Friday:

Sedona Northern Lights

Sedona's massive holiday light show, Sedona Northern Lights, is back for its second year, Dec. 13 to Dec. 16. It is touted as the country's largest 3D light show on a natural canvas--the area's famous red rocks, of course. They are transformed with stunning holiday video projections, and the best seat in the house is available at Amara Resort and its SaltRock Southwest Kitchen. From Dec. 13 to Dec. 16, a nightly stay at Amara Resort starts at $199 per night. A three-course tasting menu at SaltRock is $55 per person (reservations highly recommended). Before or after taking in Sedona Nothern Lights, families can spend time together in the cool air enjoying lawn games, cozying up fireside with a cocktail and roasting marshmallows over outdoor fireplaces with the resort's s'mores kits. 

Fourth-Annual Christmas Movies at The Quarter: The Polar Express

The 4th annual Christmas Movies at The Quarter event series is back. Scottsdale Quarter will be showing holiday classics—this week, “The Polar Express”—at 6 p.m., right by the Christmas tree. It’s free to attend. Bring your chairs, cozy blankets and enjoy the show.

Ballet Arizona’s The Nutcracker

2018 marks the 33rd year of Ballet Arizona’s most beloved show, The Nutcracker. Get your sights set for visions of sugar plum fairies, sparkling Swarovski crystals, a radiant falling snow scene and elegant ballerinas telling the classic holiday tale. The family-friendly show takes place Dec. 13 through Dec. 24 at Symphony Hall in Phoenix. Tickets range from $25 to $167. 

City Lights Movie Nights: National Lampoon’s: Christmas Vacation and Home Alone

Get into the Christmas spirit with the screening of two classics: “National Lampoon’s: Christmas Vacation” and “Home Alone.” The first movie begins at 6:30 p.m. at the CityScape splash pad during City Lights Movie Nights. Guests are encouraged to bring their own chairs and arrive 15 minutes early to secure a spot.