Archives for November 2023

As the holiday season approaches, Arizona transforms into a magical landscape, adorned with festive lights, joyful celebrations, and heartwarming traditions. Let’s explore the spirit of the season, where families gather, friends rejoice, and the magic of the holidays unfolds in every corner of Arizona.

1. ANTHEM

Links: Outlets at Anthem, Santa Paw Mondays

Experience festive joy at Outlets at Anthem from Nov 16 – Dec 24! Home to Arizona’s tallest fresh-cut Christmas tree for the 21st year, the outlet invites you to Santa’s cottage by the Food Court. Santa is available daily from 11 am to 7 pm (break from 2:30-3:30 pm), with Christmas Eve hours from 10 am to 4 pm (break from 1-1:45 pm). Don’t miss Santa Paw Mondays for pet photos – reservations are recommended.

 

 

2. APACHE JUNCTION

Link: Holiday Program and Light Parade.

On December 2nd, the City of Apache Junction hosts an award-winning, FREE downtown Holiday Program and Light Parade at Flatiron Park from 3 pm to 6:30 pm. Bring the whole family for a delightful evening featuring Santa, vendor booths, arts and crafts, games, music, inflatables, food, and a spectacular Tree Lighting. Conclude the festivities with the Annual Holiday Light Parade – an event not to be missed at 100 N Apache Trail, Apache Junction.

 

3. CAREFREE/CRAVECREEK

Links: Kiwanis Christmas For The Kids ; Carefree Lights Up! Tree Lighting Ceremony ; Chanukah in Carefree  ; Western Holidays at Stagecoach 

In downtown Carefree on Dec 2, from 10 am to 4 pm, the Kiwanis Christmas For The Kids event offers a delightful experience with puppies, games, face painting, carriage rides, Santa Claus, and a chance for kids to win free bikes. Attendees can also enjoy complimentary hot dogs, popcorn, cookies, and hot chocolate. Following this, the Carefree Lights Up! Tree Lighting Ceremony from 4 pm to 6 pm illuminates the town in the Carefree Gardens, featuring carolers, live music, and a festive ambiance. Chanukah in Carefree, occurring daily from Dec 7-14 at 5:30 pm, presents an outdoor event with presentations, menorah lighting, and charitable support for the Cave Creek Unified Education Foundation. Finally, Western Holidays at Stagecoach (Dec 8-10) offers a family-friendly holiday celebration with a Yuletide Market, children’s activities, live music, a tractor parade, and a weather-dependent balloon glow. Mr. & Mrs. Santa Claus will be available for pictures and storytelling, and adults can enjoy a beer and wine garden during the festivities.

 

4. CHANDLER

Links: Photos with Santa ; Prancer’s Pajama Party ; Ballet Etudes “The Nutcracker”  ; Polar PJ Party  ; 8th Day Chanukah Concert for Families  ; Santa Saturday.   ;  Rawhide Snowy Christmas

Experience the enchantment of the season at Chandler Fashion Center’s Photos with Santa, available from Nov. 10 to Dec. 24 on the lower level, Macy’s Court. Prancer’s Pajama Party, a free community event in Downtown Chandler on Nov. 25, promises family fun with children’s performances, reindeer games, and a refreshed Sugarland display. Ballet Etudes presents “The Nutcracker” at Chandler Center for the Arts from Nov. 25-27 & Dec. 2-4, offering a visual feast of colorful costumes and Tchaikovsky’s original score. Join the Polar PJ Party every Tuesday from Nov. 29 to Dec. 20 outside Wildflower and Dillard’s, where you can wear your favorite holiday PJ’s for a festive FREE party. Don’t miss the 8th Day Chanukah Concert for Families on Dec. 22 at 1825 E. Elliot Rd., Tempe, presented by Chabad of the East Valley. 

