take a winter wonderland train ride in the Verde Canyon, complete with luminaries, letters to Santa and a live bald eagle. 

Verde Canyon Railroad

Holiday Bricktacular

Dec. 1-24

Learn to build a LEGO® Ornament in the Creative Workshop, meet a life-sized LEGO® Santa, explore the tiniest winter wonderland in Miniland, and snap a pic in a giant LEGO sleigh.

LEGOLAND Discovery Center

"It's a Wonderful Life" at Taliesin West

Dec. 23

The Friday Night Films series provides a new way to enjoy the silver screen – connecting art, architecture, and nature. From old classics to new favorites, there’s something for everyone. Each evening includes a screening in a historic Taliesin West space, followed by a conversation connecting the film to Wright’s legacy.

Taliesin West

Snow Week

Dec. 26-31, Select Dates

Snow Week returns for its eleventh year at Arizona Science Center. With a snowstorm of activities — including the return of the beloved Snow Hill — there’s something for everyone in the family.

Arizona Science Center

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical at Herberger Theater Center

Nov. 19 - Dec. 24, Select Dates

The holiday classic soars off the screen in this musical adaptation of the beloved television special. Filled with holiday hits like "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" and "Holly Jolly Christmas," Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer™ features all of your favorite characters including Santa and Mrs. Claus, Hermey the Elf, Bumble the Abominable Snow Monster, Clarice, Yukon Cornelius and, of course, Rudolph. 

Herberger Theater Center

The Wickhams: Christmas at Pemberley

Dec. 8-23, Select Dates

From the pen of the writer of last season’s hit Silent Sky, and America’s most produced playwright, comes this charming and cleverly imagined sequel to Pride and Prejudice. It is two years later and the Bennet family gathers at Pemberley to celebrate Christmas together. Unlike her witty and vibrant sisters, Mary Bennet is unmarried, nerdy, and growing tired of her role as the obedient middle sister. But an unexpected guest gives Mary the boost she needs to embrace her independence and find true love. 

Herberger Theater Center

The Nutcracker

Dec. 9-24, Select Dates

Ballet Arizona returns to Symphony Hall in grand fashion with this holiday classic. Celebrate the joy and wonder of the season with Ib Andersen’s The Nutcracker as Tchaikovsky’s cherished score is masterfully performed by The Phoenix Symphony. Follow Clara’s wintry adventures as she battles mischievous mice and charms the Sugar Plum Fairy.

Symphony Hall Phoenix

Concert Series: The Merriest

Dec. 16-23, Select Dates

Reserve your seats for The Merriest, the first installment of The Phoenix Theatre Company's Concert Series. Valley favorites Trisha Ditsworth and Matravius Avent take to the stage to bring you an enchanting evening of show tunes, holiday standards, and a few surprises.

The Phoenix Theatre Company

Cirque du Soleil 'Twas the Night Before...

Dec. 16-24

“‘Twas the Night Before…” is an exhilarating spin on the beloved Christmas classic as only Cirque du Soleil can imagine.  This festive show is a flurry of love, Christmas cheer, thrilling acrobatics and hugely lovable characters that is fast becoming a new tradition for families to cherish.

Arizona Financial Theatre

A Winter's Evening with Ryanhood

Dec. 21

An evening of songs and storytelling, heartstrings and laughter, A Winter’s Evening with Ryanhood is a live holiday show based on the Tucson duo’s record On Christmas, which showcases their high-energy, big-harmony, dueling acoustic guitar approach.

Musical Instrument Museum (MIM)

A Traveler Christmas

Dec. 22

A multicultural holiday party fusing Middle Eastern, Celtic, Greek, and Turkish styles with rock.

Musical Instrument Museum (MIM)

Jim Brickman: A Very Merry Christmas

Dec. 29-31

The Grammy-nominated songwriter and pianist returns on a holiday tour celebrating music, love, and family. “Jim Brickman is a worldwide sensation with his soulful piano playing.

Musical Instrument Museum (MIM)

Holiday Pop-Ups at Cham Pang Lanes | Ghost Donkey | Palma

Nov. 15 - Jan. 9

This holiday season, see Châm Pang Lanes turn into Candy Cane Lanes; Ghost Donkey turn into Blitzen; and Palma turn into your Tiki Christmas dreams, with festive decor and delicious limited time holiday cocktails.

