Families will find tons of activities to help them celebrate the holidays in a uniquely southwestern style. Many take advantage of the beautiful winter weather for which Arizona is famous. Enjoy some sunshine and get in the holiday spirit with these activities:
Hiking
The Phoenix area is surrounded by mountain ranges, and hiking opportunities abound. The weather is ideal for hiking in the winter months, so get out there and enjoy the gorgeous desert scenery. Here are some popular hiking areas:
- Superstition Mountains
- Camelback Mountain
- South Mountain
For a comprehensive list of hiking trails in Phoenix and the surrounding areas, visit Arizona Hiking Trails.
ZooLights
The Phoenix Zoo presents a stunning display of holiday lights every year, featuring over 2.5 million lights and over 400 light sculptures of animals. Music, light shows, and camel rides are just a few of the attractions at this very popular holiday event.
Nov. 27, 2008 through Jan. 10, 2009, 6-10p.m. nightly
Snow Sports
Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and all snow sports in the Arizona mountains. Only a few hours from Phoenix, the high elevations of Arizona offer an entirely different experience than Christmas in the Valley of the Sun. Pine forests and snow drifts abound, and Arizona residents and visitors alike can enjoy true winter weather—then travel back to the valley for sunshine. For skiing in Arizona, try:
Sunrise Ski Resort in the White Mountains
Snowbowl Ski Resort outside of Flagstaff
Botanical Gardens
The Phoenix Desert Botanical Gardens presents its annual holiday light show, featuring thousands of flickering luminarias, farolitos, and live music. Experience Christmas with truly unique southwestern flair.November 28 – 30, 11 - 14, and 16- 23, 2008 for the general public
December 4 – 7, 2008 for Garden Members and their guests
Hours: 5:30 – 9:30p.m.
Polar Express Grand Canyon Railroad
The Grand Canyon Scenic Railroad offers Polar Express themed train rides throughout the holiday season. Cocoa and cookies are served, Christmas carols are lead by cheerful elves, and Santa appears on the train to give each child a silver bell keepsake. This event creates memories that will be cherished by children and parents alike. Book seats early; the tickets sell out quickly every season.
Christmas Lights at Mormon church
The Mesa Arizona Temple of the Mormon Church of Latter Day Saints presents a stunning holiday light display each year. Thousands of Christmas lights and live music dazzle visitors of all faiths during this free holiday event. Concerts are presented at 7p.m. each night.
Mesa Arizona Temple
101 South LeSueur Street
Mesa, AZ 85205
Related Resources
After enjoying holiday activities, families may want to take advantage of inexpensive but delicious dining options.
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