2022 holiday events for Arizona families

Last updated: December 6, 2022. 

Celebrate the upcoming holidays with some of these local events and experiences. Start a new tradition with a performance, tree or menorah lighting, Santa pictures, drive through light shows, or ice skating! Make the most of this holiday season. No matter where you live we’ve done our best to include holiday events from Northern Arizona, Southern Arizona, and the Metro-Phoenix areas!

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Spend the Holidays in Tempe, Arizona

To see all the family friendly holiday events in Tempe this year click here!

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ANTHEM

Through Dec.24. Outlets at Anthem. For the 21st consecutive year, Outlets at Anthem will be home to Arizona’s tallest fresh-cut Christmas tree! Plus, visit Santa in his cottage on the north side of the Food Court. Santa is available for visits and photos near Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory now through Christmas Eve. Hours are 11am-7pm daily with a break from 2:30-3:30pm. Christmas Eve hours are 10am-5pm with a break from 1-1:45pm. Shoppers can bring their domesticated dogs and cat during this time to visit and capture a photo with Santa! Reservations are strongly recommended for photos but not required.

Dec. 3. Enchanted Holiday Festival. Are you ready for a silly snowball fight with Santa (with foam balls)? Tickets include an ornament to decorate and a raffle ticket. Enjoy additional paid options for face painting, reindeer pony rides, photos with Santa, a gingerbread workshop, treats, yummy food and boutique shopping. No charge for babies under 12 months. Free parking. Bring the whole family 3Z RANCH, 48109 North Black Canyon Highway, New River.

APACHE JUNCTION

Dec. 3. Holiday Program and Light Parade. Join the City of Apache Junction Parks & Recreation on Saturday, December 3rd for this award winning, FREE downtown event!  The event will take place at Flatiron Park from 3pm-6:30pm. There will be lots of activities throughout the evening for the whole family! Activities include: Santa, vendor booths, arts and crafts, games, music, inflatables, food, Tree lighting at the Focal point and will conclude with the Annual Holiday Light Parade. Most of the youth activities will be free but there will be vendors and food options. The tree lighting will begin around 6:30pm. Afterward, stick around and join us for the light parade! 100 N Apache Trail, Apache Junction.

CAREFREE/CAVECREEK

Dec.18-Dec.25. Chanukah in Carefree is hosting its 6th season. Join them every evening at 5:30pm during Chanukah 2022. Enjoy presentations and the menorah lighting led by community leaders each night under the stars. Each year, Chanukah in Carefree selects a local charity to support through charitable giving. This year’s charity is Foothills Caring Corps. Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion. 101 Easy Street, Carefree. visitcarefree.com

Dec.3. Carefree Lights Up! Tree Lighting Ceremony. 6-7:30pm. Join Carefree as they light up the Town for the holidays! Desert Hills Presbyterian Church Carolers, along with local music talent, Kevin Glenn, will delight guests with the sounds of Christmas.

Dec. 9-11. Western Holidays at Stagecoach. Western Holidays was created to offer the community a family friendly Holiday Celebration. Free Admission with toy or food donation to Operation Santa Claus. The Yuletide Market will feature local artists, handcrafted holiday wares and other items perfect for the gift – giving season. Children’s activities will include singing, dancing, face painting, ornament making and many other activities. Cowbells Crazy Christmas Hat Contest will take place Saturday afternoon. Saturday night will be the Holiday Balloon Glow at 5:30 pm. BALLOON EVENTS ARE DEPENDENT UPON WEATHER CONDITIONS. the Crown Kings will be playing 5 pm – 9 pm. You won’t want to miss the beer and wine garden……..YEP—A Christmas Tractor Parade will take place Friday & Saturday night. .And yes, Mr. & Mrs. Santa Claus will be on hand for pictures and story telling. Friday 10 a.m-7 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-10 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 7100 E Cave Creek Rd, Cave Creek. Be sure to bring your friends and family. 480-282-4370 or click here.

CHANDLER

Nov. 10-Dec. 24. Photos with Santa. The magic of the holiday season comes alive with a visit to Santa’s winter wonderland. Santa will be here starting November 10th and is located on the lower level, Macy’s Court. A visit with Santa is always free and photo packages are available for purchase. Reservations recommended. Chandler Fashion Center, 3111 W Chandler Blvd, Chandler.

Nov. 25-27 & Dec. 2-4. Ballet Etudes “The Nutcracker” Let Clara’s magical journey surround you as she encounters life-size mice, swirling snowflakes, dancing confections, and the Sugar Plum Fairy. A feast for the eyes and ears with colorful costumes paired with Tchaikovsky’s original score, Ballet Etudes’ Nutcracker is the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season with the entire family.  $23 and up. Check for times. Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler. 480-782-2680 or chandlercenter.org

Nov. 29-Dec. 20. Polar PJ Party. Wear your favorite holiday PJ’s and join us at 10:30AM for a FREE party every Tuesday just outside of Wildflower and Dillard’s. To find out themes or more information click here.

Dec. 22. 8th Day Chanukah Concert for Families. Join Chabad of the East valley to welcome 8TH DAY to Chandler for a very special Chanukah family concert on December 22nd. Tickets are on sale now at chabadcenter.com/8thday. 1825 E. Elliot Rd., Tempe. 480-855-4333 or chabadcenter.com

Awaiting details. Dec. 4.  Santa Saturday. Crossroads Towne Marketplace welcomes your family to a holiday celebration on Dec. 4 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.! Meet Santa, get a free photo, play fun and festive holiday games with Funergy, and make a new ornament for the tree. 3757 S Gilbert Rd, Chandler. shopcrossroadsstc.com

Awaiting details. Through Dec. 18. Rawhide Snowy Christmas. The Town is illuminated with over a million lights and is decked out with holiday. Rawhide will feature holiday festivities nightly during general public hours (5pm-10pm). Admission is FREE! Every Friday & Saturday night, Santa will lead the official tree lighting ceremony and be available for photos. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the nightly snowfall down Main Street and all of the town lit up. Rawhide Western Town: 5700 W. North Loop Road, Chandler. Rawhide.com

FLAGSTAFF

Nov. 25-Dec. 18. Miracle on 24th Street. A cast of 32 brings this holiday classic to the stage. When a nice old man who claims to be Santa Claus is institutionalized as insane, a young lawyer defends him by arguing in court that he is the real thing—thus exemplifying the true magic of the season. Theatrikos Theatre Company, 11 West Cherry Ave., Flagstaff.(928)774-1662 or visit here for tickets.

Dec. 3. Winter Wonderland and Tree Lighting. Kick off your holiday season in Downtown Flagstaff – home of Arizona’s Winter Wonderland! 3-6pm. Free, family friendly. Beginning at 3pm there will be hot cocoa, s’mores, crafts, performances from members of the Flagstaff Community Band and more! The Tree Lighting takes place at 5:45pm. Make sure to stick around and grab a selfie with Santa! Presented by the Flagstaff Downtown Business Alliance & Flagstaff Parks and Recreation.

Dec. 3, 10, 17. Breakfast with Santa. Join the Flagstaff Downtown Business Alliance and The Weatherford Hotel for a magical morning! Enjoy a hot breakfast buffet, holiday crafts, and Christmas tunes! Santa, the guest of honor, will lead in a Christmas story and sing-a-long! Guests are encouraged to dress up in holiday attire or wear their coziest pajamas to look festive for their selfies with Santa! To purchase tickets click here.

Dec. 3, 10, 17. Winter Movies Series. Winter Movie Series is back! Enjoy some of your favorite holiday movies (Home Alone, Elf, The Polar Express) at this FREE, family friendly event! Doors at 9:30am, with winter crafts to entertain until the movie starts at 10:00am! This free event does not require tickets, but if you would like to reserve your spot, click here. Orpheum Theater, 5 W Aspen Ave, Flagstaff.

Dec. 10. Snowflake Festival. FREE event at the Flagstaff Visitor Center – Pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus (take your own or pay $1 for a polaroid), games and crafts, law enforcement toy drive (new, packaged toys only), and free goodie bags (while supplies last). 12-4 p.m.

Dec. 10-11, 16-31. Skate at the Station. FREE skating rink at the Flagstaff Visitor Center for the holiday season! The rink will be operated by the Shadows foundation, a Flagstaff non-profit organization that is dedicated to helping those affected by life threatening diseases. There will also be fun special events scheduled at the rink with a toy drive, food drive, and more! 12-6 p.m.

Through Dec. 24. The North Pole Experience. Delight in the magic of the holiday season at Santa’s enchanting, 400-year-old workshop. Join us for an unforgettable North Pole experience inside the toy factory, Mrs. Claus’s bakery, Elf University, Santa’s Sleigh Hanger, and family time and photos with St. Nick himself. Santa’s massive workshop is one impressive sight to see. Take a peek at the place before you arrive, we won’t tell the elves. 480-779-9679 or northpoleexperience.com

FOUNTAIN HILLS

Nov. 14-Dec.31. Holiday Mart at the River of Time Museum. 10 a.m-4 p.m. It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas at the L. Alan Cruikshank River of Time Museum & Exploration Center. The annual Holiday Mart is open for business, and the merchandise is eclectic, rare, vintage, fun, serious and displayed in such a way that shoppers will have a hard time making decisions on their purchases. 12901 N La Montana Dr., Fountain Hills. 602-652-3261 or riveroftime.center

Dec. 3. Stroll in the Glow. This traditional local event is the perfect place to celebrate the festivities of the holidays. Join Mayor Ginny Dickey as thousands of twinkling lights are illuminated; The Stroll will feature the traditional “lighting of the Avenue” around 5:45, on the Avenue of the Fountains – including the official Town of Fountain Hills Christmas Tree!  In addition to the lighting of the Avenue, the Stroll in the Glow will also feature the man in the big red suit…Santa Claus himself in a big red fire truck! Santa will arrive just about 6:00 PM for free photos, provided by the Fountain Hills Chamber of Commerce.

