While Arizona may not look like the traditional winter wonderland, there are still plenty of ways to get into the holiday spirit! All throughout the Valley, there are a number of fun things to do around the holidays including seeing festive lights, ice skating, or watching a holiday themed show. With Christmas and New Year’s coming up, the team at P.B. Bell has compiled some of the best holiday events to bring the cheer and ring in the new year. 

ZooLights

Zoo lights are a classic holiday event in Arizona. Located at the Phoenix Zoo, families can experience the magic of the zoo illuminated by countless twinkling lights and 66 animal-themed light displays. Highlights include lions, Tigers, and bears. Oh my! There is also a giant peacock, polar bear, and mammoth. 

Las Noches de Las Luminarias 

This holiday event is a 44 year-long tradition at Phoenix’s Desert Botanical Garden. Visitors can feel the holiday cheer as they walk through the gardens alongside thousands of glowing lanterns. The luminarias are complemented by live music and an interactive photo booth.

Tumbleweed Tree: A Very Chandler Christmas

This Christmas event in Arizona started back in 1957. Located in downtown Chandler, you can visit the iconic tumbleweed tree throughout the holiday season to peruse through the exhibition highlighting the tree’s rich history and tradition in the Valley. The tree lighting ceremony will take place on December 4 and will feature a variety of festive performances, plus a special visit from Santa Claus himself!.

A Winnie The Pooh Christmas Tail 

Watching A Winnie The Pooh Christmas Tail at the Valley Youth Theatre in downtown Phoenix is the perfect holiday family activity! The show runs from December 3 through December 23 and shares the importance of cultivating friendships and being kind around the holidays. 

Winter Wonderland Ice Rink

After downtown Mesa’s Christmas tree lighting ceremony on November 26, the Winter Wonderland Ice Rink will officially open up and kick off the holiday season! This outdoor ice rink is a fun holiday event in Arizona, part of Mesa’s Merry Main Street. It is $10 for one hour of skating which includes skate rentals. 

World of Illumination

Want to enjoy some holiday lights without having to leave the comfort of your car? Head over to Glendale for the World of Illumination — the world’s largest drive-thru light experience! Dates and times are still TBD but you can keep up the website for updates. 

Christmas at the Princess

With more than six million twinkling lights on display, this classic Scottsdale holiday family activity is a must see! Bundle up and enjoy some ice skating, s’mores, photos with Santa Claus, live performances, and a variety of kid-friendly activities.  

The Valley may be lacking in snow and evergreen trees, but there are still plenty of ways to get your fill of holiday spirit and cheer! If you do decide to check out any of these Christmas events in Arizona, be sure to check out the event websites and social media for any social distancing guidelines and updates. Happy holidays!