Saturday, October 5, 2013

Christmas Celebrations Around Arizona

Christmas will be here soon, so I thought I'd provide a listing of some of the holiday celebrations taking place around Arizona this year.  Arizona is made up of seven regions - The Valley of the Sun, including Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, Glendale, and Cave Creek; Grand Canyon Country, including Kingman and Flagstaff; Central Territory, including Cottonwood, Prescott, Prescott Valley, and Sedona; Indian Country, including Holbrook and Winslow; High Country, including Show Low; Old West Country, including Tombstone, Tuscon, Sierra Vista, and Willcox; and West Coast, including Bullhead City/Laughlin, Lake Havasu City, and Yuma.  

I've categorized the forty events I've included according to region.  The events are separated by the reindeer so that you can easily move on to the next if any given event does not interest you.

Of course, there are many more events and celebrations that take place around the state, and it would be next to impossible to list them all here.  Check any given city's website, Chamber of Commerce, or Visitors Bureau for information on additional upcoming events.  Happy Holidays!

THE VALLEY OF THE SUN

1) Las Noches de las Luminarias - Phoenix

The Desert Botanical Gardens is celebrating its 75th anniversary and is once again bringing "Las Noches de las Luminarias" and "Chihuly in the Garden" to the public.  From the Desert Botanical website: 

"Each night of Luminaria, the Garden will come to life with the soft glow from more than 8,000 hand lit Luminaria bags, thousands of white twinkle lights and Chihuly’s vibrant works of art. As you walk the paths with a warm cup of cider, the sounds of hand bells ringing and Dickens Carolers singing remind you of what the season is all about. Make plans with family and friends to attend this year’s very special Las Noches de las Luminarias."

Dates:  November 29th and 30th; December 1st through the 4th, 9th through the 23rd, and 26th through the 31st. 

Visit the Desert Botanical Gardens website for more information. 

Desert Botanical Garden Noche de las Luminarias 


2) Zoo Lights - Phoenix

I go to Zoo Lights most every year.  At the time of this posting, the zoo didn't have any information on their website regarding this year's celebration, but last year it ran from November 22nd through January 6th from 6:00 - 10:00 p.m.  They will post information on their website when it is available.  

Phoenix Zoo



3) Electric Light Parade - Phoenix

The theme of this year's Electric Light Parade is "Wild West Holiday Roundup" and will take place on Saturday, December 7th, at 7:00 p.m.  For more information, see the City of Phoenix Official Website. 

City of Phoenix - Electric Light Parade 


4) Glendale Glitters

Glendale Glitters is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year.  This is also a yearly tradition for me.  From the City of Glendale website: 

"The stunning display of 1.5 million lights will illuminate 16 blocks of Historic Downtown Glendale, making it the largest free holiday light display in Arizona, and it all kicks off Nov. 29 and 30 from 5-10 p.m. each evening."

"Visitors of all ages will delight in holiday entertainment, delectable food, hand-crafted holiday gifts, a children’s winter wonderland and petting zoo, horse-drawn carriage rides, shopping and, of course, visits with Jolly Ol’ St. Nick. The always-entertaining stage show will feature a tribute to special moments and guests from the past 20 years, as it counts down to the lighting ceremony on Friday evening, Nov. 29, beginning at 5:30 p.m."

You can get more information about Glendale Glitters at the City of Glendale's website.

City of Glendale - Glendale Glitters 

During the month of December and as part of Glendale Glitters, you can also attend "Glendale's Spirit of Giving Weekend (December 6th - 7th), Glendale's Winter Wonderland Weekend" (December 13th - 14th), and Glendale's Jingle Bells Rockin' Nights (December 20th - 21st).

It all ends with a block party that takes place on January 11, 2014, complete with a number of hot air balloons in the streets. 

You can see some photos that I took at last year's block party here,


5) Annual Indian Market - Pueblo Grande Museum - Phoenix

The 37th Annual Indian Market will take place on December 14th and 15th.  For more information, you can visit the Pueblo Grande Museum Auxiliary website. 

Pueblo Grande Museum Indian Market


6) Performances for The Nutcracker with the Phoenix Symphony at Symphony Hall are scheduled for December 6th - 24th.  For more information, you can visit the Ballet Arizona website.



7) Holiday Harmony - Scottsdale

This event will take place on December 7th, from the hours of 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.  There will be a tree lighting at 6:30 p.m.

From the Experience Scottsdale website: 

"Holiday Harmony Snow and Glow will take place on Saturday, December 7th in Old Town Scottsdale (Main and Brown) from 3pm to 8pm with the Tree Lighting happening at 6:30pm.The event offers arts & crafts, real snow, Santa, entertainment and this year since we are right on Main and Brown, we have the opportunity to engage with the downtown merchants!"