GILBERT

Nov. 17-Dec. 24. Photos with Santa. The magic of the holiday season comes alive at San Tan Village with a visit to Santa’s winter wonderland. Santa will be here starting November 17th and is located on Desert Breeze Drive between SALT Tacos and Thirsty Lion. A visit with Santa is always free and photo packages are available for purchase. Reservations recommended. 

Dec. 1-24. A Christmas Carol. This spectacular, heart-warming version of Dickens’ classic tale of redemption is magically brought to life on the Hale Stage. This production is rich with traditional carols, stunning costumes, and memorable characters that are guaranteed to enrich the holiday season for you and your family. Hale Centre Theatre, 50 W. Page Ave., Gilbert. 480-497-1181 or haletheatrearizona.com

Dec. 4. Santa Cares: A Sensory Friendly Santa Experience. SanTan Village is partnering with Cherry Hill Programs in collaboration with Autism Speaks to provide a sensory friendly event to bring the holiday magic to everyone – individuals of all ages and abilities. Sensory Friendly Events create connections with individuals within all spectrums of special needs. We achieve this through training and a compassionate environment where families are encouraged to visit Santa at their own pace.  Our sensory friendly event will take place at the Santa Set, near Thirsty Lion, from 9:30 to 10:30am. 2218 E Williams Field Rd., Gilbert. Make your reservation here.

GLENDALE

Nov. 5-Dec. 24. Santa’s Wonderland. Starting Nov. 5th Experience the magic of Christmas at Santa’s Wonderland at your local Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s! 9380 W Glendale Ave, Glendale. Reservations recommended.

Nov. 10-Dec. 24. Photos with Santa. The magic of the holiday season comes alive with a visit to Santa’s winter wonderland. Santa will be here starting November 10 and is located at JCPenney Court. A visit with Santa is always free and photo packages are available for purchase. Reservations recommended. Arrowhead Mall. 7700 W. Arrowhead Towne Center, Glendale. 

Nov.23-Jan. 1. World of Illumination is the worlds largest drive-through animated light show. Gear up for one wild holiday adventure. Trek over land, sea and air to hear the jingle of the jungle. A host of exotic animals will be there to greet you from peacocks to piranhas. Soar among the clouds as you fly with reindeer then outrun a T-Rex as you whiz past a land lost in time.  Come face to face with the King of the Jungle and beware of the Tunnel of Tentacles where you’ll fend off sharks and jellyfish trying to steal your holiday spirit. Your journey ends at Santa’s Bazaar, where all your new animal friends will be decking the halls! Be sure to buckle up — it’s a jungle out there. This mile-long journey features millions of colorful lights and enchanting holiday music— a must see treat for the entire family. 6 to 10 p.m. daily. Tickets start at $39.99 per vehicle. Desert Diamond Casino: 9431 W. Northern Ave., Glendale.  worldofillumination.com

Nov. 22-Jan.7. Glendale Glitters. 5:00 – 10:00 p.m. each evening. 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. FREE parking all season long is available at the City Hall Parking Garage and the Bank of America Parking Garage. 

Nov. 28-Dec. 23. Christmas Trees on the Farm. There is nothing like the smell of fresh cut pine trees and a cold snap in the air to let you know that Christmas is near. Come pick out your family’s Christmas tree! Tolmachoff Farms, 5726 N. 75th Ave., Glendale.

Dec. 10. Hometown Christmas Parade. 11 a.m. Glendale’s Hometown Christmas parade is an opportunity to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas by gathering together as a community of families, businesses, churches, organizations, including schools to encourage each other with a great parade experience. The parade not only shares the reason for the season but also facilitates a canned food drive supporting Hope for Hunger.  Visit HERE for more information on the parade.

Dec. 16. Movies by Moonlight. Pre-Movie activities begin at 5:00 p.m. The Grinch will begin at 6:30 p.m. The Harkins Popcorn Truck and Elote Man food trucks will be on site.
For the season line up of Movies by Moonlight, click HERE.

MESA

Nov. 5-Dec. 24. Santa’s Wonderland. Starting Nov. 5th Experience the magic of Christmas at Santa’s Wonderland at your local Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s! Bass Pro Shops.133 N Dobson Rd, Mesa. Reservations recommended. 

Nov. 22-23, Dec. 20-23. Main Street Harvest’s Holiday Market. Each this market hosts a large selection of local artisans, crafters, and makers inside the store for two exciting holiday shopping events. This year there will be 18 holiday vendors in addition to 90+ regular grocery vendors with exciting products from jewelry to crayons to home decor and everything in between! Mark your calendar now so you don’t miss out on the fun. Shop online for in-store pickup or visit us in person Tuesday-Saturday 8am-6pm and Sunday 10am-pm. 121 W Main St., Mesa. 480-428-8305 or mainstreetharvest.com

Nov 22-Jan 1. Pratt Brothers Christmas and Holiday Spectacular. The biggest Christmas celebration in Arizona. Arizona’s premier light show and family experience during the holiday season. This one-of-a-kind experience will bring families a night filled with a never-before-seen light show, a revolutionary train ride and live entertainment. This groundbreaking experience will perfectly blend old and new traditions that will bring people of all ages together. $14.99/person. $75 VP experience. Bell Bank Park, 1 Legacy Dr. Mesa. Purchase tickets here. 

Nov. 25-26. Santa’s Merry Makers Market. Looking for the perfect holiday gift this season? There is no place like Downtown Mesa! Join the elves Nov. 25 and 26 to shop from local crafters and artisans. Then continue your shopping with the many unique stores along Main Street. Saturday, November 26th aligns with Small Business Saturday and an opportunity to be rewarded while you shop with our Shop Small promotion. 1 N Macdonald, Mesa.

Nov. 25-26. Holiday Market at Bell Bank Park. 200+ Vendors, live music, kid zone, $5 entry, free parking. Come shop local for the holidays! 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Bell Bank Park, 1 Legacy Drive, Mesa. 

Nov. 25-Jan. 7. Mesa’s Merry Main Street is a spectacular celebration of the holiday season in downtown Mesa. The festivities include music, food and fun for everyone. A nearly four-story tall Christmas Tree, with a lighting ceremony at 5:00 p.m on opening night. Other key attractions are local crafters and artisans, Mesa’s Polar Express, Jack Frost Food Truck Forest, Santa’s sELFie stations with visits from Santa on Friday and Saturday evenings and much more. Free. City Plaza, 20 E. Main St., Mesa. merrymainst.com

Dec. 1-11. Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus. Two compelling stories come together in this heartwarming play inspired by the famous editorial by Francis P. Church in Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus. On Christmas Eve, 1897, in New York City, eight-year-old Virginia is left pondering whether Santa really exists after a series of unhappy events. Meanwhile, a young newspaper editor also struggles against tough holiday times as he is faced with losing his job if he can’t find his writer’s voice by morning. Even though they don’t know each other, the spirit of Christmas is about to bring these people together, creating in the process an unforgettable and cherished part of classic Christmas folklore. East Valley Children’s Theatre. $15/person.7PM on Thursdays and Fridays, 4 & 7PM on Saturdays, 2PM on Sundays. Performances at Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main St., Mesa. Tickets can be purchased here. 

Dec. 3. Self-Guided Reindeer Roll & Stroll. 4-8 p.m. Join the City of Mesa’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Program for the first-ever, sELF-guided Reindeer Roll and Stroll! Explore Downtown Mesa in this FREE and festive scavenger hunt for a chance to win great prizes, including a bicycle. Participants can enjoy the sounds of holiday carolers, a FREE treat from Novel Ice Cream, and a FREE bicycle helmet while supplies last. Team costumes are encouraged – Wear your favorite holiday sweater or dress up as a reindeer or elf to spread extra holiday cheer! mesaaz.gov/bikeped

Dec. 9. Merry Museums. Arizona Museum of Natural History and the i.d.e.a. Museum, two family-friendly museums in Downtown Mesa, will offer free admission from 5:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. on Friday, December 9. This special event is during the Merry Main Street activities. At the Arizona Museum of Natural History, visitors can take a selfie with a dinosaur, try their hand at gold panning or wander through an ancient village of the ancestral Sonoran Desert dwellers. At the i.d.e.a. Museum, guests experience unique hands-on art exhibitions and engaging STEAM programs. More museum activities can be found online at arizonamuseumofnaturalhistory.org and ideaMuseum.org .

Nov. 23-Dec. 30.  Lights at the Farm features 2 million dazzling lights and displays synchronized to a variety of Christmas classics. Lights at the Farm and Vertuccio Farms have partnered together to bring Arizona’s Largest Walk-Thru Synchronized Light Show. Come on out and unwrap new traditions and make memories with your family and friends as you make your way through the dazzling lights, larger-than-life lighted displays, mesmerizing tunnel of lights and so much more. Weeknight tickets are $15, and weekend tickets are $18. Skating, which includes skate rental, is an additional $10. 4011 S. Power Road, Mesa. 480-882 1482. Advanced purchase and skating reservations are recommended at www.lightsatthefarm.com.

