25Nov, 2025

Must-See Holiday Events in Scottsdale and Phoenix!

While other cities are bundled up and battling blizzards, Scottsdale and Phoenix celebrate the holidays under clear, mild skies with spectacular light displays and unique Southwestern traditions. The Valley of the Sun transforms into a shimmering winter wonderland, offering everything from massive resort spectacles to serene, glowing desert landscapes.

Here are the top, can’t-miss holiday events that draw crowds (and holiday cheer!) every single year:

The Desert’s Best Light Shows

You don’t need snow to feel the holiday magic—just millions of dazzling LED lights!

  • ZooLights at the Phoenix Zoo
    • What it is: One of the region’s largest and most beloved traditions. Millions of twinkling lights transform the zoo, featuring glowing animal sculptures, synchronized music-in-motion shows, and the iconic floating Christmas tree.
    • Tip: Look for special dates like “Sensory Friendly ZooLights” or the “Cruise ZooLights” drive-through experience.
    • Learn More & Get Tickets

 

  • Las Noches de las Luminarias at Desert Botanical Garden
    • What it is: A uniquely serene and beautiful Sonoran Desert experience. Over 8,000 hand-lit luminarias (paper bags with candles) and countless twinkle lights illuminate the garden trails. The event features live entertainment, from mariachis to handbell choirs, creating a truly Southwestern Christmas ambiance.
    • Tip: This event often sells out—book your preferred date well in advance!
    • Learn More & Get Tickets

 

  • World of Illumination
    • What it is: The world’s largest animated drive-through light show, operating across multiple Valley locations (like Tempe and Glendale). You tune your radio to a special station and drive through massive tunnels and displays synchronized perfectly to holiday music.
    • Tip: A great option for families who want to stay warm and dry in the car.
    • Check Locations & Buy Tickets (Link is to a general provider page)

Scottsdale’s Spectacular Winter Wonderlands

Scottsdale goes all-out for the holidays, turning the resort area and Old Town into festive destinations.

  • Christmas at the Princess – Fairmont Scottsdale Princess
    • What it is: A 65-acre, full-scale holiday resort experience featuring over 16 million lights. Highlights include an outdoor ice skating rink, a dazzling light show (“Starlights: An Electric Symphony”), train rides through the resort’s lagoons, and S’moresland.
    • Tip: Plan to spend an entire evening here; there are rides, activities, and dining options for all ages.
    • Learn More & Plan Your Visit

 

  • Holiday Lights at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
    • What it is: A favorite family tradition where the Paradise & Pacific Railroad takes you on a festive ride through a park sparkling with thousands of holiday lights and displays.
    • Tip: Timed entry is usually required, and this event is very popular with young children.
    • Check Dates & Buy Tickets

 

  • Scottsdazzle Holiday Extravaganza
    • What it is: A month-long celebration in Old Town Scottsdale featuring the Jingle & Jazz Tree Lighting, canal-side light displays, unique art walks, and festive performances along the Scottsdale Waterfront.
    • Tip: Look for the various themed events like the Scottsdazzle Stroll & Shop to support local businesses.
    • View Scottsdazzle Schedule (Often integrated into the city’s events page)

Cultural Events and Festive Feasts

The holidays are also a wonderful time for culture and community celebrations.

  • The Nutcracker by Ballet Arizona
    • What it is: See Tchaikovsky’s timeless score and the beloved story come to life at Symphony Hall in downtown Phoenix. A must-see for ballet lovers and a beautiful family tradition.
    • Check Dates & Tickets (Link to Ballet Arizona’s main site)
  • The Phoenix Symphony Holiday Concerts
    • What it is: The Symphony offers various festive programs, often including Handel’s Messiah, “Holiday Pops,” and sometimes concerts featuring holiday movie scores.
    • See Concert Schedule

Don’t Forget Event Shuttles and Transportation!

Getting around the Valley during the holiday season can involve heavy traffic and crowded parking lots near these popular events. Consider easing the stress by booking a Divine Charter bus for your group, company, or family reunion. We handle the parking and the driving, ensuring your festive night out starts the moment you board!

Would you like a quick quote on bus rental for a holiday group trip to one of these dazzling events? Contact us anytime!