Savor the season’s sweater weather with experiences unique to December. From ice skating to holiday light shows, the weekend of Dec. 6 to Dec. 8 is filled with celebratory fun.
Friday
Christmas at Schnepf Farms, a World of Illumination
Schnepf Farms and a World of Illumination are providing locals with an unforgettable Christmas. Already a hub for the holidays, Schnepf Farms has transformed into an enchanting winter wonderland. Guests can expect ice skating, delectable holiday treats, visits with Saint Nick, marshmallow roasting, snow-glow mini golf, a magical ride on the Illumination Express and much more. The experience will be open from 5:30 to 10 p.m. and is $17 to $30 to attend. To learn more, visit schnepfchristmas.com.
“A Winnie-the-Pooh Christmas Tail” at Valley Youth Theatre
Join Valley Youth Theatre for their 24th “A Winnie-the Pooh Christmas Tail.” Attendees will accompany Winne-the-Pooh and Piglet as they venture to find Eeyore’s lost tail on Christmas Eve. The production will begin at 7 p.m. and is $20 to attend. Purchase your tickets here.
F.Q. Story Historic Home Tour and Street Fair in Central Phoenix
Learn more about the heart of the Valley with a tour of nine specially selected historic homes in Central Phoenix. The tour will take place from 6 to 9 p.m. and is located from 7th Avenue to 15th Avenue on Roosevelt and Portland Streets, and from 11th avenue to 15th avenue on Latham Street. Guests can sip hot cocoa, enjoy carolers and grab a quick bite at the 50’s Diner Food Truck while walking a path lit with luminarias. Tickets are $20 onsite and $15 online.
Saturday
Christmas at the Princess
The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess is celebrating its 10th annual Christmas at the Princess. The resort grants guests an unforgettable experience with a nearly four-story Christmas tree, 6,000-sq.-ft. ice skating rink, Princess Express train rides, S’mores Land rides, a stop at Santa’s Secret Headquarters and much more. Admission to the event is complimentary to hotel guests and $55 per six wristbands for non-hotel guests.
Pajama Party at Chandler Fashion Center
From 9 to 10 a.m., Santa’s elves, Jack and Strawberry, are throwing a pajama party in the lower level Macy’s court at Chandler Fashion Center. The party will be complete with story time, milk and cookies and holiday crafts. After the party, stick around for a chance to explore Santa’s headquarters where children can check their standing on the naughty-or-nice list, use elf-ray vision to explore Santa’s workshop and even visit with Saint Nick himself.
Festival of Tales at Paradise Valley Community College
Festival of Tales is a day for children to celebrate reading, literacy and diversity. For the ninth year in a row, Paradise Valley Community College will throw a free literacy party complete with storytelling, arts and crafts, games, face painting, live music, free books, food trucks and more. The event will take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. To learn more, visit paradisevalley.edu.
“Ella Enchanted: The Musical” at Herberger Theatre Center
At birth, Ella’s fairy godmother “gifted” her with unwavering obedience. Follow the modern-day princess as she attempts to evade her wicked stepsisters and hungry ogre of a stepmother to find her own voice and live happily ever after. The musical begins at 4 p.m. Purchase your tickets here.
Sunday
“Home Alone” in Concert at Symphony Hall
What would Christmas be without Kevin McCallister? At 2 p.m., the Phoenix Symphony will accompany the magnificent McCallister. “Home Alone” will play on a large screen as the orchestra recreates John Williams’ popular score. Tickets range from $40 to $108 and can be purchased online.
The Nutcracker at Chandler Center for the Arts
Join Clara for a journey filled with oversized mice, fanciful dancing, whirling snowflakes and the Sugar Plum Fairy! Ballet Etudes 33rd production of “The Nutcracker” will include Tchaikovsky's original score and unforgettably stunning costumes. Tickets can be purchased prior to the 3 p.m. performance online.
World of Illumination at Westgate Shopping Center
World of Illumination is the world’s largest drive-through holiday light show. Visitors will drive through over two million LED lights that have been synchronized to sparkle to the tune of classic Christmas songs. The unique and exclusive experience will be open from 6 to 11 p.m. Tickets are $32.99 per vehicle online or $40 per vehicle onsite.
