Valley Holiday Destinations You've Got to See This Year
Think holiday lights, gingerbread houses, and gifts wrapped under the tree. Getting in the spirit yet? Well, remarkably, the holiday season is already upon us. And between Phoenix’s amazing winter weather and a wide array of events, there will be no lack of fun things to do to keep things merry and jolly.
So, what are some fun things that you can do with your family to make some lasting memories and, hopefully, to make this the best holiday season yet? Check out some of our picks for amazing Valley holiday destinations you’ve got to see.
Christmas at the Princess
If you’re looking for some fun events for the whole family, the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess has a calendar filled with fun activities. This year will mark the 12th annual Christmas at the Princess. The event started on November 16th and is scheduled to run until January 2nd, 2022. Filled with beautiful holiday lights, private igloo and fire pit rentals, an ice skating rink, nativity garden, character meet-and-greet, trains, and of course, pictures with Santa, there’s something there for every member of your family.
Zoolights at the Phoenix Zoo
Zoolights at the Phoenix Zoo has been a Valley staple for 30 years. This time every year, the zoo magically transforms into a gorgeous display with millions of lights, animal light sculptures, and music-in-motion light shows. The zoo offers two options: the traditional walk-through of the property, where patrons can follow a set walking path lined with magical lights, or a new cruise option. If attendees go the cruise route, they’ll be able to enjoy the lights from the comfort of their own car, and are even able to order treats like kettle corn and hot cocoa.
Las Noches de Las Luminarias at the Desert Botanical Garden
This 44-year old tradition includes thousands of luminarias sprawled across the gardens, and ready for guests to enjoy. Las Noches de Las Luminarias is a Valley tradition, interweaving a love of desert plants with the sparkling holiday season. With a great musical lineup, and a stunning desert backdrop (including the Chihuly in the Desert exhibit), and a photo booth, event nights will be full of memories and holiday spirit.
Ballet Arizona’s The Nutcracker
The Nutcracker is iconically Christmas, and there are few that perform it better than Ballet Arizona. The yearly tradition typically performs at Symphony Hall, and is directed by ballet veteran Ib Andersen. With 150 performers, dancing mice, over 100,000 Swarovski crystals, and music by Tchaikovsky, The Nutcracker will quickly become a beloved tradition year after year.
CitySkate at CityScape
Ok, so Arizona isn’t typically heralded as the land of frozen ice. And while we do get freezing temperatures here, a working outdoor ice rink may not be what most people would expect from the likes of downtown Phoenix. But, CitySkate at CityScape is just that, with a 7,000 foot ice skating rink that uses the same technology as NHL rinks to keep the ice frozen (even if it’s 60° outside). The rink also features a 36-foot Christmas tree, music, and light shows.
We know, there’s a lot of fun options to take advantage of this holiday season, all in a short amount of time. But the good news? All of the events we mentioned are accessible on a wide range of days and typically, go into early January. So, what are you waiting for? Go out there and make some new holiday traditions!
