Gilbert Other Christmas Activities 2026

Visitors gather at Water Tower Plaza to watch the water tower light up and enjoy live musical performances by country singer-songwriter Christie Huff. Families can go sledding on real man-made snow, jump in inflatables, make holiday crafts, and visit with...

The community gathering celebrates the life and birth of Jesus Christ through spoken messages, scripture readings, and musical performances. Attendees participate in a morning of worship and reflection.

Visitors can watch dazzling floats, performers, and holiday characters travel down Mill Avenue during the festive street parade. The celebration continues at CenterPoint Plaza with the official lighting of a 36-foot-tall holiday tree alongside live music and roaming entertainers. Families...

Visitors kick off the holiday season with a tree lighting ceremony, community stage performances by local arts groups, and a lineup of food trucks. Children can take pictures with Santa, write letters to him, decorate garland and ornaments in Santa's...

Hosted in partnership with ASU Chabad, this community Chanukah celebration features a ceremonial menorah lighting and communal candle lighting. Visitors can hear traditional blessings and music while enjoying select kosher treats. Children can also participate in seasonal crafts and activities.

The pageant honors Our Lady of Guadalupe with a theatrical reenactment depicting the appearances of the Virgin Mary to Juan Diego on Tepeyac Hill. Actors perform the play on a stage constructed inside the historic church. Following the performance, attendees...

Participants run or walk a flat canal course starting at AZ Falls, choosing between a chip-timed 5K and a kids one-mile run. Finishers receive a custom medal and lapel pin, as well as post-race water, snacks, popsicles, and entry into...

Participants run or walk 5K, 10K, or half-marathon distances in capped, small-group waves. The course does not use timing chips, allowing participants to run at their own pace, log times via a personal fitness app, or request timing assistance from...

A seasonal music performance takes place at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Mesa. Attendees gather for a community Christmas concert program.

Led by Donnella Corey, LPC, this workshop teaches participants how to establish guilt-free boundaries and handle difficult family dynamics. Attendees learn practical tools for addressing emotional triggers, navigating seasonal expectations, and staying grounded during stressful moments. The session focuses on...

Ignite your child's creativity at this special blacklight painting event! They'll follow along with expert instructors to bring a festive 'All Aglow Christmas Tree' to life on canvas. This unique experience uses blacklights to make the colors pop, creating a...

Chandler's Parade of Lights illuminates the downtown area each December with a dazzling spectacle of illuminated floats, community organizations, and festive participants. This beloved event transforms the streets into a glowing celebration, bringing joy and holiday cheer to spectators of...

Lace up your skates for the Winter Wonderland Ice Rink, featuring 6,000 square feet of real ice! This popular attraction offers public skating sessions throughout the holiday season, with tickets available for purchase online in advance. Special events like 'Inclusive...

The Zoo Move & Groove 5K Run at the Phoenix Zoo is a family-friendly race through ZooLights, with proceeds supporting animal care and conservation.

Capture cherished holiday memories with Santa Claus at Chandler Fashion Center. This popular event offers families a chance to take professional photos with Santa, creating lasting keepsakes. Enjoy the festive atmosphere of the mall as you celebrate the season.

Live entertainment is scheduled throughout Old Town Scottsdale during the holidays, featuring strolling carolers, dancing trios like the Jingle Belles, and performers such as Lasso Steve.

Experience a festive Saturday morning at the Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market, where Santa Claus himself will be making a special appearance. Children and pets alike can capture cherished memories with a printed photo alongside Santa. Discover delicious, fresh produce...

A family-friendly Hanukkah celebration occurs at Soleri Plaza, featuring a 9-foot Menorah, live music, singing, and children's crafts. The candle lighting ceremony begins at 6:30 PM.

This free, winter-themed play date at Scottsdale Civic Center offers a delightful experience for families. Hosted by the Scottsdale Public Library, the event features a variety of interactive activities, including art, science, and sports, all designed to celebrate the fundamental...

Experience the magic of Christmas at the Old Adobe Mission with a live nativity and choir concert. This event brings the story of Christ's birth to life with real performers and animals, accompanied by a beautiful Christmas choir concert. It's...

Get ready for a magical holiday adventure with the Scottsdale Sparkle & Spin Scavenger Hunts! This event invites participants to explore the festive atmosphere of Old Town Scottsdale, solving intriguing clues as they navigate the charming streets. It's a perfect...

Step into an evening of warmth and musical charm with Hahnna's holiday performance. This cabaret promises a delightful blend of festive jazz and classic holiday cheer, perfect for adding sparkle to the season. It's an ideal event for friends and...

Gallery Andrea's Christmas Poinsettias exhibition displays miniature poinsettias and holiday-themed fashion by international artists Andrea de Kerpely-Zak and Zakrzewski.

Unleash your inner artist at the Holly Jolly DIY Décor event on the Scottsdale Waterfront. Guided by professionals from the Scottsdale Artists' School, participants of all skill levels will enjoy a hands-on crafting experience. Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere...

Paws & Give: Adoption & Donation Holiday Open House allows visitors to meet adoptable dogs and donate items from the Arizona Animal Welfare League's wish list.

Merry & Mindful: A Power 9 Holiday Wellness Reset includes Yoga Kriya and guided meditation for navigating holiday stress, with a holiday wishlist drive for the Arizona Animal Welfare League.