Your holiday season does not need to be spent somewhere covered in snow where you can barely get outside. Instead, come join us here in Scottsdale, where you will find crisp temps and sunny skies. Scottsdale is a top Arizona winter destination where you can find plenty of holiday festivities. The city and surrounding areas will also be hosting several unique events exclusive to the area. Here is how to add a little magic to your Christmas season right here with these holiday events in Scottsdale:
Zoo Lights
One of Phoenix’s most cherished holiday events will once again be returning this year with Zoo Lights. This is a long standing tradition where the Phoenix Zoo is covered in millions of holiday lights, providing you with a unique experience here in the evening. Guests will be able to walk through the illuminated pathways connected trails and animal habitats that are now a dazzling spectacle. This year’s festivities will include a brand-new light show that will feature never before seen visuals and incredible music synced up to the show. There will be s’mores pits where you can enjoy delicious smores and warm up in front of the fire. Grab a cup of hot cocoa to take with you during your evening stroll. You will also be able to enter the 200-foot-long illuminated light tunnel in your vehicle on special nights taking place November 10th through 12th and January 13th and 14th. Santa Claus will be on hand for pictures. This year’s Zoo Lights will take place November 27th through January 12th. Entry into Zoo Lights starts at $30 per person and is a separate ticket from regular zoo visits. If you have any sensory sensitive children in the family, consider taking them to the Sensory Friendly Zoo Lights night taking place on December 2nd that features smaller crowds and quieter music.
Holiday Lights at Railroad Park
Another great spot to view wonderful holiday lights is McCormick Ranch here in Scottsdale. They will feature their Holiday Lights even once again this year from November 29th through December 30th. This event is different than Zoo Lights, as you will be able to explore a winter wonderland that is part of McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park. The entire park will be lit up with thousands of holiday lights and wonderful displays. You will not want to miss a chance to board the Paradise & Pacific Railroad that will take you on a seasonal journey throughout the park. The McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park will be open during the day for free entry until 5:00 PM when Holiday Lights will begin. Guests are able to enter the park at designated times including 6:00 PM, 7:00 PM, or 8:00 PM. Your admission into the park include train and carousel rides, glow up mini golf, tour the Model Railroad Building, and more. Drinks and snacks will be available for purchase from Hartley’s General Store onsite. Tickets start at $15 per person with special weeknights available for only $10 per person. Don’t miss this Scottsdale exclusive event this holiday season!
Holiday Events in Scottsdale at World of illumination
Get ready for Arizona’s largest holiday light show by touring through World of Illumination. This has been named as a top holiday light show in the entire country and is returning once again to The Valley. You will have a choice of two different World of Illumination experiences. Rockin’ Christmas will be taking place in Glendale from November 16th through December 29th. Tempe will also be hosting the World of Illumination with Enchanted Safari from November 15th through December 29th. Each different venue will focus on their curated theme, offering a one of a kind experience. Regardless of what location you pick, you will a truly immersive drive through holiday light experience. Giant holiday displays are synchronized with holiday music providing with a visual experience like no other. 3D glasses are even provided to enjoy a unique perspective during certain parts of your drive. You will find over 500 different displays and over a million lights at each location for World of Illumination. You will remain comfortable and warm in your vehicle as you enjoy the drive through experience. Each year provides a new theme, so this will be your only chance to enjoy these two themes taking place in The Valley. Purchase your tickets today to reserve a spot in this highly desirable holiday event.
Scottsdale Is Ready for the Holidays
You will not find a more festive city than Scottsdale this holiday season. In addition to these events you will also be able to enjoy plenty of shopping at local malls and shops. Explore Old Town for holiday dining. Make sure to reserve one of our rentals in the area for the best stay in town.
