The holiday season is almost upon us. During this period, Arizona transforms into a festive wonderland, offering a range of events that celebrate the spirit of Christmas. From dazzling light displays to bustling holiday markets, Arizona brims with activities for families and friends. Through the transition from 2024 into 2025, you can look forward to an exciting lineup of top Christmas events in Arizona.Â
Whether you're seeking for a magical evening under the stars or a cozy gathering, we have curated a list of some of the best Christmas things to do during the festive season. We have divided these into three categories: holiday lights; activities; and concerts, arts and performances.
Holiday Lights:Â
Tianyu Lights Festival Phoenix (October 25 2024 – January 5 2025)
This spectacular event invites you to wander through breathtaking luminous art installations. This event has four captivating themes: Illuminated Forest, Fairy Tale Wonderland, Panda-land, and Ocean World. This year’s iteration will be held in Camelback Ranch Glendale.
Cruise ZooLights Phoenix (November 27 2024 – January 12 2025)
The event features millions of lights, hundreds of displays, a Wildlife Lanterns Safari, and a floating tree with a light show. You can spend a great time sightseeing alone or with your friends and family. The event will run from 5:30-10:30 p.m. daily.
Snowland Snow Globe Holiday Light Experience (November 25 2024 – January 6 2025)
Experience winter magic at Great Wolf Lodge's Snowland! Enjoy dynamic lights, storytelling, and festive activities. This festive display and breathtaking lighting experience are truly unforgettable and not to be missed. The event will be held in Scottsdale and Salt River in the Arizona region.
 
Glendale Glitters (November 29 2024 – January 1 2025)
Glendale becomes a holiday spectacle with over 1.5 million lights, featuring live entertainment, holiday shopping, and delicious food for a magical individual or family experience. This lighting exhibition will happen around Murphy Park in downtown Glendale.
 
Activities:
Skate Westgate Glendale (November 1 2024 – January 20 2025)
Enjoy the festive atmosphere at Skate Westgate, where a beautiful outdoor ice rink invites families and friends to glide and twirl. Surrounded by twinkling lights and holiday decorations, this event also features live entertainment and seasonal treats, making it a perfect winter outing. This outing will take place in Fountain Park at Westgate Entertainment District, Glendale.
 
Pioneer Winter Wonderland Phoenix (November 1 2024 – January 5 2025)
Step into a charming holiday experience at Pioneer Winter Wonderland, where visitors can stroll through a beautifully decorated park filled with festive lights and displays. Enjoy themed activities, live entertainment, and holiday shopping, all while embracing the spirit of the season.
 
Polar Express (November 8 2024 – December 30 2024)
Embark on a magical journey with the Polar Express, where families can relive the beloved holiday classic aboard a train ride to the North Pole. Enjoy hot cocoa, holiday treats, and a visit from Santa, creating unforgettable memories for children and adults alike. The departing times for the Polar Express are 2:00 pm, 4:30 pm, 7:00 pm.
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Jingle at JW Desert Ridge (November 22 2024 – January 5 2025)
Celebrate the holiday season at Jingle at JW Desert Ridge, featuring festive activities for the whole family. Enjoy holiday lights, themed events, and special dining experiences that capture the joy and warmth of the holidays. There is an ice skating package on offer as well.
 
Christmas at the Princess (November 22 2024 – January 4 2025)
Experience the magic of the holidays at Christmas at the Princess, where the iconic resort is transformed into a winter wonderland. Enjoy dazzling light displays, ice skating, and visits with Santa, making it a perfect destination for holiday cheer. The event is on throughout the week from 4pm till 11pm.
Glistening Gardens at Butterfly Wonderland (November 23 2024 – January 5 2025)
Wander through the Glistening Gardens at Butterfly Wonderland, where enchanting light displays create a magical atmosphere. This event features beautiful gardens decorated with holiday lights, offering a serene escape for families to enjoy the beauty of nature during the festive season. The event runs from 11am to 2pm.
Colorful Christmas (November 23 2024 – January 5 2025)
Celebrate the season with Crayola Experience Colorful Christmas in Chandler, an event that showcases vibrant light displays and festive decorations. Families can enjoy interactive exhibits, holiday crafts, and seasonal entertainment, making it a joyful experience for all ages.Â
Winter Waterland (November 29 2024 – January 4 2025)
Dive into the fun at Winter Waterland, where water-themed activities and holiday festivities come together. Enjoy water slides, games, and special events that bring a unique twist to the winter season, perfect for families looking for adventure. The event will run from 6pm to 10pm.
 
SeaTREK Santa Underwater Appearances (November 29 2024 – January 4 2025)
Meet Santa like never before during the SeaTREK Santa Underwater Appearances! Watch in awe as Santa swims with marine life, creating a whimsical experience for children and families while promoting ocean conservation.
 
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Concerts, Arts and Performances:
21st Annual Arizona Fine Art EXPO (January 10 2025 – March 23 2025)
The 21st Annual Arizona Fine Art EXPO will exhibit a wide range of artistic expressions. This gathering will provide an exquisite platform for all art lovers. This 10-week long adventure will take viewers and artists through a spectrum of art experiences. The EXPO will be open daily 10am - 6pm, 7 days a week.
Miracle on 34th Street (November 20 2024 – December 28 2024)
Running from November 20 to December 28, 2024, "Miracle on 34th Street" brings the beloved holiday classic to life, celebrating the spirit of Christmas and the importance of believing in the magic of the season. Its runtime is 1 hour 40 minutes with one 15 minute intermission.
Die Hard: A Christmas Story (November 22 2024 – December 29 2024)
From November 22 to December 29, 2024, "Die Hard: A Christmas Story" offers a fresh and entertaining take on holiday narratives, blending action and festive themes into a unique theatrical experience.
 
Jim Brickman: A Very Merry Christmas (December 29 2024 – December 31 2024)
Jim Brickman will spread holiday joy with "A Very Merry Christmas," taking place from December 29 to December 31, 2024, featuring his signature blend of music and storytelling that resonates with audiences of all ages.
Ballet Arizona (December 06-24 2024 and February 13-16 2025)
Ballet Arizona will enchant audiences with performances from December 6 to 24, 2024, and again from February 13 to 16, 2025, showcasing the beauty and artistry of ballet during the holiday season and beyond.
Concluding Remarks
Arizona offers countless Christmas events that cater to all ages and interests, making it the perfect destination for holiday celebrations. Whether you're captivated by the enchanting light displays, eager to participate in festive activities, or excited to enjoy live performances, there's something for everyone to cherish. As we transition from 2024 into 2025, Arizona is the place to be, whether you want to enjoy your Christmas or your New Year.