LightsUp! A Festival of Illumination
Designed by public garden landscape architect Tres Fromme, the grounds transform into a sequenced series of illuminated experiences with over one million twinkling lights. Visitors can stroll past glowing luminaria chandeliers, twinkling tin stars, and sculptures custom-built by local artisans. Guests can also enjoy holiday treats, hot cocoa, and grab-and-go bites from on-site food and drink vendors.
What to Expect
Over one million lights, luminaria chandeliers, and custom artisan installations.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Tucson Botanical Gardens
Food & Drink
Edna’s Eatery serves holiday cookies, hot cocoa, and grab-and-go bites; Peddler on the Path serves hot drinks in Porter Patio on Thursday through Sunday nights.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and holiday-light fans
Vibe
Festive and immersive
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: 6:00 pm – 9:30 pm; last ticket sold at 9:00 pm.
- Accessibility: Non-motorized wheelchairs are available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis at admissions.
- Pets: Dogs are not allowed; trained service dogs identified with a vest or collar are welcome.
Tips & Advice
- Reserve your tickets online in advance, because LightsUp! does sell out, even though tickets are also sold at the door.
- Come on a Thursday through Sunday night if you want hot drinks from Peddler on the Path, which sets up on Porter Patio on those nights.
- Don't cut it close at the end of the night, because the last tickets are sold half an hour before the lights close.
- If you need a wheelchair, ask at admissions when you arrive, since the free non-motorized chairs are loaned first-come, first-served.
- Dress for the weather, because the whole walk is outdoors and the Gardens stay open rain or shine.
Special Events & Promotions
- Thursday through Sunday nights, Peddler on the Path serves hot drinks on Porter Patio.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to buy tickets ahead of time?
Tickets are sold online and at the door, but the event does sell out. Reserve in advance to be safe.
What food and drinks are there?
Edna's Eatery serves holiday cookies, hot cocoa and grab-and-go bites. From Thursday through Sunday nights, Peddler on the Path also sells hot drinks on Porter Patio.
Is it indoors or outdoors?
All of the garden spaces are outdoors, and the Gardens stay open rain or shine.
Can I bring my dog?
No. Trained service dogs identified with a vest or collar are welcome.
Are wheelchairs available?
Yes. Several non-motorized wheelchairs are loaned free on a first-come, first-served basis. Ask staff at admissions when you arrive.
More Christmas Events Near Tucson
More Christmas Events near Tucson
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.