Christmas Markets Arizona 2024: Best Festive Experiences

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.