Celebrate the magic of Christmas at Dream City Church’s annual Broadway-style holiday show, shop local gifts and goodies at the Phoenix Festival of the Arts, admire fluorescent light shows and neon-colored boats at Tempe’s Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade, or embrace Arizona’s brisk, winter weather and connect with fellow nature lovers over a drink at the Peaks and Pints Beer Hike. No matter your idea of fun, the Valley has everything and more for you to do this weekend, Dec. 7 through Dec. 9.

 

Friday

 

 

Phoenix Festival of the Arts

More than 150 art and food vendors are set to make an appearance at this darling shopping event. At the heart of the festival is the Phoenix Mural Project, which is a hands-on community art project that was organized by Hugo Medina. The project will invite attendees to paint, sketch and create alongside professional local artists. For more information on this free and unique event, click here.

 

Arizona Gift Fair at The Farm at South Mountain

Local artisans and vendors join forces at this fun, community-inspired shopping event. And if you’re looking to get ahead on your holiday shopping and grab some unique, one-of-a-kind gifts for your loved ones, you can definitely find it at the Arizona Gift Fair at The Farm at South Mountain. The event is free and is open from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information on this event, click here.

 

Saturday

 

 

12k’s of Christmas

Recognized by Runners World as one of the “Top 10 Races for the Whole Family” and “Top 11 Races to Run with Your Doggie,” the 12k’s of Christmas is the perfect event for those looking to get active this holiday season. Runners and walkers are encouraged to dress up – let it be in a Santa suit, as an elf or even reindeer attire for your furry friends. For more information on this event, click here.

 

 

Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade

The Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade is an event like no other. Magical and jaw-dropping floats that are decked out in holiday décor quite literally float along Tempe Town Lake. With over 50 festively-decorated boats expected to make an appearance at the parade, this is truly a can’t-miss, free event. For more information on this event, click here.

 

World Bazaar PHX

World Bazaar PHX celebrates the diversity of the Valley in this unique and festive community event. The festival highlights the cuisines and practices of more than a dozen different cultures. Attendees can enjoy vendors that will be selling everything from delicacy dishes to handcrafted jewelry pieces, along with live music and dance performances that are from Africa, Asia and Latin America. For more information on this free event, click here.

 

 

Peaks and Pints Beer Hike

What better way to bring people together than through hiking and beer? Embark on an adventurous hike throughout the barren, Arizona landscapes in the morning and then join your new friends for a well-deserved drink at the Twisted Lizard Tavern & Grille in the afternoon. Admission prices for this all-day excursion are $55. For more information on this event, click here.

 

Sunday

 

 

Mesa Arts Festival

This annual festival will return to the city of Mesa this weekend and will be bigger and better than ever before! Admire the original works and creations of local, regional and even national artists – with many of the pieces available for purchase. For more information on this fun event, click here.

 

Pueblo Grande Museum Auxiliary Indian Market

The beauty of the American Indian culture comes to life at this community event. Browse American Indian art, listen to the histories of the people and taste authentic cuisine at the Pueblo Grande Museum Auxiliary Indian Market. Admission tickets start at $5, and the market will take place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information on this event, click here.

 

Holiday Nights in Lights at The Wigwam

The Valley-favorite Wigwam Resort transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, with weekly activities and events that the entire family can enjoy. Hop aboard a train ride through a holiday-lit path, dance to live music from local bands, pose for a photo-op with Saint Nick himself, and indulge in tasty treats made fresh from the kitchens at the resort. For more information on this event, click here.

 

 

Celebration of Christmas at Dream City Church

Believe it or not, you can actually experience a Broadway-style musical theater performance right in Cave Creek. The Celebration of Christmas show at Dream City Church has dazzled attendees with inspiring stories, fresh music, live animals and remarkable special effects for years. This family-friendly event is the perfect blend of entertainment and festive fun that is enjoyable for audiences of all ages. Showtimes and ticket prices vary by day, so be sure to visit their official website for additional details. For more information on this event, click here.