PAYSON/PINE

Nov. 25. Annual Swiss Village Christmas Lighting. Bring the Family for FREE Crafts, Music by DJ Craig, Pictures with Mr. & Mrs. Clause, Food and Craft Vendors, Face Painting, Raffle Drawings, Balloon Twisters, Train Rides, Bounce Houses, and Holiday Deals throughout the Swiss Village Shops. Fun for the whole family and a great way to spend your holiday weekend. FREE. 602-558-7943.

Nov. 25-Dec. 18. Santa’s Workshop at The Rusty Pine Cone. Santa & Mrs. Clause, FREE hot Cocoa, Photo Opp, Special shopping area for kids – guided by Santa’s helpers. Every Saturday 11AM-3PM & every Sunday. 12-2. 3788 N AZ HWY 87, Pine. For more details call 612-467-9959 or click here.

Dec. 3. Chamber Christmas Market. Great place to find a unique, one-of-a-kind gift for your loved ones! 1-4 p.m. Chamber parking lot (corner of Main St & Beeline Hwy).

Dec. 3. Electric Light Parade.This Annual Main Street Parade will transform Historic Main Street into a magical holiday wonderland!Starts at 6 p.m. See lights floats, and celebrate the season with this year’s theme: Vintage Christmas.

PEORIA

Nov. 18-Dec. 29. A Christmas Carol. Everyone’s favorite curmudgeon Ebenezer Scrooge returns to the ABT stage! This lavish and thrilling Broadway adaptation of Charles Dickens’ story breathes fantastic new life into the classic tale of Christmas tidings and heart-warming generosity. Bring the whole family and join Tiny Tim, Jacob Marley, and Bob Cratchit as they sing Alan Menken and Lynn Ahrens’s beloved favorites, including “A Jolly Good Time,” “Christmas Together,” and “Link By Link.” When planning your holiday season, this is a must-see! Check for ticket prices and times. Arizona Broadway Theatre, 7701 W Paradise Ln., Peoria. 623-776-8400 or azbroadway.org

Dec.2-24. A Christmas Carol. Dickens’ cherished characters Ebenezer Scrooge, Bob Cratchit and Tiny Tim come to life on the TheaterWorks stage. Watch as valley-renowned actor, Louis Farber portrays Scrooge, the eternal curmudgeon with wit, charm and just the right amount of humor.  Spend your holidays with family and friends at this classic Christmas production that reminds all of us of the true meaning of Christmas. Delight in extraordinary visuals, gorgeous costumes and eye-popping effects bringing to life the story of generosity’s triumph over greed in the best Christmas tale ever told. Adapted by Richard Powers Hardt. 623-815-1791 or theaterworks.org

Dec. 10. Old Town Holiday Festival. The City of Peoria invites the community out to enjoy the annual Old Town Holiday Festival. Take a stroll through Old Town Peoria and enjoy the festive and fun holiday activities, including the following: Live entertainment, horse drawn carriage and wagon rides, local merchants and vendors, gingerbread house display, food trucks, Santa Claus, roaming high school choirs, tree lighting ceremony at 7:15 p.m. The festival will take place south of Peoria and Grand Avenues, including Osuna Park and the Peoria Center for the Performing Arts. Parking and admission are free. 5 p.m. to 9.p.m. Old Town Peoria: Johnny E. Osuna Memorial Park. Crossroads of Peoria Ave. and Grand Ave. peoriaaz.gov

Dec. 11. Santa’s Enchanted Holiday Festival. Enjoy options for photos with Santa, reindeer pony rides, face painting and treats. General admission includes a craft activity and raffle tickets for a chance to win amazing prizes. 11 a.m-3 p.m. Shop our local food trucks and marketplace vendors to find a variety of special gifts. Parking is free. No charge for babies under 12 months. Paseo Verde Park, 7561 West Greenway Road, Peoria. Enchantedholidayfestival.com

PHOENIX

Nov. 16-Jan. 1. World of Illumination. Turn up the holiday spirit with World of Illumination’s Rockin’ Christmas. In this mile long symphony of sight and sound, you’ll see everything from life-sized musical notes to retro Santa spinning it old school. Featuring millions of colorful lights and hundreds of animated displays, the world’s largest animated drive-through light show is a mesmerizing event sure to rock your holidays. $39.99 per vehicle Six Flags Hurricane Harbor, 4243 W Pinnacle Peak Rd, Glendale. Purchase tickets here.

Nov. 19-Dec.24. Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical. The holiday classic soars off the screen in this musical adaptation of the beloved television special. Because of his shiny nose, Rudolph doesn’t feel like he belongs in Christmastown and sets off to find a place that accepts him. Along his journey, he encounters fellow misfits, only to realize that home is where he has belonged the whole time. When a storm threatens to keep Santa’s sleigh from taking flight, what makes Rudolph different turns out to be what helps him save Christmas. Most enjoyed by ages 4 and older. Tickets starts at $13. Check for times. Herberger Theater Center, 222 E Monroe St., Phoenix. childsplayaz.org

Nov. 19-Jan.29. Sock Skating. Slip, slide and glide into fun at this annual event at the Children’s Museum of Phoenix. Kids and adults alike have a blast skating on white, slippery tiles reminiscent of ice but without the cold! 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sock skating is free with paid Museum admission of $16.00 per person. Members and children under the age of 1 are free. 215 N 7th Street, Phoenix. childrensmuseum.org

Nov. 23-Jan. 15. Walk-Thru ZooLights. Experience millions of twinkling lights, dazzling animal sculptures and two Music-in-Motion Light Shows on our main lake. You’ll find adventure EVERYWHERE at the Valley’s favorite holiday tradition, ZooLights! This season promises to be bigger and brighter than ever before, with all new animal lanterns and light displays, an enhanced Santa experience and our brand-new music and light show that will take you around the world! PLUS, guest entry to ZooLights includes admission to Dinosaurs in the Desert, the not-to-be-missed dino-mite experience! Phoenix Zoo, 455 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. 602-286-3800 or phoenixzoo.org

Nov.25-Dec. 24. Photos with Santa. Celebrate the season with a visit with Santa Claus. Whether it’s a visit for a child to share their wish or capture the moment with a traditional photo with the “big guy”, he will be there with a jolly spirit of fun! Hours vary. Find Santa near the Food Court. Christown Specrum Mall, West Bethany Home Road & 19th Avenue, Phoenix.

Nov. 26-Dec. 31. Holidays at the Heard. A Phoenix tradition, Holidays at the Heard is a must-see event for your family, friends and out-of-town guests. Special programming is scheduled weekends starting the Friday after Thanksgiving and running through Friday, December 31. To find out event schedules for this holiday season call 602-252-8840 or visit this heard.org.

Nov.28-Jan. 1. CitySkate is Downtown Phoenix’s most popular, real outdoor ice-skating and a time-honored tradition for so many Valley families. Come skate under the stars. Four 90 minutes sessions from 4 to 11:30 p.m. $20 per person; $13 military, seniors, students and children 8 and younger; Free children 3 and younger. $5 off if you bring your own skates. Tickets and skate rentals are purchased at the event. Skate sizes are first-come first-serve availability. Please arrive early to reserve your spot in line and correct skate size. Patriot’s Park (in the center of CityScape), 11 W. Washington St., Phoenix. cityskatephx.com

Dec. 1-31. Las Noches de la Luminarias. The Garden shines bright during the holiday season! Enter a desert wonderland this holiday season at Desert Botanical Garden with Las Noches de las Luminarias. Enjoy an evening filled with sparkling luminarias and twinkling holiday lights. Musical performances, entertainment and holiday delights line the Garden’s iconic trails for a picture-perfect night. Plus, new this year, the holiday also includes an extra layer of beauty with the bold and lyrical large-scale sculptures of Playing with Stars by Rotraut interweaving gracefully with the sparkles of the luminaria bags throughout the trails and Ottosen Gallery. Also new this holiday season, head over to Webster Auditorium and take part in building an enchanted winter village each night of Luminaria. Bring your creativity and use elements like stones, moss and other enchanted accessories on this community project for kids and the young at heart. Select nights only, please verify event details. Dbg.org

Dec. 3-4. Visits with Santa. Make it a magical day at the Museum! Share your holiday wish with Santa, enjoy snow flurries in the Atrium, and play in 3 floors of imaginative exhibits! Activities are free with paid museum admission of $16.00 per person. 215 N 7th Street, Phoenix. childrensmuseum.org

Dec. 3-4, 10-11, 17-18. Christown Cringle’s Workshop and Mrs. Claus’s Kitchen.These whimsical and charming events will include interactive Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen, Be Merry Elves Storytime, a holiday craft, playful photo backdrops, music and more. The first 75 children to attend each Saturday event will receive a $5 gift card to Harkins Theatres (while supplies last). This event is free and open to the public; no pre-registration is required. During the event, guests are encouraged to donate a canned good or packaged food item that will be collected throughout the season for St. Mary’s Food Bank. Noon-3 p.m at Christown Specrum Mall, West Bethany Home Road & 19th Avenue, Phoenix. christtownspectrum.com

Dec. 4. Trans-Siberian Orchestra: The Ghosts of Christmas Eve. The Tran-Siberian Orchestra hit the road again in 2022 with the return of their beloved classic production, The Ghosts of Christmas Eve! Join them as they celebrate over two decades as the top purveyors of Christmas spectacle! Including Ghosts of Christmas Eve alongside some of their all-time greatest hits – discover what keeps audiences coming back year after year! 3 p.m & 7:30 p.m. Footprint Center, 201 E Jefferson St, Phoenix. 602-379-7800 or purchase tickets here.

