Surprise Other Christmas Activities 2026

Visitors can experience a private, one-on-one visit and photo opportunity with Santa inside a modestly decorated setting without bright lights or loud noises. Outside the indoor Santa area, families can enjoy crafts, games, snacks, giveaways, and a Santa letter drop-off....

Spectators gather along city streets to watch a vibrant procession of illuminated entries celebrate the holiday season. Families set up blankets and chairs along the sidewalks to enjoy the glowing floats and community groups once the streetlights go dark. Attendees...

Spectators gather along Glendale Avenue to cheer on dazzling floats and a lively marching band competition. The community celebration honors the Christmas season with festive entries competing for awards like Best Christmas Spirit and Most Entertaining. Visitors can also participate...

Avondale transforms into a winter wonderland featuring an annual Christmas tree lighting and the premiere of the Avondazzle holiday light show. Guests can take photos with Santa, enjoy entertainment and activities, and sample food and sweet treats.

Attendees can watch an illuminated light parade run past the park along El Mirage Road. Festivities in the park include live music by Bangerz In Wonderland, photos with Santa, bounce houses, axe throwing, and a trackless train. Visitors can also...

Visitors can enjoy free bounce houses, live music, and performances by the Diamond Canyon Choir and Anthem Prep Cheer. Guests can browse local crafter booths, stop by food trucks, and pick up a free ornament decorating kit. An optional North...

Participants take part in an evening procession along Wigwam Boulevard, portraying pilgrims accompanying Mary and Joseph and singing as they request shelter at various stops. The journey concludes at the grounds of the historic St. Thomas Aquinas Mission Church with...

Participants don festive winter costumes for 1K, 5K, and 10K courses that wind through vibrant holiday light displays. The event includes a 1K Winter Waddle lap designed for an easy trek through the light show. After crossing the finish, participants...

Athletes tackle a sprint course featuring a serpentine swim in a heated pool, a multi-loop bicycle course with designated lanes separating racers from vehicular traffic, and an out-and-back run to the finish. In addition to the individual adult triathlon, the...

Participants complete a 2- to 3-mile running or walking tour through Glendale holiday light displays. The gathering features visits with the Phoenix Elves, hot cocoa, cookies from Pretty Good Cookies, and a raffle. Attendees are encouraged to wear reflective gear,...

Pet owners can browse holiday gifts and receive wellness and coat conditioning advice from staff. Activities include keepsake photos of pets with Santa Paws and a workshop guiding visitors through assembling personalized stockings with treats, toys, and supplements. A grooming...

Participants navigate a 1.42-mile loop winding through practice fields, parking lots, and the main stadium of the spring training facility. Runners choose from fixed-time races lasting from six hours up to six days, as well as fixed distances up to...

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...

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.

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...

Participants build a custom holiday centerpiece using fresh evergreens, winter blooms, berries, pinecones, and decorative accents. The hands-on session covers focal bloom selection, layering textures, and finishing decorative techniques. Light bites and water are served alongside a curated tasting selection...

Participants assemble, style, and finish a fresh live wreath with step-by-step guidance from the florist team. The session includes decorating with pinecones, berries, festive accents, and bows, as well as learning care tips to maintain greenery throughout the season. Light...

Immerse yourself in the heartwarming spirit of Christmas at the Festival of the Nativity. This free, two-night event showcases hundreds of nativity scenes from around the world, brought to life through live performances and enchanting Christmas music. Children can engage...

Buckeye invites residents to celebrate the holiday season with a variety of festive activities. Explore the Cotton Fest street fair for artisan shopping, a car show, and a tree lighting. Experience the dazzling Glow on Monroe electric light parade and...

Get ready for the Peoria Holiday Festival, a cherished community event designed to usher in the holiday season. While specific details are still being finalized, attendees can anticipate a magical evening in downtown Peoria. This festival is a wonderful opportunity...

Capture magical holiday memories with a visit to Santa Claus at Arrowhead Towne Center. Book your reservation to ensure a special photo session with Santa, who is ready to make lasting memories. Beyond meeting Santa, explore the wide array of...

Experience the enchantment of the holiday season at The Wigwam's annual Tree Lighting. This festive event marks the beginning of holiday cheer at the historic resort, inviting guests to gather and celebrate. Enjoy the magical illumination of a grand holiday...

Experience the magic of the holiday season with a delightful Breakfast with Santa at The Wigwam. This special event offers a chance for children to meet Santa Claus, share their wishes, and enjoy a festive breakfast. It's a wonderful opportunity...

Community members will share Christmas musical talents at a free, public celebration. Families and friends are welcome.

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

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...

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...

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...

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

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...

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.

Ring in the new year at noon with a jubilant celebration at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park. This family-friendly event features a special countdown with a 'Golden Railroad Spike Drop' precisely at noon, accompanied by a sparkling cider toast. Guests can also...