December is a magical time of year, as it allows the city of Phoenix and surrounding communities to really come alive, with Southwestern hospitality and warmth. Events, such as those listed below, create a sense of community togetherness among individuals, children, and families. They also allow community members to get outside and bask in Arizona’s wonderful winter weather. Here is a sampling of Dynamic Door Service Today approved holiday events taking place in the coming days and weeks, all throughout the Grand Canyon State.
A Christmas Carol
When: December 3-24, 2015
Where: Hale Centre Theatre
50 West Page Avenue
Gilbert, AZ 85233
What: Hale Centre Theatre continues its holiday tradition with its 13th annual production of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” which runs through December 24, with traditional carols, stunning costumes, and memorable characters all guaranteed to enrich the holiday season for you and your family.
Cost: Ticket pricing for adults is $28; groups of 10+ $22; students with valid identification $22; children (5-12) $18.
When: November 27, 2015 – January 9, 2016
- Jingle Bell Rockin’ Nights; December 4-5, 2015
- Winter Wonderland Weekend; December 11-12, 2015
- Spirit of Giving Weekend; December 18-19, 2015
- Glendale Glitter & Glow Block Party; January 9, 2016
Where: Historic Downtown Glendale
58th Avenue and Glendale Avenue
Glendale, AZ
What: This award-winning festival, now in its 23rd year, is one of the best-loves events for Arizona families. Visitors of all ages will delight in holiday entertainment, delectable food, hand-crafted holiday gifts, a children’s snow field and petting zoo, shopping, and visit from Jolly Ol’ St. Nick. This event also features a stunning display of 1.5 million lights illuminating sixteen blocks of Historic Downtown Glendale.
Cost: Free to attend.
When: November 23, 2015 – January 10, 2016
Where: Phoenix Zoo
455 North Galvin Parkway
Phoenix, AZ 85008
What: ZooLights, powered by SRP EarthWise Energy, is a magical experience guaranteed to illuminate your holiday season. New this year are several 3D light sculptures, 2D butterflies and lion cubs, and Music in Motion light shows featuring music from the movie “Polar Express” and “Winter Palace” by the Trans-Siberian Orchestra.
Cost: General admission is $18 ($16 online); member admission is $16 ($14 online); good any night. Value tickets with date restrictions are $12 ($10 online) for general admission and $10 ($8 online) for member admission. Children two and under are free.
When: December 12, 2015 | 6pm
Where: Tempe Town Lake
Tempe, AZ 85281
What: Be dazzled at the Valley of the Sun’s most unique holiday event – the Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade, presented by SRP at Tempe Town Lake. The Boat Parade features as many as 50 festively lighted boats of all sizes, more than a thousand luminaries which illuminate the sidewalks and paths of Tempe Beach Park, a special display provided by Tempe South Rotary, fireworks, and Santa.
Cost: Free to attend.
When: December 18, 2015
Where: AJ Chandler Park (West)
3 South Arizona Avenue
Chandler, AZ 85225
What: Rummage up that ugly sweater your Aunt Gertrude so kindly gifted you with last holiday season, and lace up your sneakers, for this year’s Ugly Holiday Sweater Art Walk hosted by Downtown Chandler Community Partnership. Walk your way through tons of holiday cheer with twinkly lights, 50+ local artists, and a few thousand of your community friends. After you’ve completed your walk, you can enjoy caroling by C’est La Vie, free holiday face painting, and free photos with Santa.
Cost: Free to attend
When: December 12, 2015
Where: Peoria’s Centennial Plaza Park
8401 West Monroe Street
Peoria, AZ 85345
What: Designed to bring together the community of Peoria’s residents and businesses, the annual Festival of Cheer, features fun for everyone regardless of culture, holiday preference, or background. There will be various countries and culture exhibits, vendors and entertainment set-up throughout the park including SantaLand – a magical land of holiday cheer, where the spirit is bright, and the photo’s are complimentary.
Cost: Free to attend.
Happy Holidays!