Phoenix, AZ, December 5, 2025
Phoenix, Arizona, is bustling with festive activities this December, showcasing a vibrant array of holiday celebrations. From the stunning APS Electric Light Parade to the enchanting ZooLights at the Phoenix Zoo, there’s something for everyone. Local markets and community events foster civic pride and support local artists and entrepreneurs, creating a truly joyful season for residents and visitors alike. Engage in the holiday cheer with events like Winter Wanderland and the Phoenix Festival of the Arts, which promise fun-filled experiences for all ages.
December in Phoenix: Holiday Events and Festivities
Discover the Best Holiday Celebrations and Activities in Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix, Arizona, is embracing the holiday season with a variety of festive events throughout December. This month presents an opportunity for local organizers to showcase resilience and creativity, illustrating how reduced bureaucracy can enhance event coordination and community engagement.
The festivities include dazzling light displays, lively outdoor markets, and family-friendly activities that foster civic pride. As residents and visitors come together to celebrate, it becomes evident that these events not only illuminate the city but also strengthen community ties and showcase local talent.
APS Electric Light Parade
On Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 7 p.m., Central Avenue will come alive with the APS Electric Light Parade. This annual spectacle showcases festive floats, performers, and music, resulting in a vibrant holiday atmosphere. The parade is a free event and has become a cherished tradition for families throughout the Phoenix area.
ZooLights at the Phoenix Zoo
From November 26, 2025, to January 16, 2026, the Phoenix Zoo transforms into a breathtaking winter wonderland with ZooLights. Visitors can marvel at over four million twinkling lights, glowing animal lanterns, and the tallest floating tree in North America. Open nightly from 5:30 to 10:30 p.m., this event provides a magical experience for families and guests of all ages.
Phoestivus Holiday Craft Market
On Friday, December 12, 2025, from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., downtown Phoenix will host the Phoestivus Holiday Craft Market. Featuring food trucks, craft vendors, and local beer, this family-friendly event offers a unique shopping experience that encourages support for local entrepreneurs. Pets are welcome, making it a fun outing for everyone.
Winter Wanderland
Scheduled for December 20, 2025, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Winter Wanderland will take place in various locations in the Downtown Phoenix core. This free community celebration includes live performances, festive lights, and holiday décor that create a relaxed evening without the need for tickets, inviting the community to engage and connect.
Tianyu Lights Festival
Beginning December 5, 2025, at 7:30 p.m., the Tianyu Lights Festival at Camelback Ranch will feature breathtaking luminous art installations. The festival will include themed areas like Bugs Aglow and Prehistoric Holidays, along with a food court and a marketplace showcasing unique, handcrafted items. This event exemplifies how cultural experiences can enrich the local fabric of Phoenix.
Desert Farm Lights
From November 21 to December 28, 2025 (closed on Christmas Day), Desert Farm Lights in Surprise offers a 13-acre light show alongside an immersive candy-cane maze, train rides, illuminated trees, and delightful holiday décor. It’s perfect for families seeking a festive atmosphere in close proximity to Phoenix.
Las Noches de las Luminarias at Desert Botanical Garden
Running on select dates from December 5 to December 30, 2025, Las Noches de las Luminarias at the Desert Botanical Garden allows visitors to stroll candlelit paths adorned with thousands of luminarias while enjoying live music. This event highlights the beauty of nature combined with the spirit of the holiday season, establishing it as one of the premier experiences in Phoenix.
Christmas at Schnepf Farms
From November 28 to December 28, 2025 (closed on Christmas Day), Schnepf Farms in Queen Creek transforms into a festive wonderland. Offering attractions such as ice skating, hayrides, mini-golf, and cozy movie zones, this venue provides a broad array of activities, encouraging families to come together and create lasting memories.
Wild West Holiday Market
On December 11, 2025, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., the Renaissance Phoenix Downtown Hotel will host the Wild West Holiday Market. This event features local vendors, a cowboy Santa photo opportunity, live music, and complimentary festive bites and beverages, making it a delightful gathering spot for community members.
Phoenix Festival of the Arts
On December 14 and 15, 2025, Margaret T. Hance Park will be the site for the Phoenix Festival of the Arts. With more than 150 art vendors and over 20 food vendors, this free, dog-friendly festival promotes community involvement and supports local artists, enhancing the cultural landscape of Phoenix.
Conclusion
These holiday events offer a variety of festivities that promise fun for residents and visitors alike throughout December in Phoenix. As individuals come together to enjoy the lights, music, and local crafts, it’s a testament to the strength of community involvement and individual initiative. Encourage others to explore these seasonal offerings and support local initiatives that make Phoenix a vibrant place to live and thrive.
FAQs
What events are happening in Phoenix this December?
Phoenix will host a variety of festive events throughout December, including the APS Electric Light Parade, ZooLights at the Phoenix Zoo, Phoestivus Holiday Craft Market, Winter Wanderland, Tianyu Lights Festival, Desert Farm Lights, Las Noches de las Luminarias at Desert Botanical Garden, Christmas at Schnepf Farms, Wild West Holiday Market, and Phoenix Festival of the Arts.
When is the APS Electric Light Parade?
The APS Electric Light Parade will take place on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 7 p.m. on Central Avenue.
What is ZooLights at the Phoenix Zoo?
ZooLights at the Phoenix Zoo is a winter wonderland event running from November 26, 2025, to January 16, 2026, showcasing over four million twinkling lights, glowing animal lanterns, and the tallest floating tree in North America.
| Event Name | Date | Description |
|---|---|---|
| APS Electric Light Parade | December 6, 2025 | Free family-friendly parade featuring festive floats and performers. |
| ZooLights at the Phoenix Zoo | November 26, 2025 – January 16, 2026 | A winter wonderland with millions of lights and animal lanterns. |
| Phoestivus Holiday Craft Market | December 12, 2025 | Craft vendors, food trucks, and local beer in a pet-friendly market. |
| Winter Wanderland | December 20, 2025 | Free community celebration with live performances and festive decorations. |
| Tianyu Lights Festival | December 5, 2025 | Showcases luminous art installations with themed areas. |
| Desert Farm Lights | November 21 – December 28, 2025 | A 13-acre light show ideal for families. |
| Las Noches de las Luminarias | December 5 – December 30, 2025 | Candlelit paths with luminarias and live music in a beautiful garden. |
| Christmas at Schnepf Farms | November 28 – December 28, 2025 | Festive activities including ice skating and holiday movie zone. |
| Wild West Holiday Market | December 11, 2025 | Local vendors and festive music with complimentary bites. |
| Phoenix Festival of the Arts | December 14 – December 15, 2025 | Art and food vendors in a free dog-friendly festival. |
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