The Best of Christmas in Arizona

Courthouse at Christmas in Prescott

It's hard to imagine the desert being Cbristmasy, but Arizona knows how to enjoy the season.  Whether you're in Phoenix enjoying Zoolights in 60 degree temperatures, or in Flagstaff enjoying a true winter wonderland, there's a little something for everyone. 


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The unofficial GTFO prize for most Christmasy feeling location goes to Prescott, which skillfully combines winter weather with a well decorated courtyard in the town square.  And if you go back in time to December 1, there's even a Christmas parade!  But for those of us stuck in the present, Prescott is still a great choice for a weekend winter trip.  If you still need gifts there are great choices:  books at The Peregrine, outdoor gear at The Hike Shack, fine art and local goods at many stores.  If you need refreshments swing by The Raven for a daytime drink on the roof; Granite Mountain Brewery for local beer; or The Park Plaza Liquor Deli for an amazing selection of drinks and some of the best food you'll find in town.  And if you need a coffee, the detour to Wild Iris for a Mexican Latte is worth the walk.

Most of us in AZ won't have a white Christmas, but if sledding and snowball fights part of your traditions then head up to Flagstaff, which has been getting dumped with snow lately.  VisitFlagstaff.com has several suggestions for skiing, sledding, and other snow play.  The Oak Hill Snow Play Area is another option.

Luminarias

Phoenix has multiple festive options.  The Desert Botanical Gardens Las Noches de las Luminarias is a local classic.  Tickets sell for between $30 and $40 and go quickly, so move quickly fast!  https://www.dbg.org/events/las-noches-de-las-luminarias/2018-12-01/.  If that's sold out, or if you prefer colored lights in shapes, check out Zoo Lights at the Phoenix Zoo.  There's currently a groupon deal available and this year there are live reindeer!  Can't make it to Flagstaff, but still want to experience winter? Check out City Skate at City Scape, Phoenix's own outdoor ice skating rink; or Snow Much Fun Day at the Children's Museum!

Tucson isn't slacking on the snow-play, either with the Enchanted Snowfall at La Encantada.  And if lights are your thing, head to Winterhaven for its tradition of decoration that looks even more spectacular than Zoo Lights (at least based on pictures).  Check out Tucson.com's list of things to do because I've never actually done a Tucson Christmas.