Here's your comprehensive guide to the holidays in Tempe! Find all the top festive events and attractions. For Tempe residents and newcomers, our guide is your key to the festive season.
ZooLights, hosted at the Phoenix Zoo, transforms the space into a twinkling winter wonderland, perfect for a family outing. Lush desert landscapes come alive at the Desert Botanical Garden during Las Noches de las Luminarias with thousands of glowing luminarias and holiday lights. And the Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade is something you definitely don't want to miss, featuring decorated boats cruising down Tempe Town Lake. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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The Top Christmas Events in Tempe
See these and even more events listed below!Tempe Holiday Light Displays
Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade
What to Expect:
Illuminated boat procession
Description:
The Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade brings holiday cheer to Tempe Town Lake. Decorated watercraft, from kayaks to yachts, glide across the water's surface in a dazzling procession. The event culminates with a fireworks display that reflects off the lake's surface. Spectators can vote for their favorite boat designs. This unique aquatic parade began in 1999 and has grown to become a cherished local tradition. The gentle lapping of water against the shore provides a soothing backdrop to the visual spectacle, creating a memorable holiday experience that celebrates Arizona's waterways.
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Tempe Holiday Markets and Shopping
Tempe Festival of the Arts
What to Expect:
Outdoor art festival with holiday twist
Description:
The Tempe Festival of the Arts transforms downtown into a bustling outdoor gallery and marketplace. Over 350 artists from across North America display their creations, offering unique holiday gift options. Live performances on multiple stages add to the lively atmosphere. Visitors can watch artists demonstrate their techniques, gaining insight into various creative processes. Established in 1968, this biannual event has become a cornerstone of Tempe's cultural scene. The festival's holiday edition features seasonal art and decor alongside year-round favorites. As you browse the booths, the aroma of freshly made kettle corn wafts through the air, enticing your senses.
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Nearby Events
ZooLights (Phoenix)
What to Expect:
Animal-themed light displays
Description:
ZooLights transforms the Phoenix Zoo into a dazzling nocturnal spectacle. Millions of LED lights illuminate the pathways, creating vibrant animal sculptures and whimsical scenes. Visitors can ride the carousel for a unique nighttime experience. The event began in 1992 and has since become a beloved holiday tradition. As you stroll through the illuminated exhibits, the soft glow reflects off the nearby lagoon, adding to the serene atmosphere. ZooLights not only celebrates the holiday season but also raises awareness about wildlife conservation.
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Las Noches de las Luminarias (Phoenix)
What to Expect:
Southwestern luminaria tradition
Description:
Las Noches de las Luminarias at the Desert Botanical Garden embraces a cherished Southwestern tradition. Thousands of hand-lit luminarias line the garden paths, casting a warm glow on the desert landscape. The event showcases the unique beauty of native plants illuminated against the night sky. Visitors can enjoy live music performances scattered throughout the garden. This celebration dates back to the Spanish colonial era, blending cultural heritage with natural beauty. The soft light of the luminarias accentuates the sculptural forms of cacti and succulents, creating a distinctly Arizonan holiday ambiance.
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CitySkate Holiday Ice Rink (Phoenix)
What to Expect:
Outdoor ice skating in the desert
Description:
CitySkate Holiday Ice Rink brings winter fun to the heart of downtown Phoenix. This outdoor rink offers a rare opportunity to glide on ice under the warm Arizona sun or starry desert sky. Skaters can practice their moves surrounded by towering skyscrapers and palm trees. The rink features a massive Christmas tree at its center, serving as a unique focal point. Established in 2010, CitySkate has quickly become a holiday staple, blending urban sophistication with seasonal cheer. The contrast of cool ice against the desert backdrop creates a truly distinctive holiday experience.