For more information, you can visit the Experience Scottsdale website.


 

8) McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park Holiday Lights - Scottsdale

From the McCormick-Stillman Railroad website: 

"All Aboard Arizona’s most unique holiday event!  Take a train ride through many festive holiday lights and displays turning the Railroad Park into a winter wonderland.  Opening night festivities will include a tree lighting ceremony, entertainment and a visit from Santa.  Santa will be at the park through December 23.  Train ride is $3.00 and carousel ride is $2.00 each with children under three riding free with a paying adult." 

December 13, 2013 – January 4, 2014 (excluding December 24th, 25th, and 31st), 6:30p.m. – 9:00p.m. 

For more information, you can visit the McCormick-Stillman website. 



9) 61st Annual Desert Foothills Christmas Pageant at Spur Cross Conservation Area - Cave Creek

The Spur Cross Conservation Area is one of my favorite places and I've hiked out there many times.  This year's event will take place on December 7th and 8th at 7:30 p.m.  From the Carefree Cave Creek Chamber of Commerce website: 

"The Desert Foothills Christmas Pageant was started by the local 4-H Club in Cave Creek in 1952, as a re-enactment of the Christmas story showcasing the 4-H Club members’ animals. The tradition continues on December 7 and 8, 7:30 p.m. at Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area in Cave Creek.   Area residents perform in the choir and in pantomime. There is a live, occasionally stubborn, donkey for Mary, and the Three Kings travel on horseback. A majestic-voiced narrator presides over the Christmas story with beautiful musical accompaniment provided by the Pageant choir. Locals enact the roles of Mary, Joseph, infant Jesus, angel, townspeople, shepherds, and Kings."

For more information, you can visit the Chamber of Commerce's website. 

Carefree Cave Creek Chamber of Commerce  


10) Christmas Lights - Arizona Temple Visitors Center - Mesa

At the time I'm posting this, there is no information on this event on the Temple's website, but here is an online article from 2012.  I'm sure it will be back as it's an annual event.  For more information, here is the article from About.com Phoenix. 

About.com Phoenix


GRAND CANYON COUNTRY

11) Very Merry Parade of Lights - Kingman

According to the City of Kingman website, this parade takes place the first Saturday of December in Historic Downtown Kingman down Beale Street.  From the City of Kingman webstite: 

"The Very Merry Parade of Lights is held on the first Saturday of December in Historic Downtown Kingman. Marching bands, jolly elves, classic cars and floats with colorful displays take off from Locomotive Park and parade down Beale Street to the delight of thousands of spectators."

The following is a link to information about last year's parade.  It will likely be updated for this year. 

City of Kingman Event Details 


12) The North Pole Experience and Little America's 19th Annual Christmas Lighting - Flagstaff

This is Little America Flagstaff's second season partnering with the North Pole Experience.  This event kicks off on November 23rd and runs through the holiday season.  I've never been to this, but it sounds interesting.  You can read much more about this event on the North Pole Experience's website.

North Pole Experience 


13) Riordan Mansion State Historic Park - Flagstaff

It's my understanding that the massive log cabin that is the Riordan Mansion is decorated throughout the month of December and tours are available.  At the time of this posting, I did not see any information on it for this year, but you can check the Arizona State Park's website for updates. 

Arizona State Park - Riordan Mansion


14)  The Polar Express - Williams

From "The Train" website:

"Here is a very special chance for you and the entire family to experience the magic of The Polar Express™, the classic children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg.

Every winter the Grand Canyon Railway’s Polar Express comes to life on a journey from the nighttime wilderness of Williams, Arizona, to the enchanted beauty of “the North Pole”—where Santa Claus and his reindeer are waiting with a keepsake present for every good boy and girl. You’ll be smiling from ear to ear, as you watch children’s faces light up when the train arrives, and enjoy hot chocolate and cookies while listening to this timeless story.

Make this a family holiday tradition, and call today to make your reservations (because space is limited to those who truly believe in the spirit of Christmas). The ride lasts a little over an hour, with the train leaving each night at 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., as well as select days that feature a 3:30 p.m. matinee departure. Book online for 2013 now, or call 1-888-848-3511."

For more information, you can visit "The Train" website. 

The Train Special Events 


CENTRAL TERRITORY

15) Annual Christmas Parade - Cottonwood

This year the city of Cottonwood will be celebrating the 59th year of their annual Christmas parade.  This year's theme is "Patriotic Christmas" and will take place on Saturday, December 7th, 2013.  For more information, you can visit the Cottonwood Chamber of Commerce website. 

