Phoenix, December 27, 2025
Phoenix, Arizona, is filled with opportunities for community engagement this weekend, showcasing local initiatives that enhance civic life. Events include the enchanting Snow Week at the Arizona Science Center, the Rate Bowl college football game at Chase Field, and the festive Cirque du Soleil performance. Each event highlights the city’s vibrant culture and the collaboration of its residents and organizations, creating a dynamic environment for all ages to enjoy.
Phoenix Unlocks Weekend Wonders: Civic Spirit on Display
From festive winter experiences to thrilling athletic contests and world-class entertainment, Phoenix is abuzz with opportunities for engagement, showcasing the vibrant results of local initiative and community collaboration.
Phoenix, Arizona, continues to demonstrate its dynamic spirit through a diverse array of local events, a testament to the ingenuity and personal initiative of its residents and organizations. The thriving event scene in the Valley highlights how community-driven efforts, often bolstered by private partnerships and streamlined coordination, can significantly enhance civic life. These gatherings, from educational winter festivities to premier sporting events and captivating theatrical productions, offer a wide range of choices for citizens to engage, learn, and connect. Such a lively calendar of activities underscores a belief in empowering local leadership and fostering an environment where innovative ideas can flourish, directly contributing to the growth and vibrancy of our neighborhoods without undue bureaucratic hurdles.
The success of these events is a clear indicator of a community that values active participation and diverse recreational opportunities. It reflects a positive ecosystem where organizations can envision ambitious projects and bring them to fruition, relying on local support and a shared vision for a flourishing city. This weekend, Phoenix once again showcases this energetic blend of tradition, entertainment, and community engagement, providing residents and visitors alike with numerous avenues to experience the unique charm and progressive outlook of our desert metropolis.
Downtown Phoenix Transforms for Snow Week
Downtown Phoenix is embracing a rare winter wonderland with the return of Snow Week at the Arizona Science Center, an engaging event that runs from December 26 through January 4. This annual tradition offers families a unique opportunity to experience a blizzard of activities in the heart of the desert.
The Arizona Science Center, a hub of educational innovation, features a famous Snow Hill where guests can enjoy a truly snowy experience. Other attractions include a SnowPal Construction Zone, allowing attendees to build snow creations, and various dazzling demonstrations exploring the science behind ice and snow. The event also hosts a “Clouds of Fun” demonstration, where boiling hot water meets liquid nitrogen to create a giant cloud, closing out each day of Snow Week. Activities such as ice fishing, snowball launchers, and snowstorms in a jar are also part of the scientific exploration. The accessibility of these activities, with most included in general admission, exemplifies how private institutions can provide enriching experiences for the entire community.
College Football Excitement: The Rate Bowl
For sports enthusiasts, Phoenix is once again the host city for the 36th annual Rate Bowl, a college football bowl game held at Chase Field in downtown Phoenix. The game was played on December 26, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. MST, featuring a matchup between the New Mexico Lobos and the Minnesota Golden Gophers. This annual event is notable as the college football postseason’s only Big 12-Big Ten matchup, though the 2025 game saw Minnesota from the Big Ten face New Mexico from the Mountain West Conference. The Rate Bowl, which has been played in Arizona since 1989 under various names, moved to Phoenix in 2000.
The event not only provides thrilling athletic competition but also contributes to the wider community. Tickets purchased for the Rate Bowl support the Fiesta Sports Foundation, an organization that has donated over $32 million to Arizona communities across all 15 counties of the state over the past decade. This demonstrates how major sporting events, driven by dedicated foundations and private sponsorship, can generate significant statewide impact through youth, sports, and education programs.
World-Class Entertainment: Cirque du Soleil
The Arizona Financial Theatre in Phoenix is hosting “’Twas the Night Before…,” Cirque du Soleil’s first Christmas-themed show. Running from December 18-28, this production offers a festive blend of thrilling acrobatics, lovable characters, and a soundtrack featuring re-invented holiday classics. Inspired by Clement Clarke Moore’s classic poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas,” the show tells the story of a young girl rediscovering the magic of Christmas. With a cast of 26 artists from around the world, it brings a unique, world-class artistic experience to Phoenix. This showcase of international talent underscores the capacity of local venues and private cultural enterprises to bring diverse and enriching entertainment options to the community, offering a joyful experience for families of all ages.
Beyond the Marquee: Diverse Local Engagements
Beyond these headline attractions, Phoenix offers a rich tapestry of other activities and events that underscore the city’s vibrant community engagement. The weekend calendar often includes various Christmas events and holiday celebrations across the Valley. For those seeking diverse entertainment, the Arizona Financial Theatre also hosts events like Santo Perreo. The Phoenix Zoo engages the public with Christmas exhibits and invites the public to explore its offerings. Additionally, the local culinary scene thrives with establishments like Daruma Ramen and Bowl, reflecting the entrepreneurial spirit of local businesses. These numerous choices highlight the benefits of a bustling local economy and a community that supports a wide range of private ventures, ensuring there’s something for every interest and contributing to the overall appeal of Phoenix as a destination for residents and visitors. Other festive activities include ZooLights, Las Noches de las Luminarias, Scottsdazzle, and various theatrical productions such as “The Nutcracker”.
