Celebrating the Holidays in The Valley
As the desert cools and the Valley twinkles to life, there’s no shortage of festive cheer this month. Whether you’re planning a family outing or a festive night out with friends, here are some of the best ways to celebrate the season!
Top Holiday Highlights
Las Noches de las Luminarias at Desert Botanical Garden
Select nights until Dec 30 | 1201 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix
This Southwest-inspired holiday tradition features over 8,000 hand-lit luminarias and twinkle lights throughout the desert trails. The warm glow, paired with live music and seasonal bites, creates a serene and magical evening in the garden.
Holiday Lights at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
Through Dec 30 | 7301 E Indian Bend Rd, Scottsdale
The park transforms into a shimmering winter wonderland with dazzling lights and festive displays throughout the grounds, perfect for a family night out. Ride the historic Paradise & Pacific Railroad (and the vintage carousel) under twinkling lights, enjoy hot cocoa, and soak in the holiday spirit.
Chanukah in Carefree
Dec 14–21 | Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion, 101 Easy St, Carefree
A week-long celebration featuring nightly menorah lightings, music, children’s activities, and community gatherings. The charming Carefree Desert Gardens make the event feel warm and intimate. A beautiful way for families to celebrate Hanukkah outdoors.
Christmas at The Princess
Through Jan 3 | 7575 E Princess Dr, Scottsdale
One of Arizona’s largest holiday festivals, the Princess transforms into a spectacular winter wonderland with millions of lights, rides, ice skating, and themed experiences. Families can enjoy nightly shows, s’mores pits, and character meet-and-greets in a luxury setting.
ZooLights
Through Jan 16 | 455 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix
The zoo glows with millions of lights, life-size animal lanterns, and a dazzling 200-foot light tunnel. Visitors can enjoy festive music, hot chocolate, and beautifully illuminated pathways throughout the grounds.
Scottsdazzle Holiday Extravaganza
Through Dec 21 | Old Town Scottsdale
Old Town comes alive with concerts, light installations, family activities, wine tastings, and an impressive tree lighting event. The festival offers dozens of themed experiences throughout the month, making it perfect for repeat visits.
OY to the World
Dec 18 | Ina Levine JCC, 12701 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale
A lively Hanukkah celebration featuring music, activities, treats, and family programming. The event brings together the community with joyful traditions and fun for all ages.
More Festive Things To Do
Nutcracker Ballet
Dec 13–24 | Symphony Hall, 75 N 2nd St, Phoenix
A Phoenix holiday classic, this production blends exquisite sets, live orchestration, and world-class choreography. It’s one of the most elegant and magical family outings of the season.
Holiday Markets at Arizona Boardwalk
December Weekends | 9500 E Via de Ventura, Scottsdale
This open-air market features local vendors, artisan gifts, holiday décor, food trucks, and family entertainment. It’s a great spot to shop small and enjoy seasonal displays near the aquarium and butterfly exhibit.
Holiday Tea at The Phoenician
Select Dates in Dec | 6000 E Camelback Rd, Scottsdale
A refined holiday experience featuring seasonal pastries, premium teas, and stunning resort views. Perfect for adults looking for a luxurious seasonal outing or mother-daughter tradition.
World of Illumination Light Show
Through Jan 4 | Tempe & Glendale Venues
Drive through millions of synchronized lights set to holiday music in this immersive, animated light spectacle. Each location has a different theme and is perfect for families who want a cozy, stay-in-the-car holiday outing.
Make This Season Feel Like Home
If you’ve been thinking about settling into a neighborhood that feels like home all year long, now is a great time to start your search. And what better way to celebrate the holidays than by finding a home you truly love right here in Arizona? Reach out today to spend your best holiday yet in the Valley!