Cottonwood Chamber of Commerce 


16) 2013 Prescott Christmas Parade - Prescott

This year's parade will take place on Saturday, December 7th at 1:00 p.m.  The parade will be followed by the annual lighting of the Courthouse Square Christmas trees.  For more information, you can visit the City of Prescott website. 


17) Frontier Christmas Open House - Sharlot Hall Museum - Prescott

This event takes place Saturday, Dec. 7th from 6 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. immediately following the Courthouse Lighting.  You can find more information by visiting the Sharlot Hall Museum website.

Sharlot Hall Museum Events 


18) Gingerbread Village - Prescott

You can see the World's Largest Gingerbread Village in the lobby of the Prescott Resort and Conference Center.  It appears the write-up on the Resort's website is from last year, but appears to be an annual event.  For more information, you can visit the Prescott Resort and Conference Center's website. 

Prescott Resort and Conference Center


19) Holiday Festival of Lights - Prescott Valley

This event will take place on December 6th from 5:00 - 7:30 p.m. The Liberty Chamber singers will perform, Mayor Harvey Skoog will speak, and their will be story time for children.  The Civic Center lights will be turned on around 5:50 and the Night Light Parade will begin, among other activities.

You can visit the Town's website for more information. 



20) Various Events - Sedona

There are a number of events taking place in Sedona this year, including the Festival of Trees, Holiday Central Sedona, Holiday Tree Lighting and Santa Visit, Breakfast With Santa and Jingle Bell Run, and Festival of Lights.  You can find more information on all of these events by visiting the Visit Sedona website.

Visit Sedona


INDIAN COUNTRY

21) Parade of Lights - Holbrook

The Parade of Lights in Holbrook will take place on Saturday, December 14th.  See the Holbrook Chamber of Commerce for more information. 

Holbrook Chamber of Commerce


22) Santa Train - Winslow

This event will take place on Saturday, December 7th at 5:30.  From the Winslow Chamber of Commerce website:

"Come watch Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive in Winslow at the 1st Street Pathway on a highly decorated BNFS train engine! Kids sit on Santa\'s lap and meet Mrs. Claus and go home with a free toy."

Winslow Chamber of Commerce Calendar of Events  


HIGH COUNTRY

23) Christmas Light Parade - Show Low

The light parade will take place on Saturday, December 7th at 6:30.  For more information, you can read the article about it in the White Mountain Independent. 

White Mountain Independent Article


OLD WEST COUNTRY

24) Lighting of the Luminarias - Tombstone

This event takes place once a year in December from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. at the Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park.  They do not give a specific date, but there is contact information on the Arizona State Park's website if you would like more information. 

Arizona State Parks 


25) Winterhaven Festival of Lights - Tuscon

This year's Festival of Lights will take place beginning on December 14th and ending on December 28th.  This is the 63rd year for the festival.  Much more information can be found on the Winterhaven Festival of Lights website.  

Winterhaven Festival of Lights

26) Annual Christmas Parade - Sierra Vista

The theme of the 55th Annual Christmas Light Parade is "Cowboy Christmas" and will take place in Sierra Vista on Saturday, December 7th at 5:30 p.m.  For more information, you can visit the Sierra Vista Chamber of Commerce website. 

Sierra Vista Chamber of Commerce 
 

27) Christmas in Tombstone - Tombstone

This will take place on December 13th at 6:00 p.m. and December 14th at 9:00 p.m.  From the Tombstone Chamber of Commerce website: 

"The Tombstone Courthouse State Park Museum, the City of Tombstone and the Tombstone Chamber of Commerce invite you to come and spend a delightful holiday weekend in Tombstone.
The Annual Tombstone Courthouse State Park Museum Open House and Luminaries, Christmas tree lighting, Light Parade, and Fireworks are on schedule for the 'Winter Weekend in Tombstone' celebration."  

You can get more information by visiting the Tombstone Chamber of Commerce website. 
Tombstone Chamber of Commerce 

 

28) Christmas Apple Festival - Willcox

This year, the Christmas Apple Festival will take place on December 6th and 7th.  From the Willcox Chamber of Commerce's website: 

"A country crafts fair featuring handcrafted arts and crafts and quality reproductions. Entertainment, door prizes and lots of fun. Held at the Willcox Community Center, 312 W Stewart St. from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday."

For more information, you can visit the Willcox Chamber of Commerce website.