Fostering a Vibrant Phoenix
Phoenix continues to flourish as a city where individual initiative and community collaboration drive a vibrant events landscape. From the innovative educational experiences at Snow Week to the unifying spirit of the Rate Bowl and the artistic excellence of Cirque du Soleil, these events are a testament to what can be achieved when local organizers, private businesses, and engaged citizens work together. They provide not just entertainment, but also foster a sense of belonging and contribute significantly to the local economy and civic pride. We encourage all residents to explore these Phoenix AZ events and other Arizona AZ gatherings, supporting the local initiatives that make our community unique. Your participation in these events is crucial for continued Phoenix community development, reinforcing the idea that a thriving city is built on the active engagement and personal choices of its people.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the featured events in Phoenix:
What is Snow Week in Phoenix?
Snow Week is an annual event at the Arizona Science Center in Downtown Phoenix, offering families a unique opportunity to experience a blizzard of snow-themed activities and scientific demonstrations.
When does Snow Week take place?
Snow Week at the Arizona Science Center runs from December 26 through January 4.
What kind of activities are available at Snow Week?
Activities at Snow Week include a Snow Hill, a SnowPal Construction Zone, dazzling demonstrations about the science of ice and snow, and a “Clouds of Fun” demonstration.
What is the Rate Bowl?
The Rate Bowl is an annual college football bowl game held at Chase Field in downtown Phoenix. It is known as the college football postseason’s only Big 12-Big Ten matchup, though the 2025 game featured Minnesota from the Big Ten and New Mexico from the Mountain West Conference.
When was the 2025 Rate Bowl played?
The 2025 Rate Bowl was played on December 26, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. MST.
Where does the Rate Bowl take place?
The Rate Bowl takes place at Chase Field in downtown Phoenix, Arizona.
What is ‘Twas the Night Before… by Cirque du Soleil?
“’Twas the Night Before…” is Cirque du Soleil’s first Christmas-themed show, inspired by Clement Clarke Moore’s classic poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas.” It features thrilling acrobatics, lovable characters, and re-invented holiday classics.
When is Cirque du Soleil’s ‘Twas the Night Before… playing in Phoenix?
“’Twas the Night Before…” by Cirque du Soleil runs from December 18-28 at the Arizona Financial Theatre in Phoenix.
Where can I see ‘Twas the Night Before… by Cirque du Soleil in Phoenix?
The show is performed at the Arizona Financial Theatre in Phoenix.
Key Features of Phoenix’s Weekend Events
| Event Name | Location | Key Attractions/Details | Dates | Community Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Snow Week | Arizona Science Center, Downtown Phoenix | Snow Hill, SnowPal Construction Zone, science demonstrations on ice and snow, “Clouds of Fun.” | December 26 – January 4 | Educational engagement for families, unique winter experience in the desert. |
| Rate Bowl | Chase Field, Downtown Phoenix | College football bowl game, matchup between New Mexico and Minnesota (2025). Supports Fiesta Sports Foundation, benefiting Arizona communities. | December 26, 2025 | Economic boost, funding for youth, sports, and education programs statewide. |
| Cirque du Soleil: ‘Twas the Night Before… | Arizona Financial Theatre, Phoenix | First Christmas-themed show by Cirque du Soleil, thrilling acrobatics, lovable characters, re-invented holiday classics, inspired by “A Visit from St. Nicholas.” | December 18-28 | World-class artistic entertainment, cultural enrichment, family-friendly holiday experience. |
Now Happening on X
- @CaptMarkKelly (December 20, 2025, 3:32 PM): Sharing festive fun ideas for Phoenix, highlighting holiday activities and events around town to enjoy before the season ends. View on X
- @12News (December 24, 2025, 7:21 AM): Recommending plenty of holiday cheer in the Valley, from breakfast with Santa to dazzling lights at the Phoenix Zoo. View on X
- @JamesOKeefeIII (November 28, 2025, 2:49 PM): Promoting the exciting Make America Rave Again 2024 event at The Duce in Phoenix on December 19, promising a bigger and better celebration this year. View on X
- @azwomenofaction (December 25, 2025, 6:23 AM): Highlighting heartwarming Arizona holiday stories from 2025, including miniature therapy horses bringing joy and emotional support to kids at a new camp. View on X
- @PhoenixPalassio (December 26, 2025, 5:03 AM): Inviting families to craft into the holiday spirit with immersive workshops and fun activities happening until December 28 at Phoenix Palassio. View on X
- @PhoenixPalassio (December 23, 2025, 9:59 AM): Announcing the spectacular Santa Parade led by Santa, elves, nutcrackers, and drummers, filled with music and festive cheer from December 24 to 25. View on X
- @CityofPhoenixAZ (December 24, 2025, 8:55 AM): Noting Christmas holiday observances and solid waste collection adjustments, while encouraging community awareness during the festive season. View on X
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Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