Dec. 9-24. The Elves and the Shoemaker. Santa’s elves come to help a poor shoemaker and his wife in this musical treat. Performed with large rod puppets, this is a holiday experience for the whole family to enjoy! 10 a.m. Fridays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday. $12 for adults ($10 for members), $8 for ages 12 and younger ($6 for members). Tickets must be purchased in advance. Great Arizona Puppet Theater, 302 W. Latham St., Phoenix. 602-262-2050 or visit azpuppets.org

Dec. 9-24. The Nutcracker at Ballet Arizona. Ballet Arizona takes the Symphony Hall stage 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. Whether this is your first Nutcracker or your 101^st, this heartwarming tradition never fails to enchant and draw smiles from all! Symphony Hall,75 North Second St., Phoenix. 602-381-1096 or purchase tickets here.

Dec. 17-18. The Arizona Nutcracker. Come enjoy the magic of The Arizona Nutcracker! See the magic as Dolls & Clowns come to life, a Christmas tree grows through the roof, snow inside the theater, watch the Nutcracker defend himself and Clara against the Mouse King and army of mice, see Angels dance on clouds, and the Sugarplum Fairy as she welcomes Clara and her Prince into the Land of Sweets…1 p.m and 7 p.m December 17, 1 p.m December 18. Tickets start at $25. Madison Center for the Arts, 5601 North 16th St., Phoenix. 602-664-7777 or themadison.org

Jan. 9. Sensory Friendly Zoo Lights. During this special evening on January 9 you can expect the same great ZooLights with some modifications to make it more sensory friendly, including smaller crowds , quieter music, reduced flashing lights and more.Phoenix Zoo, 455 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. 602-286-3800 or phoenixzoo.org

PRESCOTT

Nov.25-Dec. 31. Wildlights and Animal Sights. The holiday light display will be open to the public every Friday & Saturday evening from 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm, beginning on November 25th and 26th and running through December 30th and 31st of 2022. The park will be filled with festive holiday decorations, music, and spectacular light displays. We’ll have light concessions available with items such as hot cocoa and cookies. This also makes a great time to visit the Gift Shop for those special holiday gifts! For more information call 928-778-4242 or visit heritageparkzoo.org

Nov. 26. Prescott’s Holiday Light Parade & Bonfire Festival. Kick off the holiday season in Arizona’s Christmas City when 35-40 festively illuminated floats light up the evening with Prescott’s Holiday Light Parade, on Saturday following the Thanksgiving holiday. Historic Downtown Prescott, 120 S. Cortez Street, Prescott.

Nov. 26-Dec. 18. Christmas at Mortimer Farms. Rediscover the magic of Christmas this winter as the Farm transforms into an enchanting holiday wonderland with festive decorations, shows, entertainment, and more. Savor the splendor of the season and discover the place where Christmas cheer lives all season long. Saturday and Sunday until Dec. 18. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Santa visits: 3pm – 5pm – an additional 15.00 per person (limited number of spots).

Nov. 27. Enchanted Holiday Festival. General admission includes an ornament to create and hang on the tree at the Inn (or take home if you prefer), reindeer pony food and a raffle ticket for a chance to win a gift. Extra paid options include photos with Santa, reindeer pony rides, face painting and a gingerbread house decorating workshop. Enjoy yummy treats and holiday shopping with our team of amazing vendors. Come in your PJ’s or dress up in your favorite holiday attire. Just be you! Fun for all ages. Free parking. Spaces are limited so sign up in advance to guarantee your preferred time slot.

Dec. 1-3. Elf the Musical, Jr. Buddy, a young orphan, mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole. The would-be elf is raised, unaware that he is actually a human, until his enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and discover his true identity. Faced with the harsh reality that his father is on the naughty list and that his half-brother doesn’t even believe in Santa, Buddy is determined to win over his new family and help New York remember the true meaning of Christmas. Tickets are $15. The Movement Studio, 6425 E. 2nd Street suite B, Prescott Valley. To purchase tickets call 928-515-2919.

Dec. 3. Annual Christmas Parade. The Prescott Chamber of Commerce and presenting sponsor, Findlay Auto Group proudly present the 40th Annual Christmas Parade in downtown Prescott.  This year’s theme is “A Superhero Christmas”. Kick in our Holiday Season with over 100 entries for the whole family to enjoy! Starts at 1 p.m. At 6 p.m watch the courthouse light up in the Annual Courthouse Lighting Event.

QUEEN CREEK

Awaiting details. Dec. 4.  Santa Saturday. Queen Creek Marketplace welcomes your family to a holiday celebration on Dec. 4 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.! Meet Santa, get a free photo, play fun and festive holiday games with Funergy, and make a new ornament for the tree. 21398 S. Ellsworth Loop Rd., Queen Creek. queencreekmarketplace.com

Nov. 25-27, Dec. 1-4, 8-11, 15-24. Christmas at Schnepf Farms. Experience the wonder of Christmas at Schnepf Farms, a special kind of holiday magic for the entire family. Featuring the Illumination Express train ride, a Christmas carousel, cookie decorating with Mrs. Claus, hayrides to reindeer, pictures with Santa, snow globe mini golf, a beer and wine garden, and the world’s largest inflatable Christmas-themed obstacle course. 5-10 p.m. nightly. Purchase tickets in advance. Admission is $18.95-$22.95, online reservations strongly encourage. Schnepf Farms, 24610 E Rittenhouse Road, Queen Creek. 480-987-3100 or schnepfchristmas.com

SCOTTSDALE

Through Dec. 16. Festive Fridays Holidays Program. Visit the Festive Friday area adjacent to Santa Set and show a receipt of Santa Claus Photo package or proof of $20 donation to St. Jude to participate in the Holiday Craft experience and photo opportunity with the special guest of the week. You’ll see Frozen characters, Mrs. Claus, Buddy the Elf, Olaf, and the Grinch! Every Friday – Palm Court Area. 3pm to 4:30pm. To see more details visit fashionsquare.com.

Nov. 17-Dec. 24. Photos with Santa. The magic of the holiday season comes alive with a visit to Santa’s winter wonderland. Santa will be here starting November 17 and is located at Palm Court. A visit with Santa is always free and photo packages are available for purchase. Reservations recommended. Scottsdale Fashion Center, 7014 E Camelback Rd, Scottsdale.

Nov. 18-Dec. 18. A Christmas Story The Musical.  A stage musical version of the 1983 film A Christmas Story. The musical has music and lyrics written by Pasek and Paul and the book by Joseph Robinette. The musical takes place in the 1940s in Indiana and focuses on a nine-year-old child named Ralphie Parker.  Ralphie wants one thing for Christmas, and one thing only: An Official Red Ryder Range Model Carbine Action BB Gun. There’s only one problem: everyone else is convinced he’ll shoot his eye out! Friday & Saturday at 7:30pm
Saturday & Sunday at 2:00pm. Desert Stages Theatre, 7014 East Camelback Road, Suite 0586, Scottsdale. Tickets can be purchased here.

Nov. 19-Dec. 31. The Immersive Nutcracker: A Winter Miracle. A reimagined rendition of this timeless family holiday tale using majestic projections, enchanting music and magical special effects to immerse in a holiday-themed dreamscape!  $30/person. Lighthouse Artspace Phoenix. 4301 North Scottsdale Rd. Scottsdale. Tickets can be purchased here. 

Nov. 25-Jan 1. Enchant Scottsdale, presented by Hallmark Channel. Stroll through lighted tunnels, discover larger-than-life displays, find your way to our epic 100 foot tall Christmas tree, and look for special surprises along the way. Then lace up your skates and hit the trail on real ice (additional cost). Explore a village of tiny shops with vendors, crafts, and boutiques. Plus holiday treats! Meet Santa, do your holiday shopping, grab a Merry Cocktail, and more! Tickets start at $34 for adults and $20 for children. Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, 7555 N Pima Rd, Scottsdale. enchantchristmas.com

Nov. 26. Santa Social. Kick off the holiday season with the annual Santa Social and a full day of holiday cheer! Enjoy kids entertainment, photos with Santa (cost applies), caricature artists, face painters, puppy adoptions, special Christmas character appearances, and end the day with our annual tree lighting ceremony and a holiday feature film!  2-8 p.m. Free. Scottsdale Quarter-5059 N Scottsdale Rd., The Quad, Scottsdale. 

Nov. 26-Dec. 18. Holiday Weekend Entertainment. Tis’ the season for shopping, carolers, characters, and more! Starting Black Friday, enjoy holiday music from the Dicken’s Carolers and Pete Pancrazzi while you stroll through Santa City in The Quad. And during Black Friday Weekend, be sure to snap a photo with some of your favorite Holiday characters! Check online for the concert schedules. Scottsdale Quarter-5059 N Scottsdale Rd., The Quad, Scottsdale. 

