The holiday season in the Valley of the Sun is full of lights, music, festive food, and fun for everyone—whether you’re looking for family-friendly adventures or a night out with friends. Here’s a roundup of the best things to do in Phoenix, Scottsdale, and the surrounding East and West Valleys this holiday season.
Family-Friendly Fun
1. ZooLights at the Phoenix Zoo (Phoenix)
One of the Valley’s most beloved traditions, ZooLights transforms the Phoenix Zoo into a winter wonderland with millions of twinkling lights. Families can enjoy light displays, holiday crafts, and even visits with Santa.
2. McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park Holiday Train (Scottsdale)
Take a festive ride on the Holiday Railroad through sparkling light displays. The park also hosts seasonal train exhibits, holiday-themed crafts, and hot cocoa for the little ones.
3. Holiday Festival at Desert Botanical Garden (Phoenix)
Explore the stunning Desert Botanical Garden illuminated with holiday lights. Seasonal entertainment, art installations, and kid-friendly activities make this a magical evening for all ages.
4. LEGOLAND Holiday Bricktacular (Tempe)
For LEGO lovers, the Bricktacular event is full of festive builds, interactive activities, and even LEGO Santa sightings. It’s a hands-on holiday adventure perfect for families.
5. Westgate Winter Wonderland (Glendale)
This free, family-friendly event in the West Valley features ice skating, live music, Santa meet-and-greets, and beautiful light displays. Perfect for a weekend outing with kids.
Adults-Only Holiday Experiences
1. Arizona Biltmore Holiday Cocktail Tour (Phoenix)
Sip on festive cocktails while enjoying the historic Biltmore’s beautiful holiday décor. Some tours even include live music or themed dinner pairings.
2. Scottsdale ArtWalk & Holiday Shopping (Scottsdale)
Combine art, shopping, and holiday cheer with Scottsdale’s evening ArtWalks. Stroll galleries, enjoy wine tastings, and shop for unique gifts.
3. Ice Skating at CitySkate (Scottsdale Waterfront)
Even adults can embrace their inner child with ice skating at the scenic Waterfront. Grab a drink at nearby restaurants and enjoy the holiday ambiance under the lights.
4. Holiday Wine & Beer Festivals (Various Locations)
The Valley hosts seasonal wine and craft beer events throughout December. From tasting local wines to trying festive brews, it’s a perfect way to celebrate with friends.
5. Musical & Theater Performances (Phoenix & Tempe)
Catch holiday-themed performances at the Herberger Theater Center, Orpheum Theatre, or ASU Gammage. Productions range from classic ballets like The Nutcracker to contemporary holiday plays.
Neighborhood Holiday Light Tours
If you love holiday lights but prefer a casual outing, several neighborhoods in the Phoenix area are famous for their festive displays:
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East Valley: Ahwatukee Foothills and Gilbert neighborhoods often go all out with lights and decorations.
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West Valley: Surprise and Peoria have community light displays and even drive-through light experiences.
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Phoenix & Central Valley: Arcadia and North Phoenix neighborhoods are consistently known for creative, over-the-top decorations.
Tips for Enjoying the Holiday Season in the Valley
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Plan ahead: Many ticketed events sell out early, especially ZooLights and Desert Botanical Garden Nights.
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Dress in layers: Even though it’s Arizona, desert evenings can get chilly.
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Traffic & parking: Popular holiday spots can get crowded—arrive early to secure parking.
Whether you’re looking for family-friendly experiences or an adults-only holiday outing, the Phoenix area is full of festive events and activities this season. Bundle up, grab a cup of cocoa (or a holiday cocktail), and make the most of the Valley’s sparkling holiday offerings!
