Christmas at the Princess
Guests explore a desert winter wonderland featuring millions of holiday lights, outdoor ice skating on real ice, and rides such as a 120-foot traveling Ferris wheel and the Princess Express train. Attractions include the Starlights lagoon light show, video and musical light projections in the Enchanted Plaza, and campfire marshmallow roasting in S'moresland. Visitors can also write letters in Santa's Mailroom and meet holiday characters throughout the grounds.
What to Expect
Holiday festival across 65 acres with 17 million lights and outdoor ice skating.
Event Details
Duration
The FAQ says visitors may be able to experience all activities in one evening, but recommends two evenings to enjoy the festival without rushing.
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
North Scottsdale
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Fairmont Scottsdale Princess
Food & Drink
Food and beverage options are available at each venue; S’moresland offers campfire marshmallows, and the S’mores Chalet includes unlimited hot cocoa and a festive s’mores bar.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and holiday-light enthusiasts
Vibe
Luminous and festive
Energy Level
High
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: Monday–Thursday 5–10 PM; Friday–Sunday 4–11 PM; beginning December 17, daily hours are 4–11 PM.
- Parking: Advance parking costs $120 for valet or $35 for self-parking; parking is separate from admission.
- Accessibility: Access to all event venues is available, though some rides and attractions may have limitations.
- Pets: Only service dogs are allowed on property during the event.
Tips & Advice
- Buy your tickets before you arrive, because this is a ticketed event with limited availability and waiting to buy onsite isn't recommended.
- Arrive as soon as the event opens so you have the whole night, since the 65-acre grounds take a full evening to enjoy without rushing.
- Book Bourbon Steak, La Hacienda or Toro Scottsdale at least a month ahead, because the restaurants fill up throughout the holiday season.
- Bring a card instead of cash, because the event is cashless. Leave outside food and alcohol at home, since neither is allowed on property.
- Dress for the weather, and festive clothes are welcome, because the event runs rain or shine and some activities may pause in extreme weather.
Special Events & Promotions
- All-new S'mores Chalet: lounge access with unlimited hot cocoa, a s'mores bar and semi-private seating, first come, first served.
- Starlights, a new light spectacular with millions of lights, debuts this season.
- Chateau Champagne, a new and exclusive date-night experience.
- Photos with Santa nightly through December 24, for an extra fee on top of General Admission.
- Special offers for Arizona residents and an Ultimate Santa Experience Package.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can we see everything in one evening?
You can, depending on when you visit. The festival covers 65 acres, though, so to see it without rushing, plan on two evenings or book an overnight stay. An overnight stay comes with VIP Express Wristbands that cut wait times at the rides and attractions.
Are there height or age limits for the rides and ice skating?
Each ride has its own minimum height, ranging from 36 to 54 inches. Skaters at Desert Ice must be able to stand and skate on their own, and there are no skating walkers or skating assistance. Skates come in sizes from Junior 8 to Adult 15, plus adjustable double-bladed skates that strap over children's shoes.
What food and drink is there?
Sit-down choices are Bourbon Steak, La Hacienda, Toro Scottsdale and The Plaza Bar. For walk-up food, there's The Lodge, Comet's Caboose, Twinkle's Takeout, Copper Canyon Kettle Corn, Mrs. Claus' Cookies, The Princess Nut Roasting Co., a churro cart, Kringle's Kup and Desert Dough Co. Outside food isn't allowed.
How do photos with Santa work?
Every guest needs a General Admission ticket, and the photo experience costs extra. It includes Elf Academy, Christmas carols with Mrs. Claus, more photo spots and one digital photo with Santa. You're welcome to take your own photos on your phone. Santa is there nightly through Christmas Eve.
How do we make s'mores?
Buy s'mores kits at the pop-up shops and concession stands near S'moresland in The Village, Twinkle Town and Winterland. Then roast them at any of the first-come, first-served fire tables. If you reserve a VIP fire table or igloo, Santa brings a s'mores board. Gluten-free kits aren't available.
More Christmas Events Near Scottsdale
More Christmas Events near Scottsdale
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.