This holiday season, Tucson, AZ transforms into a vibrant hub of festive activities, perfect for locals and visitors alike. Stroll through a walkable winter wonderland at the Winterhaven Festival of Lights, where elaborate displays light up the neighborhood. Experience the magic of animal-themed illuminations at ZooLights at Reid Park Zoo, or explore unique arts and crafts at the Fourth Avenue Winter Street Fair.
Whether you're seeking dazzling lights, interactive art, or unique cultural experiences, Tucson has something to make your holidays unforgettable. With events like the Winterhaven Festival, ZooLights, and the Fourth Avenue Fair, you're sure to find festive cheer around every corner.
Please contact us if you have suggestions or corrections!
Got questions? Like to help? Check out our Tucson Holiday discussion here!
The Top Christmas Events in Tucson
- Winterhaven Festival of Lights
- ZooLights at Reid Park Zoo
- Fourth Avenue Winter Street Fair
- Holiday Nights at Tohono Chul
- Luminaria Nights at Tucson Botanical Gardens
- Holiday Express at the North Pole
- Tucson Symphony Orchestra Holiday Concert
- Holiday Craft Market at Tucson Convention Center
- Winter Artisans Market
- Miracle on Congress Street
Tucson Holiday Light Displays
Winterhaven Festival of Lights
What to Expect:
Neighborhood-wide light display with 70+ year tradition
Description:
Tucson's Winterhaven neighborhood transforms into a dazzling spectacle of lights each December. This 70-year-old tradition brings together residents who decorate their homes with elaborate displays, creating a walkable winter wonderland. Visitors can stroll through the illuminated streets, enjoying the creativity and community spirit. The festival's roots trace back to 1949 when C.B. Richards, the neighborhood's founder, began the tradition of decorating every home. You can donate non-perishable food items at collection points throughout the neighborhood, supporting the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona.
Website:
Winterhaven Festival of Lights
ZooLights at Reid Park Zoo
What to Expect:
Animal-themed light displays and nocturnal animal viewing
Description:
Reid Park Zoo illuminates the night with animal-themed light displays, offering a unique twist on holiday lighting. As you wander through the zoo after dark, you'll encounter glowing sculptures of exotic creatures and twinkling recreations of natural habitats. The event provides a rare opportunity to observe nocturnal animals during their active hours. Tucson's Reid Park Zoo, established in 1965, has grown from a small collection of birds and prairie dogs to a diverse wildlife sanctuary. Visitors can warm up with hot cocoa while learning about conservation efforts supported by the zoo.
Website:
Holiday Nights at Tohono Chul
What to Expect:
Southwestern-themed holiday lights in a botanical garden setting
Description:
Tohono Chul botanical gardens blend Southwestern flora with holiday illumination, creating a uniquely Arizonan winter experience. The garden paths wind through native desert plants adorned with thousands of twinkling lights, highlighting the beauty of cacti and succulents. Live music performances featuring local artists echo through the night air. Tohono Chul, meaning "desert corner" in the Tohono O'odham language, was established in 1985 to preserve the natural desert landscape. You can participate in guided twilight tours to learn about the desert's nocturnal life and cultural significance.
Website:
Luminaria Nights at Tucson Botanical Gardens
What to Expect:
Thousands of luminarias lighting garden paths
Description:
Tucson Botanical Gardens transforms into a serene oasis during Luminaria Nights, with thousands of flickering luminarias lining the pathways. This Southwestern tradition casts a warm glow over the diverse plant collections, creating an intimate atmosphere. Soft music drifts through the air as visitors meander through themed gardens. The Tucson Botanical Gardens, founded in 1964, began as a private residence and has since evolved into a 5.5-acre urban oasis. Guests can participate in guided night walks to learn about desert plants and their adaptations to nocturnal life.
Website:
Luminaria Nights at Tucson Botanical Gardens
Tucson Holiday Markets and Shopping
Fourth Avenue Winter Street Fair
What to Expect:
Eclectic mix of local and national artisans in historic district
Description:
The Fourth Avenue Winter Street Fair transforms Tucson's historic shopping district into a vibrant marketplace. Over 400 artisans from across the nation converge to showcase their unique creations, from handcrafted jewelry to avant-garde sculptures. The air fills with the aroma of sizzling street food as local musicians provide a lively soundtrack. This biannual event has been a Tucson staple since 1970, reflecting the city's commitment to supporting independent artists and businesses. Explore the eclectic shops lining Fourth Avenue to discover one-of-a-kind gifts with southwestern flair.
Website:
Fourth Avenue Winter Street Fair
Holiday Craft Market at Tucson Convention Center
What to Expect:
Large-scale indoor market featuring handmade crafts and artisanal goods
Description:
The Holiday Craft Market at Tucson Convention Center brings together hundreds of skilled artisans under one roof. This expansive indoor marketplace showcases a diverse array of handcrafted items, from intricate jewelry to custom woodwork. The buzz of excited shoppers fills the air as they discover unique treasures. The Tucson Convention Center, opened in 1971, has been a hub for large-scale events in the city for decades. Visitors can watch live demonstrations of various crafting techniques, gaining insight into the artisans' creative processes.
