It’s officially here: the final weekend before Christmas! If you’re like us, you might still be cramming in some last-minute shopping or picking up all of the necessary ingredients to perfect your flavorful holiday spread. But that doesn’t mean you can’t get out on the town and soak up some of the final moments of this holiday season with the ones you love. Lucky for you, we’ve compiled a few of the most festive and fun events that are taking over the Valley this weekend, Dec. 21 through Dec. 23.

 

 

Friday

 

 

DRUMLine Live Holiday Spectacular

The DRUMLine Live Holiday Spectacular is returning once again this holiday season, following an unforgettable, sold-out performance last year. The show at Chandler Center for the Arts takes attendees on an invigorating, musical experience that combines modern sounds with classical holiday tunes. The performance begins at 7:30 p.m. and admission tickets range from $38 to $48. For more information on this free event, click here.

 

Home for the Holidays with James D. Gish

Phoenix Theatre’s own James D. Gish, who is most famous around the Valley for his unforgettable performance as the leading man in local performances of West Side Story, leads this Home for the Holidays show-stopping spectacular with charm and a timeless voice that has helped gain him a reputation as being the “modern-day Bocelli.” This cabaret show will feature classic, holiday hits in a cozy setting. Admission tickets range from $41 to $76. For more information on this event, click here.

 

Merry Main St. in Downtown Mesa

A lush towering Christmas tree, an ice skating rink just outside City Plaza, food truck forests, free photo-ops with Santa and even more fun, festive treasures await all those who visit Downtown Mesa this holiday season. The experience is open to the public and will continue through Jan. 4. For more information on this event, click here.

 

Saturday

 

 

Photo courtesy of Nathan Dumlao on Unsplash.

Scottsdazzle Java Jingle Crawl

This new Scottsdazzle event is a dream come true for coffee lovers. If you’re looking to get a taste of Scottsdale and the Valley’s booming coffee scene, this Java Jingle Crawl is perfect for you. The crawl features tasting stops and individual shopping experiences at several locally-owned coffee shops in Old Town. Those wishing to take part in this experience must pre-register through the website; registration is free. For more information on this event, click here.

 

 

Yule Ball at The Van Buren

Calling all witches, wizards and muggles! This mystical, holiday spectacular invites all to celebrate the holidays, Hogwarts-style. For one night, the Van Buren will transform into the Great Hall and will feature an evening of themed signature drinks and food, music, trivia and even a costume contest. So, pull out your broomsticks, don your best dress robes and gear up for a night of Butterbeer and wizarding fun. For more information on this event, click here.

 

Jurassic Winter Wonderland

Who knew that dinosaurs and Christmas could go together so well? At Odysea in the Desert, the Pangaea Land of Dinosaurs experience is getting a festive makeover. Stop by this illuminating showcase to join in on the holiday fun and to learn about the magical history of some of the Earth’s first inhabitants – dinosaurs. Ticket prices range from $10 to $17.95. For more information on this free event, click here.

 

Las Noches de Las Luminarias

Las Noches de Las Luminarias is a Southwestern holiday tradition at the Desert Botanical Garden. It’s also a great experience for those who loved the magic and wonder of the Electric Desert lights experience at the garden. Each evening, thousands of hand-lit luminaria bags will grace the night sky. Ticket prices range from $29.95 to $39.95. For more information on this event, click here.

 

Breakfast with Santa at Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak

What better way to get in the holiday spirit than by brunching with Saint Nick himself? At the Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak, all are invited to join in on the festive fun by enjoying a delicious buffet, cookie-decorating stations and, of course, photos-ops with Santa Claus himself. Reservations are required and admission ticket prices are $35.95 for adults and $21.95 for kids. For more information on this flavorful event, click here.

 

Sunday

 

Elf: The Musical at Phoenix Theatre

One of the most beloved, modern Christmas flicks of all time takes the stage – in the form of a musical – at the Phoenix Theatre. Prepare yourself for a magical and music-inspired journey, as Buddy the Elf ventures from the North Pole to New York City in search of family and purpose. Showtimes and ticket prices vary. For more information on this event, click here.

 

The Nutcracker by Arizona Youth Ballet

The timeless holiday classic, The Nutcracker, comes to life through dazzling performances from dancers at the Arizona Youth Ballet. Performance times vary. Admission tickets range from $15 to $20. For more information on this event, click here.