When it comes to holiday cheer, Christmas in Scottsdale transforms the desert into a glowing wonderland. With twinkling lights, festive markets, and family-friendly experiences, there’s something for everyone — from couples looking for cozy nights under the stars to families making new traditions.
Here’s your complete guide to the most magical events and must-see attractions this holiday season.
1. Scottsdazzle in Old Town Scottsdale
Downtown Scottsdale Waterfront, 7135 E Camelback Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
- Mid-November – December 31, 2025
- Free admission; select ticketed activities
Every holiday season, Old Town Scottsdale bursts into color during Scottsdazzle, a month-long celebration along the canal and throughout the historic downtown district. From the towering tree lighting to the Gold Palette ArtWalk, the city’s streets come alive with music, twinkling lights, and local art.
The waterfront glows with reflections of millions of lights, while pop-up artisan markets, wine tastings, and visits from Santa make it a perfect evening stroll. You can even catch themed weekends like Sweet Treats & Cocoa Crawl or Canal Concert Nights.
Insider Tip: Park near the Waterfront early and stay for dinner at one of the nearby restaurants offering seasonal menus and Scottsdazzle cocktails.
2. Christmas at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess
7575 E Princess Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
- Mid-November – Early January 2026
- Tickets start around $30 for adults; free for resort guests
The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess turns into a desert fairytale during the holidays, glowing with over 6 million lights and a magical mix of themed lands. Ride the Princess Express Train through glittering tunnels, roast marshmallows in S’mores Land, or glide across the outdoor ice rink beneath palm trees.
Kids can visit Santa’s workshop while adults unwind with a festive cocktail at the Ice Lounge or Bourbon Bar. The sheer scale of this display makes it a must-see even if you’re not a hotel guest.
Insider Tip: Book dinner at one of the resort’s signature restaurants (like La Hacienda or Toro Latin Restaurant & Rum Bar) to receive complimentary event parking.
3. Winter Wonderland Arizona
8414 E Valley Vista Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85250
- Nightly from 6-10pm Dec. 7th-Dec. 29th
- Admission varies by attraction
Winter Wonderland Arizona brings snow to the Sonoran Desert — literally. This pop-up experience features sledding hills, igloos, inflatables, and even artificial snowfalls. Families can snap photos with Santa, wander through themed zones, and take part in cookie decorating workshops.
It’s the ideal way to get a “White Christmas” feel without leaving the valley, especially for little ones who’ve never seen snow.
Insider Tip: Bring gloves and waterproof shoes — the snow areas get wet and slushy after midday sun.
4. Holiday Lights at the Railroad Park
7301 E Indian Bend Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85250
- Late November – Early January
- $15 per person (includes train and carousel ride)
There’s something timeless about the Holiday Lights at the Railroad Park, where families hop aboard a miniature train and ride through twinkling tunnels of light. The park is decked out in glowing displays — from candy canes and toy soldiers to Santa’s workshop — all synchronized to cheerful holiday music.
Children can visit Santa, sip cocoa, and explore model train villages inside the museum building. It’s one of Scottsdale’s most family-friendly traditions.
Insider Tip: Go right at sunset for shorter lines and gorgeous light photos before full dark.
5. Stroll in the Glow Festival
Avenue of the Fountains, Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
- First Saturday in December
- Free admission
Each December, Fountain Hills hosts the Stroll in the Glow Festival, turning the Avenue of the Fountains into a sparkling promenade lined with over 60,000 lights. Locals gather for live music, food trucks, and the ceremonial lighting of the Fountain Hills Christmas tree.
The festival has a charming, small-town warmth; think carolers, cocoa stands, and neighbors waving as kids dance under the fountain’s glow.
Insider Tip: Dress warmly; the air by the fountain gets chilly after dark.
6. Las Noches de las Luminarias at the Desert Botanical Garden
1201 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008
- Select nights in December (typically 5:30–9:30 PM)
- $40–$50 adults, $15–$25 kids
Few experiences are as breathtaking as Luminaria Nights at the Desert Botanical Garden. Thousands of flickering luminarias and twinkling lights line the cactus trails while live musicians fill the night with soft acoustic sounds.
The smell of desert sage mixes with hot cider and cocoa as guests wander through agave and saguaro silhouettes glowing under the stars.
Insider Tip: Arrive early to enjoy the desert sunset before the paths light up. Weekends sell out fast — grab tickets in advance.
7. ZooLights at the Phoenix Zoo
455 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008
- Mid-November – Early January
- $30–$35 adults, $25 kids; discounts for members
A beloved Arizona tradition, ZooLights transforms the Phoenix Zoo into a glowing menagerie of light sculptures and holiday joy. Expect millions of twinkling bulbs, animal-shaped lanterns, and interactive displays synced to music.