Dec. 2-4. Scottsdale Sparkle Christmas.Wounded Women Warriors presents Scottsdale Sparkle Christmas. Shop their very talented vendors for all your Holiday gift items while the kids enjoy face painting, glitter tattoos, and more. Free Outdoor Event! No Admission or Activity Fees Required! FREE. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Arizona Boardwalk Courtyard, 9500 East Vía de Ventura, Scottsdale.

Dec. 2-29. Holiday Movies at Landmark. Season’s Screenings from Landmark Theaters! Enjoy this series of Holiday favorites at Landmark throughout December, featuring two Holiday films daily each week for only $6! (All films separate admission.) Landmark Movie Theater, 15257 N Scottsdale Rd Suite 230, Scottsdale. 480-746-3929 or visit here.

Dec. 3. Celtic Woman: A Christmas Symphony. Experience the magical sound of Celtic Woman’s angelic harmonies with a full symphony orchestra this holiday season. 8 p.m. Tickets range from $45-$150. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts | Virginia G. Piper Theater, 7380 E 2nd St, Scottsdale. 480-499-8587 or purchase tickets here.

Dec. 5. Paws and Claus. Santa Paws is coming to town! It doesn’t matter if they’ve been naughty or nice, bring your fur babies in for their very own portrait with Santa on December 5th from 5-7 PM. No reservations are required for this special photo session; guests will be served on a first-come, first-serve basis. Scottsdale Quarter-5059 N Scottsdale Rd., The Quad, Scottsdale. scottsdalequarter.com

Dec. 9. Home for the Holidays. Come celebrate the magic of the season at Taliesin West! Featuring decorations and displays, crafts, holiday music, and refreshments! Finish up your holiday shopping at the Frank Lloyd Wright Store where members save 10% all year round. Home for the Holidays is fun for all ages. Tickets are: $25/adults, $15/kids 6-18, kids 5 and under are free. 4-8 p.m. 12621 N Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd, Scottsdale. For a schedule of events and more details call 480-860-2700 or click here.

Dec. 10. Sippin’ Series: Holiday Cocktails. Enjoy a variety of fun cocktails for the holiday season. The Sippin’ Series is an intimate deep dive into the world of cocktails, wines, and spirits. Each event in the series focuses on a central beverage and seeks to further develop our knowledge on the topic through an in-person experience. Light bites are included.  Sippin’ Series is a 21+ event only and is curated and hosted by the team of experts at Republic National Distributing Company. 7 p.m. $50/person. Mezzanine Lounge, 7380 East Second Street, Scottsdale. 480-499-8587 or purchase tickets here.

Dec. 10. Shop with your pet. Get your fur babies ready for a day out at The Quarter! From 12 – 3 p.m. on Saturday, December 10th, you and your pup can shop at all of our pet-friendly retailers as well as enjoy some doggone fun. Get a complimentary holiday photo taken with the meanest & greenest grouch in Santa City! Dress your pups to impress for the Ugly Sweater Contest for a chance to win a great prize. No sweater? No sweat, we’re also giving a prize for the Best Dressed pet. 12-3 p.m. Free. Plus: pet adoptions available! Scottsdale Quarter-5059 N Scottsdale Rd., The Quad, Scottsdale. scottsdalequarter.com

Dec. 10-11. Holidays at the MIM. Ring in the holidays with MIM as we celebrate the merry melodies and seasonal traditions of global wintertime celebrations. Make a festive tambourine, listen to live music, tour the museum, and more! 4725 E. Mayo Blvd. Phoenix. MIM.org

Dec. 11. Scottsdale Philharmonic Holiday Concert. Scottsdale Philharmonic performs classical music concerts to the public and makes classical music available to audiences of all ages. The Scottsdale Philharmonic provides the city of Scottsdale and surrounding communities with a professional symphony orchestra, performing a series of traditional classical music concerts for audiences of all ages. 4 p.m. $15/person.Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts | Virginia G. Piper Theater, 7380 E 2nd St, Scottsdale. 480-499-8587 or purchase tickets here.

Dec. 15. World Ballet Series: Nutcracker. Step into the whimsical, magical world of one of the most beloved fairy tales, coming to Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts this holiday season! A part of the World Ballet Series, The Nutcracker is performed live by a multinational cast of 50 professional ballet dancers, gathered to bring the most beloved holiday tradition to life. A family-friendly experience accompanied by Tchaikovsky’s timeless score, more than 150 hand-sewn costumes, hand-crafted sets, and classic Marius Petipa choreography. This fairy tale will take you on a Christmas night adventure with Clara and the Nutcracker to the Land of Sweets. See the iconic “Waltz of the Flowers” and the “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy” and meet Mother Ginger and the Drosselmeyer. 7 p.m. $35-$175/person. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts | Virginia G. Piper Theater, 7380 E 2nd St, Scottsdale. 480-499-8587 or purchase tickets here.

Dec. 17-18. Family Fun Holiday Fair & Marketplace. Take professional photos with SANTA CLAUS, play in a SNOW BLIZZARD, enjoy live entertainment on center stage, bounce houses and slides, face painting, coloring contests, and much more! Free Outdoor Event – No Admission Required. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Arizona Boardwalk Courtyard, 9500 East Vía de Ventura, Scottsdale.

Nov. 25-Dec 31. Winter Waterland. Festive lighting, music, and décor change with each rotation as you ride through custom-themed exhibits featuring graceful stingrays and sea turtles, playful sea lions, and majestic sharks. Jolly ol’ helmet-diving SeaTREK Santa is making a splash again this holiday season with underwater appearances on select dates from Thanksgiving weekend through New Year’s Eve. Odysea Aquarium: 9500 E Via De Ventura, Suite A-100, Scottsdale. 480-291-8000 or odyseaaquarium.com

Nov. 25-Dec. 31. Christmas in the Rainforest. ‘Tis the season to experience Christmas in the Rainforest with family and friends! Enjoy festive décor throughout the building, highlighted by special lighting and holiday theming in the Butterfly Conservatory. Visit the ‘wreath wall’ where each wreath displayed represents the homeland country of every butterfly species at Butterfly Wonderland. Learn about special traditions practiced in each country that make their holiday season so memorable. 9500 E Via De Ventura, Scottsdale. 480-800-3000 or butterflywonderland.com

Nov. 26-Dec. 31. Scottsdazzle is a holiday extravaganza that brings a variety of festive activities and fun events to residents and visitors alike. Activities and events take place at various locations around Old Town through December 31. Local retailers and restaurants also join in on the festivities, offering guests incentives to dine, drink and shop throughout the season. scottsdazzle.com

Nov. 29-Dec. 30: Holiday Lights at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park. More than 100,000 lights will adorn trees and displays during McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park’s Holiday Lights program. Festivities kick off at 6:00 p.m. with a tree lighting ceremony, entertainment and a visit from a special guest – Santa! Holiday Lights will run from 6:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Excluding Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve. Train and carousel rides will be available for a nominal fee. For more information call or visit the website. Daily except Christmas Eve and Day and New Years Eve. McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, 7301 E. Indian Bend Road, Phoenix. 480-312-2312 or therailroadpark.com

Nov. 18-Jan. 2. Christmas at the Princess. Every winter, the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess resort becomes a twinkling holiday wonderland for both hotel guests and the public. Their outdoor holiday celebration offers ice skating, light shows, s’mores, pictures with Santa Claus, water lantern ceremonies and more. 4-10 p.m. peak days, 5-10 p.m. off-peak days. Check website for details. 7575 E. Princess Drive, Scottsdale. 480-585-4848 or scottsdaleprincess.com

Dec. 23. Candlelight Open Air Holiday Special. Candlelight concerts brings a NEW Holiday inspired concert to Arizona Boardwalk! Experience the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience under the gentle glow of candlelight during the most wonderful time of the year! Ticket’s start at just $20. 6:30-7:30 p.m, 9-10 p.m. Arizona Boardwalk Courtyard, 9500 East Vía de Ventura, Scottsdale. Purchase tickets here.

SEDONA

Nov. 25-Dec. 24. The Magical Christmas Journey. Verde Canyon Railroad’s storybook adventure, The Magical Christmas Journey™, travels Santa’s secret tracks to the North Pole and back every Thurs-Sun. evening Dec. 3rd-12th, and nightly Dec 16-24th. The festively decorated depot is home to the miniature “Bird’s Eye Village”, a live bald eagle and a beautiful princess. Upon the illuminated train’s arrival at the brilliantly decorated North Pole, Santa Claus hops aboard for the return trip to Clarkdale, interacting with every child, presenting each with a small gift.

Dec. 2. Sedona’s Tree Lighting and Santa Visit. 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Enjoy traditional tree-lighting, refreshments, local holiday entertainment and Santa visits with children. This free event takes place at Tlaquepaque North and is presented by Sedona Chamber of Commerce, Tlaquepaque and the City of Sedona. Free Admission

Dec 2-4. Annual Christmas Show: The Great Gatsby. The Emerson Theater Collaborative presents F. Scott Fitzgerald’s 1940s radio broadcast in this spirited adaptation of The Great Gatsby. Characters come to life on stage of the WBFR radio station for a live broadcast, punctuated by 40s-era commercials. A story of triumph and tragedy that reflects the decadence of the Jazz Age and the perils of the American Dream. See website for dates and times.

