Spend the weekend of Nov. 22 to Nov. 24 among family, friends and fun. From holiday displays to hockey games, these Valley events are prepared to spread the season’s cheer.
Lights at the Farm at Vertuccio Farms
Embark through 10 acres of gleaming lights that twinkle to classic Christmas tunes. After a stroll through the lights, guests can enjoy hot chocolate, snag a selfie with Santa, pose in giant ornaments or ice skate. Lights at the Farm will be open from 5:30 to 10:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 online or $12 at the gate.
“Elf the Musical” at Arizona Broadway Theatre
The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear! Join Arizona Broadway Theater for opening night of “Elf the Musical,” based on the Will Ferrell classic Christmas film, “Elf.” The performance begins at 7:30 p.m., and tickets can be purchased online.
Victoria T. Rex at Arizona Science Center
Travel back in time with the world’s largest traveling Tyrannosaurus Rex, Victoria. 66 million years ago, Victoria was hatched. In 2013, her remains were discovered in South Dakota. Since then, paleontologists have worked tirelessly to fully restore the T. Rex. She is now the second most complete T. Rex on record. Tickets for the exhibit are $11.95. Guests must also be in possession of a general admission ticket, ranging from $13 to $18.
Saturday
Annual ArtFest of Scottsdale at Old Town Scottdale’s Civic Center Plaza
This Saturday, a Scottsdale tradition returns. Over 120 artists will take over Old Town for the annual ArtFest. Local artists will display and sell their paintings, jewelry, sculptures, ceramics and more. While browsing, attendees can expect live music from Mother Road Trio, Ryan Biter, Holly Pyle and the Walt Richardson Band. There will also be a YMCA kids’ zone with face painting and games and food vendors such as Be Crepeful, Nuttylicious, Java Cakes and more. The event is free to attend and will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. To learn more, visit 888artfest.com.
The Day of the Dog Festival in Old Town Scottsdale
Fun the entire family can join in on—even fur babies. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Old Town will host the West Coast’s largest outdoor pet festival. Families can mingle as their pets sample treats and food, sniff out new toys, try on accessories and flaunt some free swag. The festival will also host activities humans and their four-legged friends can participate in alike. The event is free to attend. For more information, visit petapaloozawest.com.
Lights of the World at the Arizona State Fairgrounds
The largest lights and lantern festival in North America has returned. Located at the Arizona State Fairgrounds, Lights of the World is composed of 65 breathtaking displays meant to represent cultures around the world. In addition to ten million sparkling lights, guests can also enjoy life-like dinosaurs, carnival rides, a sea lion show, performances from the Puppetone Rockers and more. The display will be open from 5:30 to 10 p.m. For tickets and more information, visit phoenix.lightsoftheworldus.com.
Carnival of Illusion at Mesa Arts Center
The Carnival of Illusion is a unique and intimate vaudeville-inspired theater show full of mind-blowing magic. The carnival prides itself on old-school fun. There will be a 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. showtime. Grab you tickets here.
Sunday
Gilbert Days Rodeo at John Volken Academy Ranch
End the weekend rowdy. This Sunday, the John Volken Academy Ranch will host barrel-racing, bull-riding and much more. The gates open at 12 p.m. but performances will start at 2 p.m. Tickets range from $12 to $18 and can be purchased online or at the gate.
CitySkate Holiday Ice Rink at CityScape Phoenix
Phoenix’s notorious ice rink has returned. For the tenth year in a row, CitySkate is making it possible for locals to immerse themselves in a winter wonderland right in the heart of Phoenix. Guests can expect sparkling lights, Santa, hot chocolate and seasonal cheer. The ice will be open from 5 to 7:30 p.m. and 8 to 11 p.m. Tickets can be purchase on site for $15. To learn more, visit phxicerink.com.
Arizona Coyotes vs. Edmonton Oilers at Gila River Arena
Cheer on the coyotes as they take on the Edmonton Oilers at 6 p.m. The Coyotes will also be hosting a food drive benefiting St. Mary’s Food Bank and encourage all fans to bring along nonperishable food items. To purchase tickets, visit nhl.com/coyotes.
