Christmas Markets Arizona 2024: Best Festive Experiences

As the holiday season approaches, excitement builds for the annual Christmas markets in Arizona. These festive events are perfect places to find unique gifts, enjoy seasonal treats, and soak in the joyful atmosphere.

You can look forward to a variety of markets offering everything from handcrafted ornaments to delicious food. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these markets are sure to add a sprinkle of magic to your holiday celebrations.

1) Prescott’s Courthouse Plaza

When you think about holiday cheer in Arizona, Prescott’s Courthouse Plaza should come to mind. This charming spot is located in the heart of downtown Prescott, known as Arizona’s Christmas City.

Each year, the plaza transforms into a winter wonderland adorned with dazzling Christmas lights and festive decorations.

The Annual Prescott Courthouse Lighting is a must-see event. It takes place on the north side of the courthouse and includes live music starting at 5 PM, leading up to the lighting ceremony. This event is perfect for families and friends looking to soak in the holiday spirit.

Besides the lighting ceremony, Prescott’s Courthouse Plaza hosts the Christmas Village & ChristkindlMarket. This market offers German-style food, a Bier Garten with beer and hot mulled wine, and unique holiday gifts.

Scheduled from December 15 to December 17, it’s a delightful place to find festive treats and enjoy holiday entertainment.

Whether you’re looking to experience the vibrant light displays or shop at the holiday market, Prescott’s Courthouse Plaza offers something special for everyone. It’s a great way to get into the holiday spirit and make lasting memories with your loved ones.

Market	Dates	Address	Times	Prices
Christmas Village & ChristkindlMarket	Dec 15-17, 2024	Downtown Prescott	Fri: 4 PM – 8 PM Sat: 11 AM – 8 PM Sun: 11 AM – 8 PM	Free
Courthouse Lighting	Dec 7, 2024	Downtown Prescott	Starts at 5 PM	Free

2) CitySkate Ice Rink in Phoenix

CitySkate Ice Rink is a must-visit holiday spot in Phoenix during Christmas. Located in the heart of Downtown at CityScape, it’s the perfect place to enjoy festive fun with family and friends.

Expect a magical atmosphere with glittering lights and festive décor. The rink features real ice, bringing a classic winter experience to the desert.

Remember to check the CitySkate website for session times. The rink operates in 90-minute sessions, giving you plenty of time to skate and enjoy the ambiance.

You can also visit Patriots Park, located at 11 W. Washington St., to get a feel of the vibrant surroundings. You’re bound to have a memorable time whether you’re an experienced skater or a beginner.

Details

Market	Dates	Address	Times	Prices
CitySkate	Nov 24 – Jan 1	11 W. Washington St.	Varied sessions	$20 adults, $13 children under 8

3) Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Village

Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Village is one of the top destinations in Sedona. This picturesque area feels like a step back in time. With its Spanish-style architecture, it is a pleasure just to stroll through.

You will find a variety of unique shops and galleries. Many vendors offer handmade goods and local crafts. This makes it a great place to find special holiday gifts.

During the holiday season, Tlaquepaque lights up. The decorations and festive atmosphere are delightful and give you a true Christmas spirit. You can enjoy shopping while soaking in the holiday cheer.

In addition to shopping, you can enjoy a meal at one of the charming restaurants. There are choices ranging from Mexican to French cuisine, and even an on-site brewery. Tlaquepaque offers something for everyone.

Besides, the venue frequently hosts cultural events that might include live music or art shows. It’s an engaging place for both locals and visitors to experience the arts.

Date	Address	Times	Prices
Dec 1-31	336 AZ-179, Sedona, AZ 86336	10:00 AM – 5:00 PM	Free Entry

4) Sedona’s Red Rock Fantasy

Sedona’s Red Rock Fantasy is a can’t-miss experience for visitors and locals alike. Every Thanksgiving week, Los Abrigados Resort transforms into a holiday wonderland, bringing families together to kick off the season.

You’ll witness families setting up spectacular Christmas displays, lighting up the night with festive joy. The event is held at Los Abrigados Resort and features brilliant decorations, holiday lights, and a warm, festive atmosphere.

Your kids will love it. The displays are enchanting and perfect for getting everyone in the holiday spirit. Make sure to bring your camera, because the photo ops are fantastic.

Whether it’s a tradition or your first time, Red Rock Fantasy offers a cozy, heartwarming experience in the gorgeous backdrop of Sedona’s red rocks. Enjoy the displays, admire the creativity, and let the holiday magic wash over you.

Dates	Address	Times	Prices
Nov 28-Dec 1, 2024	160 Portal Ln, Sedona, AZ 86336	Dusk to 10 PM	Free

5) Gilbert’s Water Tower Plaza

Gilbert’s Water Tower Plaza transforms into a magical holiday scene during the Christmas season. Located at 45 W Page Avenue, this historic landmark’s annual lighting event draws families and visitors from all over.

The Gilbert Water Tower stands 230 feet tall and is a symbol of the town’s rich history. It was built in 1925 and originally served as a water pump for the community. The area around it is now a vibrant plaza that hosts various events.

During Christmas, the plaza becomes a festive wonderland with lights, live music, and food stalls. The event includes family activities such as writing letters to Santa and enjoying holiday treats. It’s an experience that brings the whole community together.

Due to renovations from December 1, 2023, through October 31, 2024, some events might be affected. However, the excitement around the Water Tower Plaza remains high, making it a must-visit during the holiday season.

