Best Holiday Events & Christmas Light Displays in North Phoenix (2025 Guide)
where to go?
The holiday season in Phoenix is filled with festive events, light displays, and activities for families to enjoy. So, we have put together this awesome Guide on the best North Phoenix holiday events and Christmas lights.
Whether you’re looking for holiday lights, parades, or unique shopping experiences, Phoenix has something for everyone during the holiday season. Here are the best holiday activities and events in Phoenix.
- ZooLights at the Phoenix Zoo
Every year, the Phoenix Zoo transforms into a winter wonderland with ZooLights, a holiday light display featuring millions of twinkling lights, life-sized animal sculptures, and music. Families can stroll through the zoo, sipping hot cocoa while enjoying the festive atmosphere. Special attractions like the Polar Slide and carousel rides make ZooLights a must-visit event during the holiday season. - Las Noches de las Luminarias at Desert Botanical Garden
The Desert Botanical Garden celebrates the holidays with Las Noches de las Luminarias, where the garden’s trails are lined with thousands of glowing luminarias. Families can enjoy live music, holiday performances, and warm drinks while walking through the beautifully lit gardens. This event is a peaceful and magical way to celebrate the holiday season with family. - Glendale Glitters
The historic downtown of Glendale is home to Glendale Glitters, Arizona’s largest free holiday light display. With over 1.6 million lights covering the downtown area, Glendale Glitters offers a variety of family-friendly activities, including live entertainment, holiday shopping, and food vendors. The event kicks off with a grand lighting ceremony and continues with weekend festivals throughout the season. - CitySkate in Downtown Phoenix
For a true winter experience in the desert, head to CitySkate, downtown Phoenix’s only outdoor ice skating rink. Located at CityScape, this festive event transforms the area into a winter village complete with lights, decorations, and holiday music. Families can enjoy ice skating under the twinkling lights and grab a bite to eat at one of the nearby restaurants. - Christmas at the Princess
Held at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, Christmas at the Princess is one of the most extravagant holiday events in Phoenix. The resort is decked out with over 4 million lights, a holiday ice skating rink, and a Christmas carousel. Families can take a ride on the Princess Express Train, visit Santa’s workshop, and enjoy hot cocoa while exploring the festive grounds. With so many activities for kids, Christmas at the Princess is a magical experience for families.
North Phoenix Holiday Pop-Up Bars & Restaurants
These were popups in 2024, so make sure to check to see if they are still active!
- Enjoy a holiday themed cocktail such as the Maplenut (tequila, walnut liqueur and barrel-aged maple syrup) or a Fresh Pow (updated whiskey sour topped with a thick coating of snow-white froth) while indulging in smores by the fire in this ski chalet inspired pop up bar. A portion of all revenue will benefit Healing Hearts Animal Rescue. Find this yummy beverage at the Apres Chalet Pop-Up Bar at The Hyatt Regency Scottsdale. It is available Thursdays-Saturdays through December 30th 430-10 pm.
- With kitschy holiday décor, themed cocktails, and lots of nostalgic energy, Miracle is sure to get even the grouchiest grinch in the holiday spirit. This pop-up holiday extravaganza will include plenty of Christmas cheer, Santa figurines, holiday cocktails, and more! Miracle Bar at Floor 13 is running through December 30th. Reservations are required on Friday and Saturday, and recommended all other days. This is not located in North Phoenix but is still a must see.
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Jo Jo’s Shake Bar is all decked out for the holidays! Enjoy a holiday over the top milk shake like the Winter Wonderland Shake (you can even add alcohol). Jo Jo’s also has holiday cocktails and hot chocolate, brunch, lunch and dinner options. Jo Jos is located in the Scottsdale Quarter.
Holidays in North Phoenix means enjoying the outdoors. Make sure to check out our list of best outdoor North Phoenix Restaurants before visiting a pop up!
Best North Phoenix Christmas Light Displays 2025
Again, check back for an updated list but in 2024 here is what was popular!
- 5923 E Kings Ave, Scottsdale
- 3450 E. Delcoa Ave, Phoenix
- 4735 E. Voltaire Ave, Scottsdale
- 4923 E. Wethersfield Rd, Scottsdale
- 11802 N. 55th St, Scottsdale
- 8807 E. Via de Palacio, Scottsdale
- 8414 E. Valley Vista, Scottsdale
- 4415 E. Calle Tuberia, Phoenix
- 1375 N. 87th St, Scottsdale
And don’t forget about the amazing Neighborhood Lights that are just south of Thunderbird off of Tatum (Voltaire) (music is synchronized to the lights).
Moon Valley of course has an amazing entire area of top light shows, and almost old time small town feel.
And Arrowhead Ranch with its light up the Lake displays.
After visiting different North Phoenix holiday events and Christmas lights and need help finding a place to eat–check out our blog about the best restaurants in Scottsdale. Looking to buy a home in Scottsdale? Here are all the available homes for sale in Scottsdale.
Have a favorite? Been to one of these and loved it? Have another one you like? Share with us. We are always updating.
Happy Holidays from Living North Phoenix.