Website:
Holiday Craft Market at Tucson Convention Center
Winter Artisans Market
What to Expect:
Curated selection of high-quality, locally-made art and crafts
Description:
The Winter Artisans Market presents a carefully curated selection of Tucson's finest handmade creations. This intimate gathering of skilled artisans offers a more personalized shopping experience, with each item telling a unique story of craftsmanship. The market hums with the energy of creative minds as artists discuss their work with patrons. Reflecting Tucson's rich artistic heritage, this event continues the tradition of supporting local creators that has been a hallmark of the city's culture. You can engage in hands-on workshops led by participating artists, learning techniques firsthand.
Website:
Tucson Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Tucson Symphony Orchestra Holiday Concert
What to Expect:
Professional orchestra performing both classical and popular holiday music
Description:
The Tucson Symphony Orchestra's Holiday Concert elevates the season with a blend of classical masterpieces and beloved carols. World-class musicians fill the concert hall with rich, harmonious melodies that resonate with the spirit of the season. This annual tradition showcases the versatility of the orchestra, seamlessly transitioning from Handel's "Messiah" to modern holiday favorites. Founded in 1928, the Tucson Symphony Orchestra is the oldest continuing professional performing arts organization in Arizona. Audience members can join in a festive sing-along, becoming part of the musical celebration.
Website:
Tucson Symphony Orchestra Holiday Concert
Tucson Other Holiday Activities
Holiday Express at the North Pole
What to Expect:
Train ride through a recreated North Pole village
Description:
The Holiday Express whisks visitors away on a journey to a whimsical North Pole village in the heart of Tucson. This miniature train adventure winds through elaborately decorated scenes, bringing holiday stories to life. The sound of jingle bells fills the air as the train chugs along its merry route. Inspired by classic holiday tales, this attraction recreates the magic of childhood imagination. Children can write letters to Santa at the North Pole post office, continuing a tradition that dates back to the 1800s.
Website:
Holiday Express at the North Pole
Miracle on Congress Street
What to Expect:
Downtown street transformed into a holiday promenade
Description:
Miracle on Congress Street revitalizes downtown Tucson with a festive makeover. The historic street becomes a pedestrian-friendly promenade adorned with holiday decorations and pop-up attractions. Local shops and restaurants spill onto the sidewalks, creating a lively atmosphere. This event harkens back to the mid-20th century when Congress Street was the bustling heart of Tucson's retail and entertainment scene. Visitors can embark on guided historical tours, learning about the street's storied past while enjoying its holiday transformation.
Website:
Glowing Pumpkins and Winter Wonderland
What to Expect:
Unique blend of Halloween and Christmas themes
Description:
Glowing Pumpkins and Winter Wonderland offers a distinctive fusion of Halloween and Christmas aesthetics. This unconventional event features intricately carved illuminated pumpkins alongside traditional winter scenes. The contrast creates a visually striking experience that challenges holiday norms. This innovative approach reflects Tucson's creative spirit and willingness to embrace new traditions. Guests can try their hand at pumpkin carving workshops, learning techniques to create their own glowing masterpieces.
Website:
Glowing Pumpkins and Winter Wonderland
Santa's Workshop at Old Tucson
What to Expect:
Holiday activities in a Wild West theme park setting
Description:
Santa's Workshop at Old Tucson transports visitors to a frontier-style holiday celebration. The historic Western theme park dons its holiday best, blending cowboy charm with yuletide cheer. Stunt shows and gunfights take on a holiday twist, creating a uniquely Southwestern holiday experience. Old Tucson, originally built as a movie set in 1939, has been a cornerstone of Tucson's cultural landscape for decades. You can join in old-fashioned holiday games and activities, experiencing Christmas as it might have been celebrated in the Old West.
Website:
Santa's Workshop at Old Tucson
Nearby Events
La Fiesta de Tumacácori (Tumacácori)
What to Expect:
Celebration of cultural diversity at a historic mission site
Description:
La Fiesta de Tumacácori brings the rich tapestry of borderland cultures to life at the historic Tumacácori National Historical Park. This lively celebration features traditional music, dance performances, and artisan demonstrations from various cultures, including O'odham, Yaqui, and Mexican. The aroma of traditional foods wafts through the air as visitors explore the grounds of the 17th-century Spanish colonial mission. Established in 1691, Tumacácori Mission stands as a testament to the region's complex history. Visitors can join in traditional folk dances, connecting with the area's diverse heritage.
Website:
Tucson Premium Outlets Holiday Celebration (Marana)
What to Expect:
Combines holiday shopping deals with festive entertainment
Description:
Tucson Premium Outlets elevates the holiday shopping experience with a celebration that blends retail therapy and entertainment. The outdoor mall comes alive with holiday decor, while special promotions entice savvy shoppers. Live performances by local musicians create a joyful ambiance throughout the complex. Tucson Premium Outlets, opened in 2015, represents a modern interpretation of the city's long-standing mercantile traditions. Guests can participate in charity gift-wrapping stations, supporting local non-profit organizations while preparing their purchases.
Website:
Tucson Premium Outlets Holiday Celebration
Oro Valley Holiday Festival of the Arts (Oro Valley)
What to Expect:
Combines fine art showcase with family-friendly holiday activities
Description:
The Oro Valley Holiday Festival of the Arts merges high-quality artwork with seasonal cheer. This open-air event showcases the works of juried artists against the backdrop of the Santa Catalina Mountains. The festival grounds buzz with activity as families engage in holiday-themed crafts and games. Established in the 1990s, this festival has grown to become a significant cultural event in the greater Tucson area. Visitors can watch plein air painters at work, capturing the beauty of the desert winter on canvas.
Website:
Oro Valley Holiday Festival of the Arts