Most Popular Things To Do For The Holidays in Phoenix

The Phoenix, Scottsdale, and metro area feature numerous holiday events running through December 31, 2025. Top attractions include large light displays, ice skating rinks, and theatrical performances suitable for all ages.

Here are some of the best events to attend:

Major Light Displays & Immersive Experiences

- Christmas at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess The resort transforms into a winter wonderland with over 16 million lights, a 6,000-square-foot ice rink, a Ferris wheel, and various attractions. The event runs nightly through January 3, 2026. General admission is $40 per person, with separate parking fees
- ZooLights at the Phoenix Zoo A beloved annual tradition featuring millions of lights, dazzling animal sculptures, and a new light show. It is primarily a walking experience, running nightly from 5:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. through January 16, 2026. General admission is $35.
- Las Noches de las Luminarias at the Desert Botanical Garden Walk through garden paths illuminated by thousands of lights and luminarias. Select nights feature live entertainment, including mariachi bands and cultural dancers. This event runs on specific dates in December (e.g., Dec 18-23, 26-30, 2025). Adult general admission is $45.95.
- Glendale Glitters in Downtown Glendale This free event illuminates Murphy Park and the surrounding downtown area with hundreds of thousands of lights, running nightly from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. through December 31, 2025.
- World of Illumination The world's largest drive-through animated light show has two themed locations: "Rockin' Christmas" at Tempe Diablo Stadium and "Cosmic Sleighride" at Desert Diamond Casino. Both run nightly through January 4, 2026.
  
  Family Activities & Performances
- McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park Holiday Lights Enjoy a train ride through tunnels of twinkling lights and holiday scenes. The event runs from November 28 through December 30, 2025 (closed Christmas Eve and Day). Timed entry tickets are required.
- Merry Main Street in Downtown Mesa Features a giant Christmas tree, a winter wonderland ice rink, free visits with Santa, and a Holiday Sunset Market on Thursdays. The Mesa Temple Christmas Lights are also open nightly from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. through Dec. 31.
- The Nutcracker Ballet Various productions are available, including performances by Ballet Arizona and the International Ballet Stars at the Orpheum Theatre on December 9, 2025.
- "A Christmas Carol" The classic tale is performed at several venues, including the Hale Centre Theatre (through Dec. 24) and The Phoenix Theatre Company (through Dec. 28).
- Noon Year's Eve The Children's Museum of Phoenix is hosting a "Noon Year's Eve" celebration on December 31, 2025, with a countdown and balloon drop at midday, ideal for families with young children.