Dec. 3. Breakfast with Santa. 8-10a.m. Join Sedona Parks & Recreation for the 13th annual Breakfast with Santa. This free event includes pancakes, holiday caroling, Santa’s Stable of reindeer and a visit with St. Nick at the Hub, 525-B Posse Ground Rd. Breakfast will be served until 9:45 a.m. Some activities will be conducted outdoors, please dress accordingly.

Dec. 10. Christmas in the Park. Christmas in the Park is the Museum’s annual gift to the community and visitors. Be greeted by our traditional tumbleweed snowman. Enjoy hot cider and cookies, vintage holiday decorations, a fire in the fireplace and ‘make & take’ a cornhusk doll. There’ll be holiday entertainment. Throughout the Museum there will be old-timers telling stories and local authors signing their books. Check out the sale in the Museum Gift Shop. We hope to see you. Bring your family and friends. 11 a.m-3 p.m.

Dec. 10. The Festival of Lights. A 49 – year-old tradition, Tlaquepaque’s Festival of Lights is its signature winter event. Stop by for an afternoon of holiday music, entertainment, and the lighting of over 6,000 luminarias at the tolling of the 5:00pm chapel bell. Come by at 4:00pm to enjoy Santa’s grand entrance. Talented musicians will be performing throughout the day. The American Cancer Society will sell specially designated luminarias to honor cancer survivors in Patio del Norte. Santa, and free cider awaits, making it the perfect outing for families and friends.

Dec. 17. A Christmas Carol. Award-winning actor Michael Peach will read Charles Dickens’ classic “A Christmas Carol” at the Sedona Heritage Museum. Encounters with the ghosts of Christmases Past, Present and Future teach miserly Ebenezer Scrooge what it means to be human in this holiday favorite. Show is about an hour long and appropriate for all audiences. Admission is donation of food items or $6 for the Sedona Food Bank.

Dec. 18. Chanukah Menorah Lighting. Enjoy the miracle of the Menorah on the first night of Channukah at Tlaquepaque in Patio Del Norte. Enjoy scrumptious latkes, donuts and hot chocolate while listening to festive music. Kids will have the opportunity to meet Judah The Maccabbee – take a photo and even receive some gelt. Hosted by Chabad of Sedona and Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village. 5:30-6:30 p.m.

SURPRISE

Nov. 25-Jan 1. Desert Farm Lights. West Valley’s Largest WALK-THRU Christmas Experience! The experience is a half-of-a-million-dollar grass-roots project with a passion behind the idea that West Valley families deserve incredible Christmas experiences too! There is nothing like the Desert Farm Lights Experience for over 40 miles in any direction. Justice Brothers Ranch, 14629 W. Peoria Ave, Waddell. Tickets can be purchased here.

STANFIELD

Dec. 3-4. Joy to the Herd. Visits with Roxie and Santa? Of course! A unique holiday event that combines a glimpse into a working dairy farm with festive and fun activities, Shamrock Farms transforms its large Welcome Center Barn into a winter wonderland with holiday crafts, face painting and more! Of course, no holiday celebration would be complete without a special visit from Santa and Shamrock Farms’ own jolly spokescow – Roxie! The holiday cheer continues with festive décor added to the cow-spotted tram as visitors take our fun and educational guided Farm Tour where they can get up close and personal with 10,000 cows and learn about how our pure and fresh milk gets from the farm to table! Other tour highlights include a visit to our milking barn that accommodates 1,600 cows (milking 200 at a time) plus a visit to our interactive play zone. Tickets are $15 for adults and children and include all activities. Children under 2 are free. Lunch will be available for an additional cost. Reservations and pre-payment are required. 602-477-2462 or visit here.

TEMPE

Nov. 18-Dec. 24. Santa Photo Experience. Make your appointment now for a photo with Santa! Let your kids tell Santa what they want for Christmas and then do some shopping at the stores! Reservations recommended. Arizona Mills, 5000 S Arizona Mills Cir, Tempe.

Nov. 23. Tree Lighting. The District lights up for the first time this season as Tempe Marketplace hosts the annual Tree Lighting. Get in the spirit of the holiday season with a professional ice-skating performance, followed by the official lighting of our 60-foot holiday tree and the very first magical snowfall of the season. Plus, experience the brand-new Gingerbread Village! Live Entertainment by Funergy on The District Stage with music, games and prizes, LED Drum Line Performance and a holiday show by The Arizona Nutcracker Ballet, first snowfall of the season at 7pm & 8pm, photos with Santa, Mrs. Claus and your favorite Snow Sisters and Snowman & more.

Nov. 23-Dec. 31. Tempe Marketplace will transform into a living snow globe with its Nightly Snowfall every evening at 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. near the District Stage (excluding Christmas Day). Plus, enjoy snowfall every hour on Christmas Eve from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Take advantage of the fun photo ops at Tempe Marketplace, travel through the beautiful life-sized Starry + Bright Star Tunnel, then step into Candy Cane Lane, a delicious holiday dreamland filled with giant gumdrops, larger-than-life lollipops, colossal chocolates, gigantic gingerbread men, and a hot cocoa pond, complete with massive marshmallows. Tempe Marketplace, 2000 E Rio Salado Pkwy, Tempe. Tempemarketplace.com

Nov. 25. Holiday Street Parade + Tree Lighting. Bring your family and friends to an event that kicks off the magic of the season with a street parade, tree lighting ceremony, live entertainment, Santa photos, and so much more! Find out where to park here.

Nov. 16-Jan. 1. World of Illumination is the worlds largest drive-through animated light show. Grab your sled and join World of Illumination on a trek down Candy Rush. Sugar plum fairies. A gigantic gingerbread village. Sweets as far as the eye can see. World of Illumination presents Candy Rush, the world’s largest animated drive-through light show, highlighting larger-than-life Christmas characters and confections. This mile-long journey features millions of colorful lights and enchanting holiday music— a must see treat for the entire family. 6 to 10 p.m. daily. Tickets start at $39 per vehicle. Tempe Diablo Stadium: 2200 W Alameda Dr., Tempe.  worldofillumination.com

Nov. 25-27. Holiday Skating. Enjoy free holiday skating near Dave & Buster’s for children 5 and older. Skates are provided, just bring socks! Friday and Saturday, 12-8 p.m. Sunday, 11 a.m-6 p.m. Tempe Marketplace, 2000 E Rio Salado Pkwy, Tempe.

Dec. 2. Movies on the Field: Elf. Bring a blanket, sit on the grass and enjoy your favorite holiday movie, Elf on the big screen at Movies on the Field on December 2nd. Sip on some hot chocolate—don’t forget the marshmallows—and get in the holiday spirit with this family-friendly movie. ASU Sun Devil Stadium,500 E Veterans Way, Tempe.

Dec. 2-4. Festival of the Arts. Tempe Festival of the Arts has a 50+ year history in Tempe and takes place in early December and late March each year.  It is one of the oldest festivals in the Southwest.   The festival has grown to become a Tempe point of pride and a favorite of our residents and visitors.   Guests enjoy artists from around the country, local music, a Kids Block and many great food options – all located on the streets of historic Mill Avenue.

Dec. 3 & 10. Storytime with Mrs. Claus. Join Mrs. Claus for a jolly good read-a-long this holiday season with timeless tales and magic tricks! Check our list twice to be sure to grab the book beforehand at Barnes & Noble. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Tempe Marketplace, 2000 E Rio Salado Pkwy, Tempe.

Dec. 4. Caring Santa (sensory friendly). Visit Santa in a sensory-friendly environment. Arizona Mills is collecting donations on behalf of Autism Speaks. Exclusively for children with special needs. Reservations are required for this private photo experience. Arizona Mills, 5000 S Arizona Mills Cir, Tempe.

Dec. 10. Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade. Join Tempe for the Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade – the Valley’s most unique holiday event and celebrated tradition. Enjoy holiday shopping, festive eats and treats, a dazzling boat parade featuring boats of all shapes and sizes, and a spectacular fireworks show. 4-9 p.m. This event is free and family-friendly.

Dec. 11. 2nd Sundays Holiday Market. Outdoor market, live music and entertainment, snack vendors, and plenty of fun for the whole family. The outdoor market lines Mill Avenue between 3rd St. and University, and features homemade goods and gifts from Arizona local artisans, crafters, and makers. The event is FREE admission, family-friendly, and dog friendly.

Dec. 19. Menorah Lighting. Downtown Tempe’s First Annual Menorah Lighting at 6th Street Park. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Lighting ceremony begins at 6 p.m.

TUCSON AND SOUTHERN ARIZONA

Now through Dec. 24. Photos with Santa.The magic of the holiday season comes alive with a visit to Santa’s winter wonderland. Santa will be here starting November 17 and is located at Palm Court. A visit with Santa is always free and photo packages are available for purchase. Reservations recommended. Tucson Mall, 4500 N. Oracle Road, Tucson.

Nov. 5-Dec. 2. The Wickhams: Christmas at Pemberley. Don’t miss this sequel to last season’s holiday show, presented by Arizona Theatre Company, directed by Veronika Duerr.  Boisterous sister Lydia Wickham returns front and center for this holiday season joined by her long lost husband and the home’s downstairs residents. As the bustling staff find themselves amid a holiday scandal, complete with misunderstandings and shenanigans. When the festivities spiral into chaos, Lydia finds her voice in this celebration of family and forgiveness. Times vary, please check website. Arizona Theatre Company,330 S Scott Ave, Tucson. 520-662-2823 or purchase tickets here. 