Willcox Chamber of Commerce 


29) Christmas Lighted Parade - Willcox

This event will take place on December 7th.  From the Willcox Chamber of Commerce's website: 

"Kick off the Christmas season with a lighted parade in downtown Willcox. Free hot dogs for the kids, free hot chocolate for all. The parade begins at 6:00 p.m. at the Willcox Community Center, 312 W Stewart St." 

For more information, you can visit the Willcox Chamber of Commerce website. 

Willcox Chamber of Commerce


30) La Fiesta de Tumacacori - Tumacacori National Historical Park

This event will take place on Saturday, December 7th from 10:00 until 5:00 and Sunday, December 8th from 10:00 until 4:00. 

From the Visit Tuscon website: 

"Celebrate the culture of the Upper Santa Cruz River Valley at Tumacacori National Historic Park, the oldest mission site in Arizona.  The fiesta features around fifty food and craft booths, live entertainment on stage, and children's activities each day. On Sunday, at 10:00 AM in front of the Visitor Center, there will be a procession through the Fiesta grounds to the historic church, followed by a traditional Mariachi Mass in front of the church. The mission grounds and park are open throughout the weekend and admission is free."

For more information, you can visit the Visit Tuscon website. 

Visit Tuscon  




31) A Southwest Nutcracker - Tuscon

The Tuscon Regional Ballet will be performing "A Southwest Nutcracker" on Saturday, December 14th at 2:00 and 7:30 and Sunday, December 15th at 2:00.  For more information, you can visit the Tuscon Regional Ballet website. 




WEST COAST

32) The 4th Annual Voices of the River Christmas Gala - "A Royal Yuletide" - Bullhead City/Laughlin

The 4th Annual Voices of the River Christmas Gala - "A Royal Yuletide" will take place on Friday, December 13th at 7:00 p.m.  From the Bullhead City Chamber of Commerce website: 

" 'A Royal Yuletide' is the theme of the 4th Annual Christmas Gala, presented by the 75-member VOICES OF THE RIVER community choir. This year's show is a Renaissance themed performance, featuring elegant costumes, and a variety of lively Christmas music from the Renaissance Era, all for the entertainment of the audience who, indeed, are the royal guests!  Proceeds from the show benefit Mohave Community College Foundation's Student Educational Scholarship program/Bullhead City campus."  

For more information, you can visit the Bullhead City Chamber of Commerce website. 

Bullhead City Events Calendar

33) 31st Annual Boat Parade of Lights - Lake Havasu City

From the Lake Havasu website: 

This year's boat parade will take place on December 6th and 7th at 6:30 p.m.  From the city of Lake Havasu's website: 

"For the past 31 years the Annual Boat Parade of Lights has been the must-see event of the holiday season. Up to 50 boats brightly decorated in their holiday best will delight children and adults alike. Cozy up with family and friends and create treasured memories of a favorite holiday tradition!"

For more information, you can visit Lake Havasu City's website. 

Lake Havasu City 

 


34) Ken and Betty Borland Holiday Pageant and Tower Lighting - Music Event - Yuma

This event will take place on November 30th from 6:30 until 9:00.  You can get more information by visiting the Yuma Calendar website. 

Yuma Calendar


35) 11th Annual Dorothy Young Memorial Electric Light Parade - Yuma

The parade will take place on December 7th from 6:00 until 9:00.  You can get more information by visiting the Yuma Calendar website. 

Yuma Calendar


36) A Swingin' Christmas - Yuma

This event takes place at the Historic Yuma Theater on Tuesday, December 10th at 7:00.  From the City of Yuma website: 

"Christmas music never had it so good as when it was being crooned by Bing Crosby and The Andrews Sisters, Andy Williams, Nat King Cole, Perry Como, and so many more. You’ll be yearning for days gone by with classics including "Happy Holidays," "Sleigh Ride," "It’s The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year," "White Christmas," and more!"

For more information, you can visit the City of Yuma website.

City of Yuma 



37) Foothills Parade of Christmas Lights - Yuma

The parade will take place on December 13th and 14th at 6:00.  For more information, you can visit the Visit Yuma website.  



38) Irish Christmas Time - Yuma 

This event takes place at the Historic Yuma Theater on December 20th at 7:00 p.m.  For more information, you can visit the Visit Yuma website. 



39) 20th Annual Children's Festival of the Arts - Yuma

This will take place on November 2nd from 10:00 until 3:00.  

For more information, you can visit the City of Yuma website. 


40) 25th Annual Cowboy Christmas Poetry Gathering

This event will take place from December 6th through December 8th.  For more information, you can visit the Wickenburg Chamber of Commerce website. 

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