 

5. FLAGSTAFF

Links: A Christmas Carol: A Twisted Musical ; Winter Wonderland and Tree Lighting  ;  Breakfast with Santa ; Winter Movies Series  ; The North Pole Experience     

Experience the enchantment of the holiday season in Flagstaff with a lineup of festive events! The Theatrikos Theatre Company presents “A Christmas Carol: A Twisted Musical,” a delightful adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic, from Nov 25 to Dec 18. Downtown Flagstaff transforms into a Winter Wonderland on Dec 2, hosting a free family-friendly event with hot cocoa, crafts, and a magical Tree Lighting at 6:15 pm, followed by a chance to capture a selfie with Santa. The Flagstaff Downtown Business Alliance and The Weatherford Hotel invite you to indulge in “Breakfast with Santa” on Dec 2, 9, and 16, featuring a hot breakfast buffet, holiday crafts, and festive tunes. Enjoy the Winter Movies Series at Orpheum Theater on Dec 2, 9, and 16, showcasing beloved holiday classics like Home Alone and Elf. On Dec 9, head to the Flagstaff Visitor Center for the Snowflake Festival, a free event offering pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus, games, crafts, and goodie bags. Finally, don’t miss “The North Pole Experience” through Dec 24, an immersive journey into Santa’s workshop, complete with Elf University and family photos with St. Nick. 

 

 6. FOUNTAIN HILLS

Links: Holiday Mart at the River of Time Museum  ; Stroll in the Glow  ; “Elf the Musical Jr.”   

Discover the magic of the season from Nov 18 to Dec 9 at the Holiday Mart held at the L. Alan Cruikshank River of Time Museum & Exploration Center in Fountain Hills. With a diverse range of eclectic, rare, and vintage merchandise, this annual event makes holiday shopping an enchanting experience at 12901 N La Montana Dr. On Dec 2, immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of the Stroll in the Glow, featuring the traditional lighting of the Avenue and a special appearance by Santa Claus on a big red fire truck around 6:00 PM. Finally, from Dec 8 to 17, Fountain Hills Theater presents “Elf the Musical Jr.,” a heartwarming tale of Buddy’s journey to New York City to find his birth father and spread the true meaning of Christmas at 11445 N Saguaro Blvd. Don’t miss these joyful celebrations in Fountain Hills!

 

7. GILBERT

Links: Photos with Santa ; A Christmas Carol

Experience the enchantment in Gilbert from Nov 16 to Dec 24 with Photos with Santa at San Tan Village’s winter wonderland on Desert Breeze Drive. Santa awaits, and visits are free with photo packages available for purchase; reservations recommended. Then, from Nov 30 to Dec 23, witness the heartwarming rendition of Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” at Hale Centre Theatre, featuring traditional carols, stunning costumes, and memorable characters at 50 W. Page Ave. Don’t miss these festive Gilbert attractions! 

 

8. GLENDALE

Links: Santa’s Wonderland ; Photos with Santa  ;  World of Illumination ;  30th Anniversary of Glendale Glitters  ; Glendale Glitters ; Christmas Trees on the Farm  ; Hometown Christmas Parade

Embark on a magical holiday journey in Glendale with a plethora of festive attractions. Dive into the yuletide spirit at Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s from Nov 4 to Dec 24, nestled at 9380 W Glendale Ave. Capture timeless moments with Photos with Santa at Arrowhead Mall from Nov 9 to Dec 24, located at 7700 W. Arrowhead Towne Center, with free visits and optional photo packages; reservations are recommended. For an extraordinary adventure, experience the World of Illumination, the world’s largest drive-through animated light show, showcasing a mile-long journey with exotic animals, reindeer flights, and a festive finale at Santa’s Bazaar at Desert Diamond Casino, 9431 W. Northern Ave., nightly from Nov 18 to Jan 1. Celebrate the 30th Anniversary of Glendale Glitters from Nov 24 to Jan 7 with an extravagant light display, festive activities, and the lighting ceremony on Nov 24 at 5:45 pm in front of the Glendale Civic Center. Explore the charm of Glendale Glitters every evening from Nov 24 to Jan 7, featuring Murphy Park lights, amphitheater performances, the Hometown Christmas Parade on Dec 9, and Christmas Trees on the Farm at Tolmachoff Farms from Nov 25 to Dec 23. Join the Hometown Christmas Parade on Dec 9 at 11 a.m., fostering community spirit and supporting Hope for Hunger with a festive canned food drive. It’s a season of joy and celebration in Glendale! 