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Glendale Glitters (Glendale)
What to Expect:
Historic downtown light display
Description:
Glendale Glitters illuminates the city's historic downtown with a stunning display of 1.6 million LED lights. The event transforms 16 blocks into a twinkling wonderland, highlighting the area's vintage architecture. Visitors can enjoy nightly falling snow, a rarity in the Arizona desert. Launched in 1993, Glendale Glitters has grown to become the largest free holiday light display in Arizona. The event showcases local businesses and restaurants, encouraging exploration of the charming downtown area. As you wander through the glowing streets, the scent of roasted chestnuts fills the air, adding to the festive atmosphere.
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Arizona Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” (Phoenix)
What to Expect:
Southwestern-inspired production
Description:
Arizona Ballet's "The Nutcracker" infuses the classic tale with unique Southwestern flair. The production features custom-designed sets that reflect Arizona's landscape, including saguaro cacti and red rock formations. Dancers perform to Tchaikovsky's iconic score, bringing the beloved story to life with precision and grace. You'll marvel at the elaborate costumes that blend traditional ballet attire with subtle nods to the region's heritage. This adaptation has been captivating audiences since 1986, becoming a cherished part of Arizona's cultural landscape. The performance showcases the talent of local dancers while celebrating the state's distinctive character.
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Arizona Ballet’s “The Nutcracker”
Chandler Parade of Lights (Chandler)
What to Expect:
Community-driven holiday parade
Description:
The Chandler Parade of Lights brings together local businesses, schools, and organizations in a vibrant procession through downtown. Elaborately decorated floats, many featuring innovative light displays, wind their way through the streets. The parade culminates with the arrival of Santa Claus on a Chandler fire truck. Spectators can enjoy the lively atmosphere as marching bands fill the air with holiday tunes. This community-driven event, started in 1957, reflects Chandler's small-town charm and strong sense of civic pride. The parade showcases the creativity and spirit of local residents, making it a true celebration of the community.
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Merry Main Street (Mesa)
What to Expect:
Small-town holiday charm in a big city
Description:
Merry Main Street brings small-town holiday charm to downtown Mesa. The event features a four-story Christmas tree, a vintage-inspired skating rink, and a holiday market showcasing local artisans. Visitors can take a ride on the free Polar Express train, a hit with children and adults alike. Launched in 2015, Merry Main Street quickly became a beloved tradition, revitalizing Mesa's historic downtown during the holiday season. The event highlights the area's unique blend of urban amenities and community spirit. As you explore the festivities, the sound of carolers echoes through the streets, adding to the nostalgic atmosphere.
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Scottsdazzle (Scottsdale)
What to Expect:
Upscale holiday celebration in Old Town
Description:
Scottsdazzle transforms Old Town Scottsdale into a sophisticated holiday destination. The month-long celebration features curated events, from wine tastings to art walks, all with a holiday twist. Visitors can admire the 30-foot Christmas tree adorned with custom ornaments reflecting Scottsdale's heritage. The event showcases the city's vibrant arts scene, with galleries hosting special holiday exhibitions. Launched in 2016, Scottsdazzle has quickly become a hallmark of Scottsdale's winter season. As you stroll through the illuminated streets, the soft glow of white lights creates an elegant ambiance, perfectly complementing the upscale boutiques and restaurants of Old Town.
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Tumbleweed Tree Lighting Ceremony (Chandler)
What to Expect:
Unique desert-inspired Christmas tree
Description:
The Tumbleweed Tree Lighting Ceremony in Chandler celebrates a truly Arizonan holiday tradition. The centerpiece is a 35-foot tall tree constructed from nearly 1,000 tumbleweeds, spray-painted white and adorned with 65 pounds of glitter. This one-of-a-kind creation embodies the innovative spirit of the desert Southwest. Visitors can witness the lighting of this unique tree, a spectacle that draws thousands each year. The tradition began in 1957, making it one of the longest-running holiday events in the region. As the tree illuminates, a collective gasp of awe ripples through the crowd, marking the official start of Chandler's holiday season.
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Tumbleweed Tree Lighting Ceremony