Cham Pang Lanes | Ghost Donkey | Palma

Blue Blitzen Holiday Cocktail Pop-Up Bar

Nov. 28 - Dec. 26

Enjoy festive cocktails, over the top décor and holiday-inspired bites at Blue Hound’s fifth-annual holiday pop-up bar.

Blue Hound Kitchen & Cocktails

Miracle at Floor 13

Nov. 30 - Jan. 7

Miracle Bar is a Christmas-themed pop-up cocktail bar that serves holiday cocktails in a festive setting. With kitschy holiday décor, professionally-developed cocktails, and the nostalgic energy of the best office party you’ve ever been to, Miracle is sure to get even the grouchiest grinch in the holiday spirit.

Floor 13 Rooftop Bar

Breakfast with Santa at Litchfield's at The Wigwam

Dec. 3-24, Select Dates

Have a merry morning with a served holiday breakfast buffet in Litchfield's and crafts for the kid's to enjoy at the table or to take home. Santa himself will be joining for pictures during breakfast.

Litchfield's at The Wigwam

Tipsy Grinch Holiday Lounge

Dec. 3-31, Select Dates

Join friends and colleagues for a fun holiday pop-up bar experience completed with over-the-top holiday décor and holiday-inspired craft cocktails served festive glassware. The bar will also include a menu of house-made pretzels and churros prepared by the resort’s culinary team.

Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Gainey Ranch

Christmas Eve Dinner at CIELO

Dec. 24

Come for the great food, enjoy the fantastic views, and stay for the cookie decorating. Enhance your experience with a Wine pairing selected from the cellar.

CIELO at ADERO Scottsdale

Christmas Eve Dinner at Flint by Baltaire

Dec. 24

Indulge in s wood fired a la carte dinner menu, plus delicious features for the evening.

Flint by Baltaire

Christmas at Litchfield's

Dec. 24-25

Enjoy an array of holiday classics, thoughtfully prepared by Executive Sous Chef Chris Knouse, with a three-course pix fixe menu and optional enhancements. You can enjoy Christmas Eve dinner, Christmas Day dinner, or Christmas Day Buffet. 

Litchfield's at The Wigwam

Christmas Brunch at Andaz

Dec. 25

Gather with friends and family at Weft & Warp to enjoy roasted garlic & rosemary leg of lamb, roasted butternut squash, gingerbread cake, and more.

Weft & Warp Art Bar + Kitchen at Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows

Christmas Dinner at Carcara 

Dec. 25

Enjoy a Christmas dinner at Carcara, featuring a special holiday menu and festive cocktails. Regular menu available.

Carcara

Christmas Day Festivities at CIELO

Dec. 25

Indulge in a holiday inspired menu by Executive Chef Chris Kight, with an optional wine pairing enhancement.

CIELO at ADERO Scottsdale

Holiday Celebrations at Royal Palms

Dec. 25

Indulge in a relaxing retreat, taking in the bold and beautiful decorations, specially curated menus, flavorful cocktails and cheer spread throughout

Royal Palms Resort and Spa

Skate Westgate

Nov. 4 - Jan. 16

Skate Westgate hosts 3,500-square-feet of real ice in the heart of the district’s plaza in Fountain Park. Onsite tickets and skate rentals will still be available on a first-come, first-served basis at the ticket booth located near the ice rink, single-use and season passes are available.

Westgate Entertainment District

Sock Skating at Children's Museum of Phoenix

Nov. 19 - Jan. 9

Slide into fun at the annual event at the Children’s Museum of Phoenix! Kids and adults alike will have a blast skating on white, slippery tiles reminiscent of ice but without the chill.

Children's Museum of Phoenix

Cityskate Holiday Ice Rink

Nov. 28 - Jan. 1

Located in the center of downtown's CityScape Phoenix, the CitySkate rink is different in design and size than in years past, but will still offer freshly surfaced ice, twinkling holiday lights and festive décor, all set within the heart of the city.

CityScape Phoenix