7 Ways To Celebrate Christmas In Arizona

Christmas in Arizona is a unique and festive experience. While it may not be the traditional winter wonderland, the state's mild climate and abundance of outdoor activities make it an ideal place to celebrate the holiday season. From festive lights and decorations to outdoor adventures and special events, there are plenty of ways to get into the holiday spirit in Arizona. Here are 7 ways to celebrate Christmas in Arizona.

Arizona's mild winter weather makes it an ideal place to enjoy outdoor activities during the holiday season. One of the best ways to celebrate Christmas in Arizona is to get outside and enjoy the beautiful winter landscapes. From hiking and biking to golfing and horseback riding, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in Arizona's winter wonderland.

1. Explore Arizona's Festive Lights and Decorations

Arizona's cities and towns go all out when it comes to festive lights and decorations. From the famous ZooLights at the Phoenix Zoo to the holiday lights display at the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park in Scottsdale, there are plenty of places to see some amazing holiday lights. The Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix also puts on a beautiful display of lights and decorations, featuring over a million lights throughout the garden.

2. Take a Holiday Train Ride

One of the most festive ways to celebrate Christmas in Arizona is to take a holiday train ride. The Grand Canyon Railway in Williams, Arizona, offers a special holiday train ride that features Santa Claus, elves, and a Polar Express-style experience. The train ride takes passengers through the beautiful Arizona landscape and offers a fun and festive holiday experience.

3. Attend a Holiday Event or Festival

Arizona hosts a wide range of holiday events and festivals throughout the state. From the Phoenix Festival of the Arts to the Prescott Christmas Parade, there are plenty of fun and festive events to attend. The Glendale Glitters festival features a holiday lights display, ice skating rink, and festive food and drinks. The Tucson Meet Yourself festival celebrates the holiday season with music, dance, and food from around the world.

4. Go Skiing or Snowboarding

While Arizona's desert landscape may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of skiing and snowboarding, the state has several ski resorts that offer a fun and festive holiday experience. The Arizona Snowbowl in Flagstaff features over 40 trails and offers skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. The Sunrise Park Resort in Greer features over 65 trails and offers skiing, snowboarding, and tubing.

5. Take a Holiday Cooking Class

If you're looking for a unique and festive holiday experience, consider taking a holiday cooking class. The Sur la Table cooking school in Scottsdale offers a variety of holiday cooking classes, including a class on how to make traditional holiday cookies and a class on how to prepare a festive holiday feast. The Cookery in Tucson offers a variety of holiday cooking classes, including a class on how to make tamales and a class on how to prepare a holiday brunch.

6. Go on a Holiday Wine Tour

Arizona's wine country is a great place to celebrate the holiday season. The Su Vino Winery in Scottsdale offers a holiday wine tour that features wine tastings and a festive holiday lunch. The Carlson Creek Vineyard in Dragoon offers a holiday wine tour that features wine tastings and a tour of the vineyard.

7. Attend a Holiday Concert or Show

Arizona hosts a wide range of holiday concerts and shows throughout the state. The Phoenix Symphony Hall features a variety of holiday concerts, including a performance of "The Nutcracker" and a holiday pops concert. The Tucson Symphony Orchestra features a variety of holiday concerts, including a performance of "A Christmas Carol" and a holiday pops concert.

In conclusion, Christmas in Arizona is a unique and festive experience that offers something for everyone. From outdoor adventures and holiday events to holiday cooking classes and wine tours, there are plenty of ways to celebrate the holiday season in Arizona. Whether you're a native Arizonan or just visiting for the holidays, there's no shortage of fun and festive activities to enjoy in the Grand Canyon State.