 

 9. MESA

Links: Santa’s Wonderland ;  AZ Lights in the Night  ; Mesa’s Merry Main Street  ; Lights at the Farm ; Self-Guided Reindeer Roll & Stroll 

Discover the enchantment of the holiday season in Mesa with a range of festive events. From Nov 4 to Dec 24, delve into the magic of Christmas at Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s, located at 133 N Dobson Rd, where reservations are recommended. Experience the AZ Lights in the Night drive-thru holiday light show at the Thompson Event Center from Nov 22 to Dec 31, featuring over 1 million synchronized lights to holiday music, and enjoy a VIP train ride experience through pre-purchased tickets online. Join the spectacular Merry Main Street celebration in downtown Mesa from Nov 24 to Jan 6, offering a four-story tall Christmas Tree, crafters, Mesa’s Polar Express, food trucks, Santa’s sELFie stations, and more at City Plaza, 20 E. Main St. Lights at the Farm, a walk-thru synchronized light show at Vertuccio Farms, dazzles from Dec 1 to Dec 30 with 2 million lights and displays. Don’t miss the Self-Guided Reindeer Roll & Stroll on Dec 9, a festive scavenger hunt in Downtown Mesa with a chance to win prizes, free treats, and bicycle helmets. Mesa is aglow with holiday magic!

 

10. PAYSON/PINE

Links: Annual Swiss Village Christmas Lighting ; Santa’s Workshop at The Rusty Pine Cone.  ; Electric Light Parade

Experience the holiday magic in Payson and Pine with festive events. On Nov 24, attend the Annual Swiss Village Christmas Lighting for free crafts, music, pictures with Mr. & Mrs. Claus, and more, offering a fun-filled day for the whole family. Santa’s Workshop at The Rusty Pine Cone, from Nov 24 to Dec 18, invites you to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, enjoy free hot cocoa, and explore a special shopping area for kids every Saturday and Sunday. Don’t miss the Electric Light Parade on Dec 3, transforming Historic Main Street into a magical wonderland with a Winter Wonderland from 1-5pm, Christmas Tree lighting at 5:30pm, and the electric light parade at 6 p.m., celebrating this year’s theme: The ’73 Jubilee. It’s a joyous season in Payson and Pine! 

 

11. PEORIA

Links: White Christmas  ; A Christmas Carol   ; Old Town Holiday Festival

Peoria offers a magical holiday season with a lineup of festive events. From Nov 17 to Dec 30, catch the enchanting “White Christmas” at the Arizona Broadway Theatre, featuring the romantic escapades of Bob and Phil in a magical Vermont inn. For a classic Christmas tale, TheaterWorks presents “A Christmas Carol” from Dec 8-24, bringing Dickens’ beloved characters to life and reminding audiences of the true meaning of the season. Don’t miss the Old Town Holiday Festival on Dec 9, where the City of Peoria transforms Old Town into a winter wonderland with live entertainment, carriage rides, food trucks, Santa Claus, and a tree lighting ceremony, creating a joyful atmosphere for the whole community to enjoy.

 

12. PHOENIX

Links: Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical  ; Elf the Musical at the Phoenix Theatre Company  ; Walk-Thru ZooLights ; Photos with Santa ; Las Noches de la Luminarias  ; Christown Cringle’s Workshop and Mrs. Claus’s Kitchen ;  Sensory Friendly Zoo Lights  ; The Night Before Christmas  ; Holidays at the Heard  ; The Nutcracker at Ballet Arizona  ;  The Arizona Nutcracker

Phoenix is set aglow with festive events this holiday season. Catch “Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical” at Herberger Theater Center from Nov 18 to Dec 24, a heartwarming tale of acceptance and Christmas spirit. The Phoenix Theatre Company brings “Elf the Musical” to life, a sugary treat for the family, from Nov 22 to Dec 30. Don’t miss the dazzling “Walk-Thru ZooLights” at Phoenix Zoo from Nov 22 to Jan 14, featuring millions of twinkling lights and captivating animal sculptures. Capture the magic of the season with “Photos with Santa” at Christown Spectrum Mall from Nov 24 to Dec 25. Experience the enchanting “Las Noches de la Luminarias” at Desert Botanical Garden from Nov 24 to Dec 30, where luminarias and holiday lights illuminate the desert wonderland. Join the festive fun at “Christown Cringle’s Workshop and Mrs. Claus’s Kitchen” on Dec 2-3, 9-10, 16-17, offering interactive activities and holiday delights. Embrace inclusivity at “Sensory Friendly Zoo Lights” on Dec 4, ensuring a sensory-friendly experience at Phoenix Zoo. Enjoy a puppetry spectacle with “The Night Before Christmas” at Great Arizona Puppet Theater from Dec 6-24. Immerse yourself in cultural festivities at “Holidays at the Heard” from Dec 8-9, a Phoenix tradition at Heard Museum. Delight in the timeless classic “The Nutcracker” presented by Ballet Arizona at Symphony Hall from Dec 8-24. Experience the magic of “The Arizona Nutcracker” on Dec 16-17 at Madison Center for the Arts, featuring enchanting performances that bring the holiday season to life. 