Nov. 20-Jan.8. Tucson Holiday Ice. Pima Pain Center, the City of Tucson, and Rio Nuevo invite you to skate on Tucson’s outdoor ice rink this holiday season. Tickets can be purchased online (skates included), and there are no additional fees. Skates begin at size 8 for children and run as large as size 15 for adult men. Socks are required, and gloves are highly recommended. Find more information on admission and hours online.

Nov. 22-23. Magical Cirque Christmas. The world’s greatest entertainers unite for a spellbinding and incredible holiday production – A MAGICAL CIRQUE CHRISTMAS! Experience the enchantment of Christmas as Magical Hostess Lucy Darling takes you through an evening of dazzling performers and breathtaking cirque artists, accompanied by your favorite holiday music performed live. Get into the spirit of the season with this merry treat that’s perfect for the entire family. Centennial Hall, 1020 E. University Blvd, Tucson. Purchase tickets here.

Nov. 25-Jan. 15. LightsUp! A Festival of Illumination. Tucson Botanical Gardens has been a holiday destination for over 30 years with our famous installation of over 3,000 luminarias. This tradition has evolved and grown, and this year we invite you to join us for a new holiday show unlike any other in Tucson! Designed by nationally known public garden landscape architect Tres Fromme, a carefully curated and artfully sequenced series of illuminated experiences will transform the Gardens into a glittering wonderland of lights. Six distinct but meticulously connected thematic zones with their own unique color palettes lead visitors  through more than a million lights, custom-built oversized installations, and pieces created by local artisans. Be dazzled by a 50′ light tunnel, choreographed cypress trees, and experience the golden world of luminarias like never before! 5:30-9:30pm. Tickets are $30-$40 for non-members. 520-326-9687 or purchase tickets here. 2150 North Alvernon Way, Tucson.

Nov. 25-Dec. 23. Enchanted Snowfall. Snow flurries that amaze, a giant Christmas tree that shines, heart-warming hot chocolate for the kids, favorite holiday flavors for the family, exceptional outfits for all your holiday events, and of course, extraordinary gifts … discover all the holiday wonder at La Encantada. Click here to see times and dates.

Dec. 2-4, 9-11, 16-18, 23-24. Tanque Verde Holiday Market. The Holiday Market is the perfect place to shop for the entire family. Great deals on new, used, and handmade items. You are sure to find something for everyone. You can always bring your family and friends to the Swap Meet for a great day of family fun! 4100 S. Palo Verde Rd Tucson.

Dec. 2-18. Elf Productions at Art Express. Based on the beloved holiday film, this hilarious fish-out-of-water comedy follows Buddy the Elf in his quest to find his true identity. This modern-day holiday classic is sure to make everyone embrace their inner elf. After all, the best way to spread Christmas Cheer is singing loud for all to hear. Park Place Mall, 5870 E Broadway Blvd #214, Tucson. For more information tickets and times visit arts-express.org

Dec. 2-30. ZooLights. Ready, Set, Glow! ZooLights: Holiday Magic, presented by Tucson Electric Power, returns with thousands of enchanting lights, mesmerizing light shows,  and displays and holly jolly fun for all ages. Stop in for a photo-op at the confection-merry Candyland, share Seasons greetings in the oceans zone, and have a Santa-abulous visit with St. Nick who will be hearing wishes each evening through December 23. Experience falling snow in the Arctic Zone, listen to festive music, or savor a hot cup of cocoa from the Zoo Café or carts as you travel through a colorful wild wonderland in this Tucson holiday tradition. Tickets range from $8-$12. 520-791-3204 or purchase tickets here. 3400 Zoo Court, Tucson.

Dec. 3. Storytime with Papa Noel. Join Papa Noel and Fairy Caitlin for storytime in the Enchanted Realm. Papa Noel will read a holiday classic followed by a holiday sing-a-long. Included with museum admission. 11 a.m-12 p.m. The Mini Time Machine Museum, 4455 E. Camp Lowell Dr., Tucson. 

Dec. 3. Weihnachtsmarkt; An Outdoor German Winter Market. Open to the public and FREE of charge, Weihnachtsmart is a unique Tucson experience! This all-day event is a family market with something for everyone. Come for the authentic German food truck and live music, stay for the crafts and silent auction. Presented by the Parent Council for Desert Sky Community School, this annual German market benefits Waldorf educator training for the school’s teachers. A great opportunity to shop local and buy your holiday gifts from the various vendors. Desert Sky Community School, 350 N Arcadia Ave, Tucson.

Dec. 3. Marana Holiday Festival & Christmas Tree Lighting. Free photos with Santa, letters to Santa, performances, holiday market, 30 food trucks, free rides on the holiday train, bouncy castles/inflatables, and more. 3-9 p.m. 11555 W. Civic Center Dr, Marana. 

Dec. 3. Oro Valley Festival of the Arts and Holiday Tree Lighting. A two-day Festival that adds vibrancy to Oro Valley by creating opportunities for people of all ages, cultures and backgrounds to celebrate the arts. The mission of the Festival of the Arts is to connect art and the community by presenting an annual arts festival and by promoting the arts in the Southern Arizona community. Guests will enjoy cookie decorating, free photos with Santa and the Golder Ranch Fire Truck (3:30pm-5:30pm), arts activitie, and the Oro Valley Holiday Tree will come to life with Santa at 6pm, live with Holiday caroling.

Dec. 3-4. Gingerbread Workshop. Feeling Creative? Come celebrate the holiday season at Children’s Museum Tucson! Decorate one-of-a-kind gingerbread house. $50 ticket includes:up to four guests, a preconstructed house, tons of icing and candy for decorating your masterpiece, photo area. There are two sessions 1 1/2hr each at 10:30am or 1:30pm. Children’s Museum Tucson,200 South 6th Ave., Tucson.

Dec. 3, 9-10, 16-17. Holiday Nights. An illuminated desert wonderland! Holiday Nights is a timeless tradition, for children, students, couples, whole families, and everyone in between! Overflowing with holiday cheer are the wonders that await you at Holiday Nights at Tohono Chul! Walk down illuminated pathways, enjoy live entertainment, and be dazzled by twinkling lights while musicians and artists perform throughout the gardens. You’re sure to enjoy the many distinct experiences located throughout the grounds while you sip hot chocolate and enjoy festive treats! Not finished with your holiday shopping? Peruse the Museum Shops where you are sure to find a unique gift for that special someone or purchase the gift of a membership to Tohono Chul. Join us for a night bursting with excitement and take part in the magic! 5:30-8:30 p.m. Tickets prices are $20 for general public, kids 3-12 are $6. Tickets must be redeemed for a certain night. 7366 Paseo del Norte, Tucson. 520-742-6455 or purchase tickets here.

Dec. 6-7. Patronato’s Christmas at San Xavier. Patronato San Xavier presents Southern Arizona’s most enduring winter tradition, a very special concert of sacred and holiday Christmas music.  Celebrate the joy of the holiday season immersed in the spectacular Spanish Colonial-Era beauty of Mission San Xavier del Bac. 1950 W. San Xavier Rd., Tucson. 520-407-6130 or click here for tickets and concert times. 

Dec. 9. An Irish Christmas. A celebration of family and community that showcases some of the great Irish holiday traditions and features award-winning dancers from Riverdance, Lord of the Dance, and Celtic Wings. All the holiday carols you know and love plus the high energy display of Irish Dancing at its best. 8:00pm. Rialto Theater, 318 E Congress St, Tucson. 520-740-1000 or purchase tickets here.

Dec. 10-11. Handel’s Messiah and Other Holiday Favorites. The beloved holiday tradition returns with our very own TSO chorus. Seasonal classics including “Winter” from The Four Seasons and Strauss’ Thunder and Lightning polka set the festive mood for Handel’s glorious Messiah culminating in the joyous, uplifting “Hallelujah” chorus. Tucson Symphony Orchestra, 2175 N. Sixth Ave., Tucson. 520-882-8585 or visit here.

Dec. 10-11. A Southwest Nutcracker. Premiered in 1994, TRB’s flagship production A Southwest Nutcracker transports Tchiakovsky’s traditional Nutcracker in its entirety to 1880s Tucson, giving the characters and events a Sonoran Desert twist that has become a beloved Tucson holiday tradition. Presented by the Tucson Regional Ballet2100 North Wilmot, Suite 302., Tucson. To purchase tickets, click here.

Dec. 9-11, 16-23. Marana Christmas Express. Meet Santa, enjoy holiday treats, ride the Christmas Train, play area, farm animals, jumping pillows, holiday lights, and more. 5-9 p.m. Admission is $20-$25.

Dec. 10-16. Winterhaven Festival of Lights. Tour these amazing holiday lights on a hayride wagon, a bus trolley, a pedal-powered group bike! You can also see the lights on foot. The rides are popular ways to see the lights, so reservations are recommended. Make your reservation by directly contacting the ride company. FREE, but food donations are requested. Find out more here.