Families can take carousel rides, meet Santa, and stop for a snack under the glowing canopy near the lake.
Insider Tip: Go midweek for fewer crowds, and look for discounted “Value Nights” on the zoo’s website.
8. Diamond Dance Works 2025 Nutcracker
Cactus Shadows Fine Arts Center, 33606 N 60th St, Scottsdale, AZ 85266
- Saturday, November 22, 2025 – Performances at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM
- Tickets $20–$35; children age 2 and older require a ticket
A Scottsdale holiday favorite, Diamond Dance Works’ production of The Nutcracker brings beloved characters like Clara, the Mouse King, and the Sugar Plum Fairy to life in a performance filled with grace and community spirit. From the glittering costumes to the live orchestral score, it’s a local masterpiece that blends professional choreography with family tradition.
Every seat in the venue offers a great view, and the show’s shorter run time makes it perfect for families with young children.
Insider Tip: Purchase tickets early — this popular production often sells out quickly.
9. Illumination Symphony of Light
Tempe Diablo Stadium, 2200 W. Alameda Dr., Tempe, AZ 85282
- Late November – Early January
- Tickets per vehicle ($40–$50 average)
Experience a holiday spectacle unlike any other at the Illumination Symphony of Light, where millions of LED lights dance in perfect sync with festive music. Tune your car radio to the event’s holiday station and drive through glowing tunnels, shimmering snowflakes, and towering animated displays that sparkle to every beat.
The 30-minute route surrounds you with motion and color, creating a fully immersive light show your family can enjoy from the comfort of your car.
Insider Tip: Arrive early to avoid long lines, dim your dashboard lights for better visibility, and bring hot cocoa for the perfect drive-through experience.
10. The Official Christmas Bar Crawl – Scottsdale
Old Town Scottsdale – Multiple Venues
- Saturday, December 20, 2025 • 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Tickets available online only (group discounts available)
Join hundreds of merrymakers for The Official Christmas Bar Crawl, a citywide holiday celebration through Old Town Scottsdale. This spirited event includes five or more festive venues, each offering themed drinks, photo ops, and holiday décor.
Check in between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM to grab your event badge, lanyard, and (for the first 100 guests) a plush Santa hat. Enjoy 2–3 complimentary drinks or shots, exclusive specials, and no cover charges at any participating bars. The crawl features a Mid-Party (7:00–9:00 PM) and ends with a lively After Party (10:00 PM–12:00 AM) complete with DJs and dancing.
Giving Back: A portion of proceeds supports Toys for Tots, helping spread holiday cheer to children in need.
Insider Tip: Tickets sell out quickly—grab yours early, wear your most festive outfit, and plan a safe ride home after the party!
10. Meet Santa at The Old Town Farmer’s Market
Brown Avenue & 1st Street, Old Town Scottsdale
- Saturdays, November 30; December 7, 14, & 21 • 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Free admission
Get festive at the Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market with a special visit from Santa himself! Families can shop local vendors, enjoy seasonal treats, and stop by to meet Santa for a keepsake printed photo. With cheerful music, fresh produce, and handmade holiday gifts, it’s the perfect way to start a Saturday morning during Christmas in Scottsdale.
Insider Tip: Arrive early to beat the lines for Santa and grab a hot coffee from one of the local roasters while you browse the market stalls.
Where to Stay: HÓZHÓ Scottsdale
When it comes to accommodations, HÓZHÓ Scottsdale brings holiday luxury to life. Their private vacation homes combine the space and comfort of a residence with the five-star amenities of a resort. Each property is beautifully designed for relaxing and celebrating the season—featuring private pools, gourmet kitchens, fireplaces, and cozy outdoor lounges perfect for sipping cocoa beneath desert stars.
Located across Scottsdale’s most desirable neighborhoods—including Old Town, Cactus Corridor, and Paradise Valley—HÓZHÓ homes place you just minutes from the city’s best Christmas attractions like Scottsdazzle, the Fairmont Princess, and the Railroad Park Lights.
No matter who you’re traveling with—family, friends, or that special someone—HÓZHÓ offers a cozy and elegant home base for your Christmas escape amid Scottsdale’s stunning desert scenery.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
From ice skating under palm trees to strolling luminaria-lit garden paths, Scottsdale’s holiday season is filled with magic. After a day of exploring, return to your private HÓZHÓ retreat to unwind in style.
Ready to make your Scottsdale holiday unforgettable? Book your stay at HÓZHÓ Scottsdale and discover the perfect blend of comfort, style, and seasonal serenity.