From a unique gem and mineral show to dinner at one of the Valley's most beloved (and soon-to-close) restaurants, get out and about in the Valley during the weekend of Jan. 5 through Jan. 7.
FRIDAY
Christopher’s & Crush at Biltmore Fashion Park
Get your reservations in now: Christopher Gross shutters his local eateries Christopher’s & Crush at Biltmore Fashion Park on Jan. 27 before bringing his team and French-American cuisine to Geordie’s at Wrigley Mansion. Chef Gross and his team mark the end of their successful run at the Phoenix location with special offers and events at Christopher’s & Crush through Jan. 27.
Red Carpet Box at Sprinkles
Sprinkles Cupcakes is celebrating the Golden Globes 2018 (airs Sunday night!) with the Red Carpet Box. Each box includes Red Velvet, Black & White and Vanilla cupcakes with a gold star and bow tie toppers and is available now through Jan. 31.
CitySkate
It’s the last weekend to enjoy CitySkate at CityScape Phoenix. Visit the Valley’s largest and most visited outdoor holiday ice rink on Friday, Saturday or Sunday to soak up the last bit of the holiday season. Ticket prices vary.
Pompeii: The Exhibition
Arizona Science Center’s Pompeii: The Exhibition examines life in Pompeii both before and after the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius. This promises to be one of the most significant and immersive international exhibitions to fill the Science Center’s Sybil B. Harrington Galleries. More than 200 precious artifacts on loan from the unparalleled collection of the Naples National Archaeological Museum in Italy, including wall-sized frescoes, mosaics, marble and bronze sculptures, jewelry, statues and ancient Roman coins. (Parental discretion is advised for some areas of the exhibit.)
SATURDAY
46th Annual Flagg Gem and Mineral Show
The largest gem and mineral show in the Valley with free admission and parking takes place at Mesa Community College from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. all weekend long More than 100 vendors at the 46th Annual Flagg Gem and Mineral Show will be offering beads, fossils, gems, jewelry, minerals, rocks and more. Plus, there will be great activities designed for kids and food vendors.
ZooLights at Phoenix Zoo
Each year, the Phoenix Zoo puts up an amazing holiday display of lights that is fun for the entire family. ZooLights is open in the evenings for about six weeks during the holiday season, beginning late November, from 5:30 to 10:30 p.m., and continuing through Jan. 14. Purchase your tickets here.
Skate Westgate
Come out to Westgate in Glendale this weekend to enjoy a magical night skating under the stars. All skill levels are welcome and price is set at $15—which includes skate rental.
McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park Holiday Lights
It’s the last weekend to take a ride on the Paradise & Pacific Railroad through a winter wonderland of lights and displays at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park Holiday Lights showcase in Scottsdale. Tickets for the Holiday Lights train ride are $5 for anyone 3 years old and older. Children 2 years old and younger can ride both the train and carousel free with a paying adult. Tickets for the Charros Carousel are $2. There will be a limited number of fast passes available for each evening of Holiday Lights and are available online.
SUNDAY
The Art of Ice Cream Experience
An Instagrammer's dream, The Art of Ice Cream Experience pop-up exhibit is found on Craftsman Court, just north of 3rd Avenue, in Scottsdale. Ice cream lovers are invited to enjoy themed rooms and tasty samples during this delicious voyage for all five senses. The Art of Ice Cream Experience is around through the end of February and will run daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Guests can choose their arrival time and will have approximately 60 minutes to explore.) Ticket prices vary.
Illumination: Symphony of Light
Illumination: Symphony of Light is Arizona’s largest holiday drive-thru light show and available to enjoy through Jan. 14. During the mile-long drive, you will experience millions of holiday lights synchronized to your favorite holiday music. End your journey by entering Holiday Boulevard by parking your car; this park/eat/play area features bounce houses, food trucks, selfie stations and other holiday, memory-making experiences. The attraction is located off of the service road at I-17 and Jomax Road, just minutes north of the Loop 101. Cost is $29.50-plus per car.