 

13. PRESCOTT

Links: Wildlights and Animal Sights ; Prescott’s Holiday Light Parade & Bonfire Festival  ; Christmas at Mortimer Farms  ; Annual Christmas Parade ; The Nutcracker

Prescott is aglow with holiday festivities. Enjoy the enchanting “Wildlights and Animal Sights” at Heritage Park Zoo every Friday and Saturday evening from Nov 24 to Dec 30, featuring dazzling light displays, festive decorations, and delightful concessions. Witness the radiance of “Prescott’s Holiday Light Parade & Bonfire Festival” on Nov 25 in Historic Downtown Prescott, with 35-40 illuminated floats marking the beginning of the holiday season. Immerse yourself in the magic of “Christmas at Mortimer Farms” from Nov 25 to Dec 24, where the farm transforms into a winter wonderland with shows, entertainment, and special events like Breakfasts with Santa. Join the merriment at the “Annual Christmas Parade” on Dec 2, presented by Prescott Chamber of Commerce, featuring over 100 entries with the theme “A Superhero Christmas.” Conclude the festive season with Ballet Victoria’s captivating performance of “The Nutcracker” on Dec 16 at Jim & Linda Lee Performing Arts Center, where a girl’s curiosity sets an enchanted world in motion on a magical Christmas Eve.

 

14. QUEEN CREEK

Links: Christmas at Schnepf Farms ; Holiday Festival and Parade

Experience holiday magic at Schnepf Farms from Nov 24 to Dec 24, featuring the Illumination Express train ride, a Christmas carousel, cookie decorating, hayrides to reindeer, photos with Santa, snow globe mini golf, a beer and wine garden, and the world’s largest inflatable Christmas-themed obstacle course. Open nightly from 5-10 p.m., tickets are $18.95-$22.95, with online reservations strongly encouraged. On Dec 2, enjoy the Holiday Festival and Parade in Queen Creek from 2 PM to 7 PM, organized by the Kiwanis Club and the Queen Creek Chamber of Commerce. The family-friendly event includes arts & crafts, food & drink vendors, live entertainment, photos with Santa, and more. Don’t miss the parade at 3:30 PM and the tree lighting at 6:15 PM.

 

15. SCOTTSDALE

Links: Photos with Santa ; Christmas at the Princess  ; Holiday Lights at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park ; Enchant Scottsdale, presented by Hallmark Channel; Santa Social  ; Sing Along & Tree Lighting Ceremony  ; Scottsdazzle Stroll ; Gold Palette ArtWalk.; Sugar Plum Tea Party ; Ultimate Family Play Date & Concert. ; Dazzling Magic Shows ; Santa Paw Photos ; Holidays at the MIM ; Family Fun Holiday Fair & Marketplace.  ;   Candlelight Open Air Holiday Special

Scottsdale offers a festive array of holiday events! Visit Santa’s winter wonderland at Scottsdale Fashion Center from Nov 16 to Dec 24, with free visits and photo packages available. Experience the enchanting Christmas at the Princess from Nov 17 to Jan 6 at Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, featuring ice skating, light shows, pictures with Santa, and more. Join the Holiday Lights at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park from Nov 24 to Jan 7 for a dazzling display of over 100,000 lights and festive activities. Enchant Scottsdale, presented by Hallmark Channel, runs from Nov 24 to Dec 31 at Salt River Fields, offering lighted tunnels, a 100-foot Christmas tree, ice skating, and a village of shops. Explore the full Scottsdazzle extravaganza with events like Santa Social, a Sing Along & Tree Lighting Ceremony, the Scottsdazzle Stroll, Gold Palette ArtWalk, Sugar Plum Tea Party, and more through Dec 31. Don’t miss the Candlelight Open Air Holiday Special on Dec 15, 21, and 22 at Arizona Boardwalk Courtyard. Enjoy the holidays in style! 

