The holiday season is upon us, and for most of us Arizonans, that means it’s time to emerge from our usually air-conditioned homes and start enjoying the nice weather! While those of you up North might be bundling up, there’s still plenty of “holiday happenings” going on this month–yes, even in the cold north!
We know this season can get stressful with all the extra money you’re spending. That’s why we’ve pulled together a list of free holiday events taking place around Arizona so you can spend some time with friends and family without spending money. Check them out below!
Free Holiday Events in the East Valley
- Scottsdazzle– Scottsdale
Through January 1
Enjoy the beauty of one of Arizona’s largest Christmas trees, go through the Spy Santa Art Walk and shop unique vendors. - 3D Holiday Paintingscaping Light Show– Phoenix
Through December 31
See a resort hotel come alive with an incredible 3D virtual paintings across the building. - Mesa Temple Lights– Mesa
Through December 31
Walk through a dazzling display of Christmas lights and enjoy free concerts held most nights. - CitySkate Ice Rink– Downtown Phoenix
Through January 8
Head to CityScape for free ice skating in the desert. - Family Flicks– Chandler
December 22 at 6 p.m.
Get pictures with Santa, enjoy free hot cocoa and watch the movie “Elf” in the park. - Swim With Santa–Tempe
December 26 & 27
You read that right. Head to the recreational center to swim indoors with Santa.
Free Holiday Events in the West Valley
- Glendale Glitters–Glendale
Weekends through January 7
Community events happening each weekend to enjoy with friends or family. - Christmas in the Park– Litchfield
December 10 at 9 a.m.
Enjoy an entire day of fun at Litchfield park with crafts, a parade, pictures with Santa, live entertainment and real snow! - Parade of Lights– Wickenburg
December 9 at 6:30 p.m.
Over 30 floats are headed down Wickenburg Way! Enjoy a fun community parade to get you in a festive mood.
Free Holiday Events in Southern Arizona
- Fourth Avenue Winter Street Fair– Tucson
December 9–11
Tour unique vendor booths to find that perfect holiday gift. - Annual Downtown Parade of Lights– Tucson
December 17 at 6:30 p.m.
Watch the night sky light up with Tucson’s annual parade of lights! - Old World Santa Display– Sierra Vista
Through December 25
Explore an incredible display of hand-painted old-world Santa figurines from multiple cultures. - Toy Run– Nogales
December 17 at 11 a.m.
Help provide toys for kids this Christmas by participating in the Nogales Toy Run.
Free Holiday Events in Northern Arizona
- Santa and the Shoppes– Show Low
December 9–10
Come see holiday decorations and shop local, unique vendors. - Red Rock Fantasy–Sedona
Through December 31
See the famous red rocks light up for the holidays. Free trolley rides are available on the weekends. - Holiday Movie Screenings– Sedona
December 16& 23
Holiday movies will be screening for free in Sedona’s theatre. Enjoy a movie night with someone you care about. - Stocking Stuffer Bazaar– Prescott
December 17 at 10 a.m.
Help families in need by participating in this stocking stuffer event. It’s a great way to volunteer while having fun! - Festival of Lights– Globe
December 18 at 5 p.m.
Enjoy a beautiful display of luminarias on historic ruins. Native American storytellers, dancers and a Santa will be there. - New Year’s Pinecone Drop– Flagstaff
December 31 at 10 p.m.
Ring in the new year with Arizona’s famous pinecone drop in Flagstaff!
Free Holiday Events Elsewhere
- 21st Annual Festive of Lights– Lake Havasu City
Through January 1, 6 – 10 p.m.
See a gorgeous display of 500,000 holiday lights throughout the English Village. - Ice Skating at the London Bridge– Lake Havasu City
Through December 31
It’s the original London Bridge, and you can skate there for free through the end of the year! - Stuff the Bus Food Drive– Yuma
Through December 30
Help provide food for those in need by volunteering at this fun event. - Santa’s Annual Visit– Kingman
December 24 at 6 p.m.
Enjoy a free visit from Santa! You may even get a surprise gift from him.
- What holiday events do you plan to attend? Share with us in the comments below!
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