The holidays are a unique time in Scottsdale. Whether you’re searching for family fun or looking to cozy up with that special someone, there are a plethora of possibilities for enjoying an exclusive experience in the Sonoran Desert this holiday season. We’ve rounded up our picks for what makes Scottsdale stand out during this wonderful time of year!
Great Holiday Events
Explore the breathtaking Sonoran Desert all by the glowing light of more than 8,000 hand-lit luminaries from Nov. 29 through Dec. 31 at the Desert Botanical Garden’s Las Noches de las Luminarias. Sip on hot chocolate from the Patio Café as you stroll the paths throughout the garden. Feel the holiday spirit as music from carolers, handbells, guitars and violins fills the air.
With advanced reservations, you can even dine at Gertrude’s, which stays open late for the event. And a trip to the Desert Botanical Garden is not complete without stopping by the Chihuly in the Garden exhibit, which returns to the garden from November 2013 through May 2014. Only during Las Noches de las Luminarias can you witness artist Dale Chihuly’s colorful glasswork reflected by thousands of white twinkle lights against the night sky.
Kids and the Zoo
Kids and kids at heart will be delighted as they wander through Zoo Lights at the Phoenix Zoo Nov. 28, 2013 through Jan. 12, 2014. As the sun begins to set and the furry and reptilian residents at the Phoenix Zoo start to snooze, the zoo transforms into a winter wonderland. Roam the complex beneath the shine of more than 3 million colorful twinkle lights and 500 custom-made animal and nature light sculptures. You’ll likely spot a sleepy orangutan, a wide-awake coyote and even Jengo the talking giraffe throughout the festivities.
Christmas Tree
Trim your Christmas tree this holiday season with hand-made ornaments from American Indian artists during Heard Museum’s Ornament Marketplace from Nov. 28 through Dec. 1. Return to the museum Dec. 26-31 for Holidays at the Heard, an annual Southwestern tradition. This event takes museum visitors on a journey through American Indian culture with exciting performances and artist demonstrations.
Christmas at the Princess
Literally rock around the musical Christmas tree at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess’ annual winter celebration Christmas at the Princess. At the Princess tree-lighting ceremony on Nov. 21, see 65,000 lights shine brightly on a four-story tree that plays 10 holiday favorite songs. The event, which runs through Jan.5, 2014, features a 5,400-square-foot ice skating rink, visits from Santa and his elves, musical performances, the Silver Saguaro Holiday Shoppe, and lots of yummy snacks and beverages to keep you warm. And the Spectacular Lagoon Lights that shine throughout the resort are truly magical.
Holidays in Scottsdale, AZ