Dec. 16-17. The Nutcracker. Based on the beloved tale by E.T.A. Hoffman, set to Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s sweeping score, The Nutcracker has become synonymous with winter holiday season. Ballet Rincon’s production features renowned guest artists, dancers from the Ballet Rincon Ensemble Program, and Academy students. Presented in two acts, The Nutcracker tells the magical story of a young girl in which young Clara Silberhaus’s godfather Herr Drosselmeyer gifts her a Nutcracker for Christmas. The Nutcracker comes alive and, after defeating the evil Mouse King in battle, whisks Clara away to his magical kingdom of sweets, where she meets the Sugar Plum fairy and entourage. Tickets are $16-$24. Call 520-574-2804 for ticket information or purchase tickets here. Vail Theater of the Arts, 10701 E Mary Ann Cleveland Way, Tucson.

Dec. 17. 17th Annual Holiday Express. Photos with Santa, write a letter to Santa, new exhibits, reading of The Polar Express, holiday music, arts and crafts show, and more. 10 a.m-3 p.m. Southern Arizona Transportation Museum, 414 N Toole Ave., Tucson. For rates and more details call 520-623-2223 or visit tucsonhistoricdepot.org.

Dec. 17. Family Funday at the Presidio Museum. The holiday season is important to many cultures around the world. Learn the different ways that people celebrate this time of year through a variety of hands-on activities including tin-smithing ornaments. 10 a.m-1 p.m. Included with admission. 196 N Court Ave, Tucson. 520-622-0594 or visit tucsonpresidio.com

Dec. 17. Downtown Parade of Lights. Join the fun and celebrate the holidays with the 28th annual Parade of Lights. Lighted floats, holiday music, performers, and more. 6:30 p.m. Free, all ages welcome. Armory Park, 222 S 5th Ave., Tucson.

Dec. 17-18. Happy Holidays Feliz Navidad. Join Maestro Gomez, the Tucson Girls Chorus, the Tucson Arizona Boys Chorus and other special guest artists to celebrate the holidays with a multicultural, uniquely Tucson flavor. Tucson Symphony Orchestra, 2175 N. Sixth Ave., Tucson. 520-882-8585 or visit here.

Dec. 18. Chanukah at Downtown Tucson. Annual Chanukah lighting ceremony of Tucson’s tallest Menorah at El Presidio Park, with light show performance by Cirque Roots, kosher pizza truck, music, holiday treats and crafts. Free admission.

Dec. 22-24. Ballet Tucson’s The Nutcracker. The magical holiday tale of The Nutcracker comes to life with Tucson’s professional ballet company. For the first time ever, the TSO will perform the score live for their award-winning production, forging a new and vibrant artistic partnership. The Linda Ronstadt Music Hall, 260 S Church Ave., Tucson. 520-791-4101 or purchase tickets here.

WHITE MOUNTAINS

Nov. 21-Dec. 2. 3rd Annual Christmas Bazaar. Gifts, decorations, homemade cookies. All proceeds benefit the mission of the White Mountain Community Center. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. 1594 Johnson Dr, Lakeside. 928-368-5869 or visit whitemountaincommunitycenter.com

Nov. 23. Discovery Nest. Create a quilled gift tag or ornament with either a Thanksgiving/fall theme or a Christmas/winter theme! 9:00 am – 3:00 pm. No appointment will be required. Families with children from the ages of 5 to 12 may drop by the Silver Creek Campus Library anytime between 9:00 – 3:00 to create quilled gift tags and ornaments. Quilling is an art form that involves rolling, shaping, and gluing strips of paper to create decorative designs.

Nov. 25. Black Friday. Find one of a kind gifts created by local artists. Music, cookies, and a free gift for the first 20 guests. Arts Alliance of the White Mountains. 251 Penrod Road, Show Low. 928-532-2296 or visit artalliancewhitemountains.com

Nov. 25-Jan.1. Magic on the Mountain. Come see the largest synchronized light show on the mountain from 6-9 p.m each night (except Christmas Eve). Tune your radio to 96.5 and enjoy the show from your car! 180 N 9th Street, Show Low.

Nov. 26. Winterfest. Celebrate the holidays with a bonfire, photos with Santa, chili and hotdogs, cocoa with marshmallows, and more. 5-7p.m. Tall Timbers Park, 2798 AZ-260, Overgaard.

Nov. 26. Pinedale Bridge Lighting and Santa’s Visit. Bridge lighting will be about 6pm followed with Santa’s visit at the Pinedale Arizona Community Center. Hot chocolate and cider will be served with cookies. 1264 Pinedale Rd, Pinedale. 928-739-1717 or visit pinedaleheritage.org. 

Dec. 1. Photos with Santa. Compass Medical Center will have a Santa Photo Booth during our monthly kids day on Thursday Dec. 1st from 3-6pm (just before the town lighting)! You do not have to be a kid’s day participant to join us & the Santa Session is free of charge! Compass Medical Center, 1300 Main St, Snowflake. Call 928-536-5525 or visit compassmedicalAZ.com

Dec. 1. Snowflake Town Lighting. Snowflake kicks off the holiday season with a traditional Town Lighting Ceremony, arrival of Santa, entertainment and free cocoa to be enjoyed by all.

Dec. 2-3. Candy Cane Lane. Shop nearly 50 vendors, enjoy hot cocoa, popcorn, coffee, hotdogs, and more. Come visit Santa as he arrives on the Timber Mesa firetruck Saturday at noon! 10 a.m.-4 p.m., free admission and candy canes for kids. Elks Lodge, 805 E Whipple St, Show Low.

Dec. 2-3. Winter Wonderland Christmas Tree Lot and Boutique. Christmas Tree lot, sleigh ‘hay’ rides, hot cocoa, vendors, food trucks, live entertainment, meet Santa. 9 a.m.-4 p.m on Saturday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m Sunday. 80 S 3rd West, Snowflake.

Dec. 3. Photos with Santa Claus. Write letters to Santa, hot cocoa, chili, music, cookies, s’mores by the fire. 3-6pm, 7-8p.m. The Morning Rose Flower Shop. 340 N 9th St, Show Low.

Dec. 3. Santa at the Library. Photos with Santa, goodie bags, decorating cookies, donate non-perishable goods for the community food bank. 928-535-5749. Rim Community Library, 3404 Mustang Ave, Heber.

Dec. 3. Santa at the Museum. Once a school, now houses several local history museum rooms, art gallery, visitors center, meeting room and a gift shop – all supporting the local community! Also the starting point for Casa Malpais Archaeological Site tours. Come and spend time with us at the Springerville Heritage Center! No admission fee! 418 E Main St. Springerville.

Dec. 3. Show Low Shines Christmas Parade. 6:00 P.M. Join us along the Deuce of Clubs from Central to White Mountain Road to enjoy the floats with their beautiful light displays depicting this year’s theme, “Snow Much Fun.” Don’t miss Santa! For those who wish to participate, applications are available at Show Low Family Aquatic Center 1100 W. Deuce of Clubs or online at www.showlowaz.gov. For more information, please call (928)532-4141.

Dec. 11. The Living Christ: A Christmas Community Event. Musical performances, Christmas tree displays, nativity display, and refreshments. Centennial Stake Center, 9th Street, S 2nd W St, Snowflake.

Dec. 14. Sirens and Sleigh Bells. A great program which puts smiles on the faces of children 0-12 years old and parents in Show Low and the Blue Ridge School Districts who can’t afford to provide Christmas gifts. 7:00a.m until complete. The deadline for the applications is Nov. 23. Questions regarding this program may be directed to: Mary Willey with the Pinetop-Lakeside Police Department at (928) 368-8803 ext. 226 or Kristine Sleighter with the Show Low Police Department at (928) 537-5091 ext. 256. Event occurs at the Walmart Super Center in Show Low. 5401 S White Mountain Rd, Show Low.

WILLIAMS

Through Dec. 30. The Polar Express. Experience storybook magic when you ride the Polar Express in Williams this holiday season. The Grand Canyon Railway transforms the train into the Polar Express, based on the Chris Van Allsburg classic. Families will also snack on cookies and sip on hot chocolate and sing carols. 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. train departures (3:30 p.m. on select dates). Packages available for meals and hotel stay. Grand Canyon Railway, 233 N. Grand Canyon Blvd., Williams. 800-222-6966. thetrain.com

STATEWIDE

Christmas Tree Permit. A memorable experience, cutting a holiday tree is a special tradition to share with family and friends while helping to maintain a healthy forest. For many families, venturing into the forest to cut a Christmas tree for the holidays is a treasured tradition carried on for generations, while others may just be discovering the thrill of searching for the perfect holiday centerpiece. For every tree that is found, cut and carried home as a holiday fixture, you’re also contributing to the overall forest health. Christmas tree permits are a unique opportunity for citizens to help thin densely populated stands of small-diameter trees – the perfect size for a Christmas tree.

Through Dec. 12. “Share the Warmth” Coat Drive. Through a partnership with Valley of the Sun United Way and United Way of Tucson and Southern Arizona, all 12 Larry H. Miller Dealerships in Metro Phoenix and Tucson are kicking off “Share the Warmth,” a holiday coat drive to help K-6 students in Title 1 schools near the Metro Phoenix and Tucson dealership locations. Larry H. Miller dealerships are invited to donate new and gently used winter coats, lightweight jackets, and hoodies so Arizona children in need can stay warm this winter. Find a dealership here.

Through Dec. 23: 2022 Christmas Angel program. The Salvation Army has partnered with Arizona’s Family to provide Christmas gifts to families in need. You can help. No time to shop? Click here.

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