16. SEDONA

Links: The Magical Christmas Journey ; Sedona’s Tree Lighting and Santa Visit  ; Breakfast with Santa   ; Chanukah Menorah Lighting ; Christmas in the Park  ;  The Festival of Lights

Experience the enchanting holiday spirit in Sedona! Embark on The Magical Christmas Journey™ with Verde Canyon Railroad from Nov 24 to Dec 24, featuring Santa’s North Pole adventure. Join Sedona’s Tree Lighting and Santa Visit on Dec 1 at Tlaquepaque North for traditional festivities and Santa encounters. Delight in the 14th annual Breakfast with Santa on Dec 2, hosted by Sedona Parks & Recreation, offering pancakes, caroling, and reindeer fun at the Hub. Experience the Chanukah Menorah Lighting on Dec 7 at Tlaquepaque, with latkes, donuts, music, and a meet-and-greet with Judah The Maccabee. Christmas in the Park on Dec 9 at the Museum brings vintage decorations, storytelling, and festive treats. Don’t miss Tlaquepaque’s Festival of Lights on Dec 9, featuring holiday music, over 6,000 luminarias, and Santa’s presence for a perfect family outing. 

 

17. SURPRISE

Links: Desert Farm Lights  ; Artisan Treasures 2023 Christmas Market   ;   Christmas in Killarney

Experience the West Valley’s largest walk-thru Christmas spectacle at Desert Farm Lights from Nov 17 to Dec 31, a unique grassroots project at Justice Brothers Ranch, 14629 W. Peoria Ave, Waddell. For holiday shopping, visit Artisan Treasures 2023 Christmas Market at Mark Coronado Park on Nov 25, featuring 150+ vendors, handmade items, a beer and wine garden, and music for $5 entry from 10 am to 4 pm. Dive into the festive spirit with Christmas in Killarney, a captivating blend of Irish dance and Christmas harmonies at the Vista Center for the Arts at 7 pm on Nov 25, with general seating starting at $45.

 

18. STANFIELD

Link: Joy to the Herd

Dec 2-3: “Joy to the Herd” at Shamrock Farms—a festive dairy farm experience. Enjoy holiday crafts, face painting, and a farm tour to meet 10,000 cows. Say hi to Santa and Roxie, the jolly spokescow. Tickets are $15 for all activities; lunch available for extra. Reservations required at 602-477-2462 or website. 

 

19. TEMPE

Links:  World of Illumination ;   Tree Painting Workshop ; Santa Photo Experience  ;Clay Hand Impression Ornament  ; Holiday Street Parade + Tree Lighting  ; Tempe Marketplace  ; Festival of the Arts.  ; Menorah Lighting  ; Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade  ; Tempe Holiday Market ;Movies on the Field: The Polar Express

Experience the magic in Tempe from Nov 15 to Dec 31 with World of Illumination, the world’s largest drive-through animated light show at Tempe Diablo Stadium. For festive creativity, join the Tree Painting Workshop at Tempe Marketplace on Nov 17, offering a free-paint workshop with staff guidance for $12 admission. Capture moments with Santa from Nov 22 to Dec 24 at Arizona Mills by appointment. On Nov 24, the Holiday Street Parade + Tree Lighting event from 4pm-9pm combines a street parade, tree lighting ceremony, live entertainment, and Santa photos. Enjoy nightly snowfall at Tempe Marketplace, themed areas, and photo ops from Nov 24 to Dec 30. The Festival of the Arts on Mill Avenue offers a 50+ year tradition with artists, music, and diverse food options from Dec 1-3. Illuminate the season at the Menorah Lighting in Downtown Tempe on Dec 7 at 6th Street Park. Witness Tempe’s unique Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade with a dazzling fireworks show on Dec 9 from 4-9 p.m. Find holiday treasures at the Tempe Holiday Market on Mill Avenue on Dec 10, and wrap up the season with Movies on the Field: The Polar Express at ASU Sun Devil Stadium on Dec 16.

