The City of Scottsdale is gearing up to make spirits bright once again with the return of Scottsdazzle, the city’s annual holiday celebration. Now in its 10th year, the monthlong event brings together residents, visitors, and businesses for dazzling festivities that light up Old Town from late November through December.
The season kicks off on November 29, with Jingle & Jazz: Scottsdazzle’s Tree Lighting Spectacular. From 7-9 p.m., guests can enjoy swing bands, dance routines, activities, and the illumination of the 36-foot Scottsdazzle tree. Hosted by community leader Kira Peters, the evening also features seasonal treats, a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus, and a pop-up market by The Merchantile of Scottsdale.
Scottsdazzle’s opening day also celebrates Shop Small Scottsdale in honor of Small Business Saturday. Visitors can spend the day exploring boutiques and restaurants, many of which will be offering specials and sales. The Jingle Belles will provide musical cheer with performances throughout Historic Old Town and the 5th Avenue Shopping District from 1 to 3 p.m., while shoppers can also snag gift-with-purchase items from Scottsdale Ambassador Carts.
Families won’t want to miss Meet Santa at the Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market, happening Saturdays from November 29 through December 20. Guests can browse produce, handmade goods, and festive finds while little ones and pets get their photo with Santa.
On December 6, the Scottsdale Civic Center has two back-to-back events. The Ultimate Family Playdate (9 a.m.–1 p.m.) invites kids to explore interactive science, sports, and creative activities hosted by the Scottsdale Public Library. Later that evening, families can cozy up under the stars for Starlight Movie Night featuring Home Alone, complete with caroling and sweet treats before the 7 p.m. showing.
The same day, the Miracle of the Roses Celebration (4-6 p.m.) at the Old Adobe Mission honors Our Lady of Guadalupe through music, dance, and reenactments of the historic December 12, 1531, event. For those who love to sip, craft, and socialize, Jingle & Mingle: Wine and Craft Workshop at Arizona Stronghold Vineyards (Dec. 5, 5-8 p.m.) offers a creative evening of ornament decorating, live music, and Arizona-grown wine.
Throughout December, visitors can enjoy Scottsdazzle Stroll and Shop on Saturdays (December 6, 13, and 20) from 6-9 p.m. at the Scottsdale Waterfront. The area transforms into a winter wonderland of glowing lights, festive décor, live music, and pop-up shopping.
Art enthusiasts can soak up the holiday creativity during the Scottsdazzle Gold Palette ArtWalk on December 11 (6:30-9 p.m.) in the Scottsdale Arts District. The evening features seasonal works from local and national artists, live demonstrations, and caroling.
Families can continue the fun with Pancakes and Pajamas with Santa on December 13 at the Marshall Way Bridge, a ticketed event ($30 per person) that includes breakfast, crafts, and a performance by Greasepaint Theatre. Creative spirits can join Holly Jolly DIY Décor (2-5 p.m.) to craft their own decorations with guidance from professional artists at the Scottsdale Artists’ School.
The Menorah Lighting takes place on December 17 (5:30-7 p.m.) at Soleri Plaza, featuring music, crafts, and a beautiful nine-foot menorah. The Hanukkah Celebration follows on December 21 (4:30-6 p.m.), presented by the Chabad of South Scottsdale. The season’s spiritual heart continues with the Live Nativity and Choir Concert on December 20 (6-8 p.m.) at the Old Adobe Mission, complete with real performers and animals bringing the Christmas story to life.
To close out the celebration, Mariachi Sol de México De José Hernández performs on Sunday, December 21 at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts. The fifth-generation mariachi ensemble, known for its electrifying performances, will fill the theater with festive favorites and mariachi classics.
Adding to the enchantment, Scottsdazzle 2025 introduces the Tinsel Trail, a new program showcasing holiday window paintings by local artists throughout Old Town. Visitors can enjoy displays, performances, giveaways, and pop-up surprises all season long. Learn more at scottsdazzle.com.
