Phoenix, Arizona, December 9, 2025
This week, residents of Phoenix can enjoy a variety of festive events from December 8 to December 14. The city is hosting local artisan markets, holiday light displays, theater performances, and community gatherings. Notable highlights include the Downtown Christmas Market, ZooLights at the Phoenix Zoo, and Las Noches de las Luminarias at the Desert Botanical Garden. Additionally, families can participate in celebrations such as Chanukah in Carefree and the Hanukkah Family Glow Party. These events aim to strengthen community bonds while celebrating the holiday spirit.
Explore Festive Events Around Phoenix This Week
From December 8 to December 14, 2025, Phoenix, Arizona, shines brightly with a plethora of exciting events and activities that embody holiday spirit and community engagement. Local organizers have come together to craft a vibrant array of options catering to families, art lovers, and community-minded individuals alike. This week showcases how civic innovation and personal initiative can transform our city into a bustling celebration of local talent and initiative, enriching the community without the hurdles of excessive bureaucracy.
As we celebrate the holiday season, these events not only serve as opportunities for leisure but also strengthen the fabric of our neighborhoods. By supporting local artisans, participating in community gatherings, and attending performances, residents can foster connections and keep Phoenix’s spirit of collaboration alive. Here’s a closer look at what’s happening around the Valley this week.
Festive Markets and Light Displays
- Downtown Christmas Market
Located at CityScape Phoenix, this outdoor market runs from December 10 to December 24, offering holiday shopping, live entertainment, and seasonal treats. Highlights include handcrafted goods from local artisans, holiday carolers, and an ice skating rink. Entry is free; activities are priced individually. - ZooLights
Held at the Phoenix Zoo from December 1 to December 31, this spectacular holiday light display features millions of lights and festive attractions, including animated light sculptures, a carousel, and seasonal treats. General admission starts at $20, with discounts for children and members. - Las Noches de las Luminarias
Taking place at the Desert Botanical Garden from December 8 to December 23, this magical evening event features thousands of luminarias lighting up the garden paths, live music, hot cocoa, and breathtaking views of the desert at night. General admission starts at $30, with discounts for children.
Theater Performances
- ‘The Nutcracker’
Presented by Convergence Ballet, featuring students from Ballet Theatre of Phoenix, this production runs from December 12 to December 14 at the Herberger Theater Center. - ‘Elf the Musical Jr.’
Hosted by the Musical Theatre of Anthem, this performance runs from December 4 to December 14 at 42201 N. 41st Drive, Suite B100. Reserved seating is $30.
Community Events
- Chanukah in Carefree 2025
From December 14 to December 21 at the Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion, this celebration includes nightly menorah lightings, live music, family-friendly activities, and traditional foods. Each evening at 5:30 p.m., the festival features new hosts and performances. - Hanukkah Family Glow Party
On December 14 from 2:30 to 4 p.m. at the Valley of the Sun J, this event offers dancing, glow stick games, interactive activities, dinner, and dessert for families.
Sports and Fitness
- Santa Hustle Arizona
Scheduled for December 14 in Glendale, this festive run features holiday decorations, music, and treats like candy canes and cookies. Participants receive Santa-themed gear, including a hat, beard, long sleeve shirt, beanie, and finisher medal. - Fuelfest at Firebird Motorsports Park
On December 14 in Chandler, this event includes drag racing, 700 cars, and live action drifting. Gates open from 1-8 p.m., with drift pits offering fans close-up views of the cars.
Art Exhibitions
- ‘The Magical Flute: Beauty, Enchantment, and Power’
Located at the Musical Instrument Museum, this exhibition runs from December 8, 2025, to October 14, 2026. Tickets are $7.
These events showcase the richness of talent and community spirit in Phoenix, providing residents an opportunity to enjoy experiences that reflect local culture and creativity. Make it a point to partake in these festivities and support the mobilization of community initiatives that keep our city vibrant.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the dates for the Downtown Christmas Market?
The Downtown Christmas Market runs from December 10 to December 24, 2025, at CityScape Phoenix.
Where is ‘The Nutcracker’ being performed?
‘The Nutcracker’ is presented by Convergence Ballet at the Herberger Theater Center from December 12 to December 14, 2025.
What is the cost to attend the Hanukkah Family Glow Party?
The Hanukkah Family Glow Party is scheduled for December 14, 2025, from 2:30 to 4 p.m. at the Valley of the Sun J. Pricing is per family and includes food; specific details can be found on the event’s website.
When is the Santa Hustle Arizona event?
The Santa Hustle Arizona is scheduled for December 14, 2025, in Glendale, Arizona.
How long is ‘The Magical Flute’ exhibition running?
‘The Magical Flute: Beauty, Enchantment, and Power’ exhibition runs from December 8, 2025, to October 14, 2026, at the Musical Instrument Museum. Tickets are $7.
Key Features of Events in Phoenix This Week
| Event | Date | Location | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Downtown Christmas Market | Dec 10 – Dec 24 | CityScape Phoenix | Free entry; activities priced individually |
| ZooLights | Dec 1 – Dec 31 | Phoenix Zoo | From $20 |
| Las Noches de las Luminarias | Dec 8 – Dec 23 | Desert Botanical Garden | From $30 |
| ‘The Nutcracker’ | Dec 12 – Dec 14 | Herberger Theater Center | Varies |
| ‘Elf the Musical Jr.’ | Dec 4 – Dec 14 | Musical Theatre of Anthem | $30 reserved seating |
| Chanukah in Carefree | Dec 14 – Dec 21 | Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion | Varies |
| Santa Hustle Arizona | Dec 14 | Glendale, AZ | Varies |
| ‘The Magical Flute’ Exhibition | Dec 8, 2025 – Oct 14, 2026 | Musical Instrument Museum | $7 |
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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.