Market	Dates	Address	Times	Prices
Agritopia Farm Store	December 2024 (TBD)	Gilbert, AZ	Varies	Free
Butcher Block Meats	December 2024 (TBD)	Gilbert, AZ	Varies	Varies
Merry Main Street	December 2024 (TBD)	Gilbert, AZ	Evening Events	Free
Phoestivus	December 2024 (TBD)	Gilbert, AZ	Evening Events	Free
Queen Creek Botanical Gardens	December 2024 (TBD)	Gilbert, AZ	Varies	Admission Fee

6) Glendale Glitters

Glendale Glitters is back for its 30th anniversary. It’s happening in Historic Downtown Glendale, Arizona, transforming Murphy Park into a winter wonderland. From November 24 to January 1, you can catch nightly light displays.

You’ll see a gigantic snowman and a 30-foot Christmas tree with dancing lights and music. It’s a perfect place to get that holiday feeling with friends and family.

On November 24 and 25, special events will mark the anniversary. From 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., you can enjoy the lights and festive decorations.

There are also many free holiday events scheduled throughout the six-week celebration. A great way to spend your winter evenings.

Event Details

Market	Dates	Address	Times	Prices
Glendale Glitters	Nov 24, 2023 – Jan 1, 2024	Historic Downtown Glendale, AZ	5 PM – 10 PM daily	Free

7) Chandler’s Tumbleweed Tree

If you’re looking for a unique Christmas experience in Arizona, you’ve got to check out Chandler’s Tumbleweed Tree. This isn’t your typical evergreen.

Since the late 1950s, Chandler has celebrated the holidays by creating a giant Christmas tree made entirely of tumbleweeds.

The Tumbleweed Tree stands 35 feet tall and is constructed from around 2,000 tumbleweeds. It’s not just about the tumbleweeds, though.

The tree is covered with 25 gallons of paint and 65 pounds of glitter, making it sparkle under the Arizona sky.

Every first Saturday evening in December, the Tumbleweed Tree comes to life with a lighting ceremony. This event draws crowds from near and far, eager to see the tree light up and to participate in the festive activities.

In addition to the tree lighting, there’s also the Parade of Lights. This parade features decorated vehicles, floats, and even Santa Claus himself.

Your family can enjoy food, music, and lots of holiday cheer.

If you’re interested in the history of this quirky tradition, the Chandler Museum hosts an exhibit exploring the 60+ years of the Tumbleweed Tree.

You’ll learn about the origins of this unique celebration and see how it has evolved over the years.

Make sure to joyfully mark your calendar!

Event	Date	Address	Time	Price
Chandler’s Tumbleweed Tree Lighting	Dec. 2, 2023	Downtown Chandler	4:30 PM	Free
Chandler Museum Exhibit	Nov. 1, 2023 – Jan. 7, 2024	Chandler Museum	Varies	Free

8) Christmas at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess

Feel the magic this holiday season at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. This Five Diamond resort transforms into a stunning winter wonderland.

Walk through millions of twinkling lights and enchanting displays. You’ll find it hard to resist the charm of the glittering Christmas tree and festive music.

For the young and the young at heart, there’s ice skating, a Build-A-Bear workshop, and even a chance to meet Santa.

Your kids will love exploring the Christmas Village and riding the Princess Express Train.

After hours of fun, you can relax at Ironwood American Kitchen. They offer diverse food options, no reservations needed.

This is a great spot to warm up with homemade hot chocolate.

Families on a budget will appreciate the variety of affordable dining options.

The Christmas experience is open to both guests and the public. It remains a cherished tradition for locals and visitors alike.

Don’t miss the chance to create unforgettable memories this year.

Markets	Dates	Address	Times	Prices
Christmas at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess	Nov 24, 2024 – Jan 5, 2025	7575 East Princess Drive, Scottsdale, Arizona 85255	Various	Varies

9) ZooLights at Phoenix Zoo

ZooLights at Phoenix Zoo is a can’t-miss event during the Christmas season in Arizona. The entire zoo transforms into a spectacular display with nearly four million lights.

You’ll see beautifully lit trees, animal-shaped lanterns, and even the tallest floating tree in North America.

This magical wonderland is perfect for families. The illuminated Wildlife Lanterns showcase animals in stunning designs.

It’s a beautiful, enchanting experience that brings the holiday spirit to life. Walking through the zoo at night feels like stepping into a fairytale.

The event runs from November 22, 2023, to January 14, 2024. You can visit from 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM.

Tickets are available online and at the gate. Advance online tickets cost $30, or $25 if you’re a zoo member.

This is a great way to enjoy the holidays with loved ones.

Dates	Address	Times	Prices
November 22, 2023 – January 14, 2024	455 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008	5:30 PM – 10:30 PM	$30 ($25 for members)

10) North Pole Experience in Flagstaff

The North Pole Experience in Flagstaff is a magical holiday destination. You’ll find it inside Santa’s enchanting 400-year-old workshop.

It’s not just any workshop; it’s where Christmas dreams come true.

Visitors can tour the toy factory, where you’ll see elves hard at work making toys. There’s also Mrs. Claus’ Bakery, perfect for those with a sweet tooth.

You can even attend Elf University, where you can learn what it takes to be one of Santa’s helpers.

Santa’s Sleigh Hanger is another highlight. Here, you’ll see Santa’s sleigh being prepared for its big night.

The tour also includes time for family photos with Santa himself, a memory you’ll cherish forever.

The adventure begins at the Little America Hotel. This hotel is decorated with over a million Christmas lights, creating a festive atmosphere.

From there, a magical trolley will take you to the North Pole.

It’s an experience unlike any other in the United States. The entire tour lasts about 1-2 hours, giving you plenty of time to soak in the holiday spirit without feeling rushed.

Dates	Address	Times	Prices
Nov 2024 – Jan 2025	2515 E Butler Ave, Flagstaff, AZ 86004	8 AM – 10 PM (vary)	Check website

Visit the North Pole Experience for more details.