 

20. TUCSON & SOUTHERN ARIZONA

Links: Scrooge ; Photos with Santa. ;Tucson Holiday Ice  ;LightsUp! A Festival of Illumination.   ; Tanque Verde Holiday Market ; Holiday Nights. ; Patronato’s Christmas at San Xavier ; Chanukah at Downtown Tucson ; Marana Christmas Express. ; Holiday Magic With Cirque De La Symphonie ; Winterhaven Festival of Lights. ;  An Irish Christmas.;  The Nutcracker. ; 17th Annual Holiday Express. ; Downtown Parade of Lights.  ;SnOV: An Oro Valley Holiday Event ;Ballet Tucson’s The Nutcracker

Experience the holiday magic in Tucson and Southern Arizona from Nov 7 to Dec 2 with “Scrooge,” a Christmas musical at Arizona Theatre Company. Enjoy free Santa visits and photos from Nov 13 to Dec 24 at Tucson Mall. Skate into the holiday season at Tucson Holiday Ice from Nov 20 to Jan 8, an outdoor ice rink presented by Pima Pain Center, the City of Tucson, and Rio Nuevo. Witness the enchanting “LightsUp! A Festival of Illumination” at Tucson Botanical Gardens from Nov 24 to Jan 7, featuring over a million lights and unique thematic zones. Shop at the Tanque Verde Holiday Market on Dec 1-3, 8-10, 15-17, 22-24, or stroll through the illuminated wonderland of “Holiday Nights” at Tohono Chul on Dec 1-2, 8-9, 15-16. Experience the joy of Christmas music at Patronato’s Christmas at San Xavier on Dec 6-7. Celebrate Chanukah at Downtown Tucson on Dec 7 with a lighting ceremony and festive activities. Enjoy the Marana Christmas Express on Dec 8-10, 15-17, 22-23, offering Santa, holiday treats, and more. Immerse yourself in the “Holiday Magic With Cirque De La Symphonie” on Dec 9-10 with a dazzling blend of circus arts and symphonic classics. Tour the Winterhaven Festival of Lights on hayrides, buses, or foot from Dec 9-25, a festive display with free admission. Experience “An Irish Christmas” on Dec 10 at the Rialto Theater, celebrating Irish traditions with dance and carols. Enjoy the timeless classic “The Nutcracker” at Vail Theater of the Arts on Dec 15-16, presented by Ballet Rincon. Join the 17th Annual Holiday Express on Dec 16 at the Southern Arizona Transportation Museum, featuring Santa photos, exhibits, and holiday activities. Light up the night at the Downtown Parade of Lights on Dec 16, with illuminated floats and festive performances. Celebrate SnOV: An Oro Valley Holiday Event on Dec 21, featuring games, crafts, real snow, and Santa. Conclude the holiday season with Ballet Tucson’s The Nutcracker at the Linda Ronstadt Music Hall on Dec 21-23, featuring a live performance by the Tucson Symphony Orchestra.

 

21. WHITE MOUNTAINS

Links:  Winterfest. ; Snowflake Town Lighting.   ; Santa At The Shoppes ; Show Low Shines Christmas Parade.  ;Pinedale Bridge Lighting and Santa’s Visit.

Experience the festive spirit in the White Mountains with a series of holiday events. Join Winterfest at Tall Timbers Park on Nov 25 from 5-7 p.m., featuring a bonfire, Santa photos, and treats. On Dec 1, witness Snowflake’s Town Lighting Ceremony, welcoming Santa and offering free cocoa and entertainment. Santa At The Shoppes on Dec 1-2 (10 am – 4 pm) invites you to explore local businesses with Santa’s presence at noon on Saturday at Show Low Elks Lodge. On Dec 2, catch the Show Low Shines Christmas Parade at 6:00 p.m., displaying illuminated floats along Deuce of Clubs with the theme “Snow Much Fun.” Lastly, embrace the holiday spirit on Dec 9 with the Pinedale Bridge Lighting at 6 pm, followed by Santa’s visit at Pinedale Arizona Community Center, complete with hot chocolate, cider, and cookies.

 

22. WILLIAMS

Link: The Polar Express.

In Williams, from Nov 9 to Dec 30, immerse yourself in storybook magic aboard The Polar Express with Grand Canyon Railway. Experience the journey with 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. train departures (3:30 p.m. on select dates), complete with cookies, hot chocolate, carol singing, and optional packages for meals and hotel stays. Contact 800-222-6966 or visit thetrain.com.

