The holiday season brings an enchanting transformation to Scottsdale, Arizona, as the city glows with festive lights and captivating displays.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the magical illuminations around Scottsdale create a dazzling experience that is not to be missed. From grand light shows to charming neighborhood decorations, Scottsdale’s holiday lights are sure to bring joy and wonder to anyone looking to soak in the Christmas spirit.
This guide will take you through some of the best places to experience holiday illuminations around Scottsdale.
Scottsdazzle: Scottsdale’s Signature Holiday Light Experience
Scottsdazzle is Scottsdale’s month-long celebration of the holiday season, transforming Old Town Scottsdale into a radiant hub of festive fun. From the start of December until New Year’s Eve, Scottsdazzle brings a vibrant atmosphere to the city, with twinkling lights lining the streets, waterfront walkways, and charming shops.
Tree Lighting Ceremony
The annual tree lighting ceremony kicks off the festivities, marking the official start of Scottsdazzle. This event features live performances, entertainment for the whole family, and the lighting of a towering Christmas tree that sparkles at the heart of Old Town. The tree becomes a beacon of holiday joy, drawing visitors to take photos and enjoy the festive cheer.
Festive Light Displays Along the Waterfront
Strolling along the Scottsdale Waterfront during Scottsdazzle is like walking through a winter wonderland—Arizona-style. The waterfront is adorned with thousands of lights that reflect beautifully off the water. Along the Soleri Bridge, visitors can take in the colorful illuminations while enjoying holiday treats from nearby vendors. It’s the perfect setting for an evening walk filled with holiday magic.
Family-Friendly Events
Scottsdazzle is designed for all ages, with special events like the Canal Concert Series, where visitors can enjoy live music while surrounded by the glow of holiday lights. Santa’s Art Walk and the Sugar Plum Avenue display offer unique experiences for families to explore the holiday decorations while engaging in fun activities.
The Desert Botanical Garden’s Las Noches de las Luminarias
For a more serene and nature-inspired holiday experience, the Desert Botanical Garden hosts its iconic Las Noches de las Luminarias. This beloved tradition invites guests to wander through the garden’s desert trails, illuminated by over 8,000 hand-lit luminarias and twinkling lights.
Unique Desert Holiday Setting
The combination of the rugged desert landscape and the soft glow of luminarias creates an enchanting scene that is truly unique to Scottsdale. As you walk through the garden’s pathways, you’ll be surrounded by cacti, desert plants, and beautiful light displays, offering a peaceful escape into nature while celebrating the holidays.
Live Music and Performances
Adding to the atmosphere, Las Noches de las Luminarias features live music performances scattered throughout the garden. You can stop to enjoy acoustic guitar, holiday carols, or classical ensembles while soaking in the warm, glowing ambiance. This magical experience makes for a perfect evening out with family or a romantic holiday date night.
Christmas at the Princess: A Holiday Wonderland
The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess takes holiday celebrations to the next level with its extravagant Christmas at the Princess event. This stunning holiday display includes a glittering lagoon filled with twinkling lights, a towering Christmas tree, and sparkling decorations spread throughout the resort grounds.
Enchanting Light Shows and Rides
Visitors to Christmas at the Princess can enjoy light shows synchronized to holiday music, creating a festive spectacle that mesmerizes both kids and adults. The resort’s holiday train ride is another favorite, offering a scenic tour through the illuminated displays, transporting guests through a magical winter wonderland.
Family Attractions
Christmas at the Princess is packed with fun for the whole family. Beyond the lights, you’ll find activities like ice skating at the resort’s outdoor rink, a carousel, and visits with Santa Claus. It’s a perfect way to enjoy a holiday evening filled with laughter, lights, and unforgettable memories.
McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park Holiday Lights
McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park is transformed into a holiday haven each December, with its beloved Holiday Lights event. One of the highlights is the festive train ride that takes visitors on a journey through beautifully illuminated displays scattered throughout the park. The train ride is a must-do for families with children, as the park’s holiday cheer comes to life in the glowing decorations.
Interactive Light Displays
The park also features interactive light displays, adding an extra element of fun for kids. From twinkling tunnels to giant holiday ornaments, visitors can explore and engage with the festive lights as they make their way through the park. It’s a joyful experience that captivates visitors of all ages.
Special Holiday Events
In addition to the light displays, McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park often hosts special holiday-themed events. These may include visits with Santa, live entertainment, and seasonal treats. It’s an affordable and family-friendly outing that brings the holiday spirit to life in a charming, nostalgic setting.
Scottsdale’s Best Neighborhood Light Displays
For those who enjoy exploring local neighborhoods, Scottsdale has several areas where residents go all out with their holiday decorations. Neighborhoods like Gainey Ranch and McDowell Mountain Ranch are known for their impressive holiday light displays, where entire streets come together to create festive, glowing spectacles.
Holiday Lights Tours
If you want to make the most of your neighborhood light exploration, consider booking a guided or self-guided holiday lights tour. These tours take you through the best-decorated neighborhoods in Scottsdale, offering the chance to enjoy the festive spirit while learning about the local community’s holiday traditions.
Stay in Style with HÓZHÓ Scottsdale
At HÓZHÓ Scottsdale, we go the extra mile to ensure your holiday stay is filled with festive cheer. Our properties can be decorated for the holidays upon request, creating a cozy and festive environment for your getaway. From Christmas trees to twinkling lights, our homes are the perfect backdrop for celebrating the season in style.
Proximity to Scottsdale’s Best Light Displays
One of the best parts of staying at a HÓZHÓ Scottsdale property is the proximity to Scottsdale’s top holiday light attractions.
Don’t Miss the Best Christmas Lights in Scottsdale
Scottsdale is a holiday wonderland, filled with twinkling lights, festive displays, and joyful celebrations. You can explore Scottsdazzle’s lively atmosphere, stroll through the glowing Desert Botanical Garden, or enjoy a magical train ride at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park. Scottsdale’s Christmas lights offer a magical experience for everyone. Book your stay at a HÓZHÓ Scottsdale property and enjoy the perfect holiday escape, surrounded by the best festive illuminations the city has to offer. Let the magic of the season begin!