Must-See 2024 Arizona Christmas Markets and Holiday Events

Arizona may be known for its desert landscapes, but the state knows how to celebrate the holiday season with festive markets, sparkling light displays, and unique holiday events. Whether you’re in the bustling city of Phoenix, the charming town of Prescott, or the scenic red rocks of Sedona, there’s something special happening throughout the state. Here’s a list of the top Christmas events and markets across Arizona for 2024 to bring holiday magic to your season!

1. Prescott’s Christmas City Events

Known as “Arizona’s Christmas City,” Prescott hosts a range of holiday events, including the annual Courthouse Lighting and Christmas Parade. The entire downtown area is illuminated with festive lights, creating a magical holiday ambiance.

• Dates: Courthouse Lighting on December 7, 2024; other events throughout December
• Location: Downtown Prescott
• Website: prescott.org

2. ZooLights at the Phoenix Zoo

The Phoenix Zoo transforms into a winter wonderland during ZooLights, featuring millions of twinkling lights, animated animal displays, and synchronized music shows. It’s a family favorite and a must-see holiday experience in Arizona.

• Dates: November 24, 2024 – January 15, 2025
• Location: Phoenix Zoo, Phoenix
• Website: phoenixzoo.org

3. Las Noches de las Luminarias at Desert Botanical Garden

This enchanting event at the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix features thousands of luminarias lighting up the garden trails. Enjoy live music, hot chocolate, and beautiful desert scenery illuminated by candlelight.

• Dates: Select nights, November 29, 2024 – December 31, 2024
• Location: Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix
• Website: dbg.org

4. Glendale Glitters

Glendale Glitters is Arizona’s largest free holiday light display, featuring over 1.6 million lights illuminating downtown Glendale. Stroll through the beautiful lights, visit holiday vendors, and enjoy live entertainment and festive treats.

• Dates: November 24, 2024 – January 13, 2025
• Location: Downtown Glendale
• Website: visitglendale.com

5. Polar Express Train Ride in Williams

Take a magical journey on the Polar Express from Williams to the “North Pole,” inspired by the beloved children’s book. Enjoy hot chocolate, cookies, and a visit from Santa on this festive train ride through Arizona’s scenic high country.

• Dates: November 8, 2024 – December 31, 2024
• Location: Grand Canyon Railway, Williams
• Website: thetrain.com

6. Winter Wonderland at Fairmont Scottsdale Princess

The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess Resort hosts a Winter Wonderland complete with over 4 million lights, a Christmas carousel, holiday skating rink, and Santa’s Secret Headquarters. This luxurious holiday experience is perfect for families.

• Dates: November 22, 2024 – January 7, 2025
• Location: Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, Scottsdale
• Website: scottsdaleprincess.com

7. Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village Festival of Lights

Sedona’s Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village hosts its annual Festival of Lights, where 6,000 luminarias light up the village. Visitors can enjoy holiday carolers, live music, and beautiful holiday decorations throughout this unique setting.

• Date: December 14, 2024
• Location: Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village, Sedona
• Website: tlaq.com

8. Merry Main Street in Mesa

Merry Main Street in downtown Mesa offers a month-long celebration with an outdoor ice skating rink, holiday markets, tree lighting, and visits from Santa. This event brings holiday cheer to the East Valley and is fun for the whole family.

• Dates: November 24, 2024 – January 5, 2025
• Location: Downtown Mesa
• Website: merrymainst.com

9. Tempe Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade

The Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade in Tempe is a unique event where beautifully decorated boats sail along Tempe Town Lake. The evening also includes holiday lights, live entertainment, and a fireworks show, making it an unforgettable holiday experience.

• Date: December 14, 2024
• Location: Tempe Town Lake, Tempe
• Website: downtowntempe.com

10. Christmas in the Rainforest at Butterfly Wonderland

Butterfly Wonderland in Scottsdale brings a tropical twist to the holidays with “Christmas in the Rainforest.” Visitors can enjoy holiday lights, tropical decor, and live performances, creating a unique and festive experience with butterflies in a rainforest setting.

• Dates: Select dates, December 1 – December 31, 2024
• Location: Butterfly Wonderland, Scottsdale
• Website: butterflywonderland.com