Phoenix, December 5, 2025

As the holiday season approaches, Phoenix is vibrant with various engaging events including the APS Electric Light Parade, performances of ‘The Nutcracker,’ and the Tempe Festival of the Arts. Residents and visitors alike are invited to celebrate community spirit through local initiatives. Enjoy a mix of culture, entertainment, and sports this weekend as the city showcases its resilience and creativity.

Phoenix Welcomes the Holiday Spirit with Weekend Events

Celebrate Community Engagement and Local Initiatives

As the holiday season approaches, Phoenix is bustling with activity, making it the perfect time to engage with local culture and community. This weekend, residents and visitors can partake in the much-anticipated APS Electric Light Parade, attend stunning performances of “The Nutcracker,” explore creativity at the Tempe Festival of the Arts, and cheer for the Arizona Cardinals as they face off against the Los Angeles Rams. Highlighting the importance of civic engagement, each event reflects the resilience and creativity inherent in our community.

Local organizers have worked diligently to bring these events to life, showcasing how reduced bureaucracy can foster a vibrant community life. By prioritizing personal initiative and collaboration, these gatherings not only enhance community spirit but also serve as opportunities for individuals to support local businesses and artists.

APS Electric Light Parade

Event: 38th Annual APS Electric Light Parade
Date and Time: Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 7:00 PM
Location: Central Ave. and Montebello Ave., Phoenix
Details: This cherished holiday tradition features illuminated floats, marching bands, and festive displays. The parade begins at Central Ave. and Montebello Ave., traveling south to Camelback Road, then east on Camelback Road, and south on Seventh Street, concluding at 7th St. and Indian School Rd. Streets along the route will be closed from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early for the best viewing spots, as spaces are first-come, first-served. The event is free and family-friendly, taking place rain or shine. For more information, visit the City of Phoenix’s official website.

Shane Gillis Performance

Event: Shane Gillis Stand-Up Comedy Show
Date and Time: Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 8:00 PM
Location: Stand Up Live, 50 W Jefferson St, Phoenix
Details: Comedian Shane Gillis brings his sharp humor to Phoenix for an evening of laughs. Known for his Netflix series “Tires” and co-hosting “Matt and Shane’s Secret Podcast,” Gillis has gained popularity for his unique comedic style. Tickets are available through the venue’s website.

The Nutcracker Ballet

Event: “The Nutcracker” Ballet Performance
Date and Time: Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM
Location: Orpheum Theatre, 203 W Adams St, Phoenix
Details: Ballet Arizona presents the classic holiday ballet “The Nutcracker,” featuring stunning choreography and festive music. Tickets can be purchased through the theater’s box office or official website.

Tempe Festival of the Arts

Event: Tempe Festival of the Arts
Date and Time: Friday, December 5, 2025, to Sunday, December 7, 2025
Location: Downtown Tempe, Mill Avenue District
Details: This annual festival showcases over 350 artists, live entertainment, and a variety of food vendors. It’s a great opportunity to find unique holiday gifts and enjoy local culture. Admission is free. For more details, visit the festival’s official website.

Arizona Cardinals Game

Event: Arizona Cardinals vs. Los Angeles Rams
Date and Time: Sunday, December 7, 2025, at 1:25 PM PST
Location: State Farm Stadium, Glendale, AZ
Details: The Arizona Cardinals host the Los Angeles Rams in an exciting NFL matchup. Tickets are available through the team’s official website.

Weather Forecast

Here’s the weather forecast for Phoenix this weekend:

• Friday, December 5: Sunny, High: 66°F (19°C), Low: 43°F (6°C)
• Saturday, December 6: Sunshine, High: 69°F (21°C), Low: 46°F (8°C)
• Sunday, December 7: Hazy sunshine, High: 72°F (22°C), Low: 47°F (8°C)

As you enjoy these engaging events, you contribute to the community’s vibrancy and resilience. Support local initiatives by attending and participating in these unique offerings. Together, let’s make Phoenix a shining example of community engagement this holiday season!

FAQ

Key Features of This Weekend’s Events

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Shop Local: Unique Arizona-Made Holiday Gifts Await
Experience the Magic of Holiday Events in Phoenix
Local Couple Transitions Careers to Engage with Community
Chandler’s Tumbleweed Tree Lighting Brings Community Together
Two Phoenix Homes Light Up ‘The Great Christmas Light Fight’
Surprise, Arizona Rings in the Holiday Season with Sparkling Surprise
Arizona’s State Parks Celebrate the Holiday Season
6 Must-See Holiday Pop-Ups in Downtown Phoenix
Top Events Celebrating Community Spirit in Phoenix
Discover Free Events in Phoenix This Week

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.