 

23. STATEWIDE

Links: Christmas Tree Permit.  ; 2023 Christmas Angel program

Indulge in the joy of the season with the Christmas Tree Permit program, running through Dec 23. Cutting a holiday tree is a cherished tradition that contributes to forest health by thinning densely populated stands of small-diameter trees. This unique opportunity allows families to find, cut, and carry home the perfect Christmas centerpiece while maintaining a healthy forest. Additionally, until Dec 23, participate in The Salvation Army’s 2023 Christmas Angel program, in collaboration with Arizona’s Family, to provide Christmas gifts for families in need. Join the spirit of giving and make a difference.

 

Arizona’s holiday season is a dazzling tapestry of festive events, spreading joy and merriment throughout the state. These diverse communities come together to create a magical atmosphere for families and friends. Wishing everyone a season filled with laughter, love, and the magic that makes Arizona’s holidays truly unforgettable. 

Source: Raising Arizona Kids

As the festive season approaches, Queen Creek is gearing up for a series of captivating events that promise to infuse the air with holiday cheer. From art shows to family markets and parades, the town is set to come alive with creativity, community spirit, and festive merriment. 

 

1) Art Show at Queen Creek Olive Mill

Date: November 18th, 2023

Event Link: Art Show at QC Olive Mill

Kicking off the holiday festivities is a collaborative art show between the Artists of the Superstitions and the Queen Creek Olive Mill. Attendees can explore an array of artistic expressions, including ceramics, drawings, glass, jewelry, and more. For those feeling particularly inspired, there are three Sip & Paint classes during the show, providing a unique opportunity to unleash creativity. The event takes place on Saturday, November 18th, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, and admission is free.

 

2) Sip-N-Paint at Queen Creek Olive Mill

Date: November 18th, 2023

Event Link: Sip-N-Paint at QC Olive Mill

For those seeking a hands-on creative experience, the Sip-N-Paint event at the Queen Creek Olive Mill is a perfect fit. With three different start times throughout the day, participants can enjoy a guided painting session, complete with all necessary supplies. Each ticket includes a complimentary glass of wine, beer, or a non-alcoholic beverage. Spaces are limited, so securing tickets in advance is advisable. The event takes place on November 18th, 2023, with ticket prices at $34 per person.

 

3) November Sangria Social at Queen Creek Olive Mill

Date: November 19th, 2023

Event Link: November Sangria Social 

Extend the weekend festivities with the November Sangria Social at the Queen Creek Olive Mill on November 19th, from 11 am to 5 pm. This free-admission event invites attendees to relax in Di Oliva and savor four seasonal sangria flavors, providing the perfect opportunity to connect with friends and family.

 

4) Queen Creek Family Market at Schnepf Farms

Event Link: QC Family Market

For those who love to shop local, the Queen Creek Family Market at Schnepf Farms is a must-visit. Taking place on select Saturdays from 9 am to 2 pm, this market boasts over 180 vendors, including food booths/trucks and even a Love Connection Dog Rescue. The market dates span from November through April, offering a diverse and vibrant shopping experience.

 

5) 3rd Annual Holiday Sing Along Spectacular at Combs Performing Arts

Date: December 1, 2023

Event Link: Holiday Sing Along Spectacular

Immerse yourself in the joyous sounds of the season at the 3rd Annual Holiday Sing Along Spectacular hosted by the Combs High School Fine Arts Department. With performances from various arts groups and a special visit from Santa Claus, this event on December 1, 2023, from 4:30 pm to 6:00 pm, promises an evening of festive entertainment.

 

6) Queen Creek Holiday Festival & Parade 2023

Date: December 2, 2023

Event Link: QC Holiday Festival & Parade

Culminating the pre-Christmas celebrations is the 41st annual Queen Creek Holiday Festival & Parade. Benefiting the Kiwanis Club of Queen Creek and the Queen Creek Chamber of Commerce, the festival features a parade, arts and crafts, food and drink vendors, live entertainment, activities, photos with Santa, and a grand tree lighting ceremony. Taking place on December 2, 2023, from 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm, this family-friendly event is set to draw over 10,000 guests.

Don’t miss out on the magic Queen Creek has to offer this holiday season. Mark your calendars and partake in these festive events that promise joy, creativity, and community spirit.

 

Source: Queen Creek Chamber of Commerce