We know that everyone has their own holiday traditions. But sometimes it is best to try something new! Although it is fun to sit inside and sit around the tree early in the morning, you can still do just that — but maybe in a different setting! Forget sitting inside and just staring out the window all day long. If you live in a snowy spot where it is just too cold to go outside, we recommend heading to a fun, outdoor-centric spot that has tons of winter sports, holiday activities, and Christmas-themed attractions that are perfect for vacationers who want to make the most of this bright and bubbly holiday season.
No matter what you celebrate, whether it is Hanukkah, Christmas, or another holiday, we love the Christmas-themed activities and annual events held in Scottsdale every single year. Everyone is welcome to come and celebrate by looking at the incredible light fixtures, the massive tree lighting ceremonies, meeting Santa and Mrs. Claus, and shopping around the local boutiques for last minute presents for their friends or family!
Let’s check out the top things to do for Christmas in Scottsdale! No matter if you come with your young kids, teenagers, or extended family, there are endless activities and events for you to attend during your time in Scottsdale, AZ.
Head to ZooLights
Every Christmas season, the zoo really goes all out! You will love heading here in the evening to gaze at the incredible light displays, watch the animals in their natural habitat, and ask the zoo workers about the wildlife in the surrounding area. Not only is this an educational visit, but you will have such a fun time coming to the zoo in the evening hours and seeing it as never before!
ZooLights offers one of the biggest and most widespread light displays in the entire state! And we are not surprised — the workers here spend weeks and weeks setting up over two million lights across the entire property to ensure you have the best time possible for your Scottsdale, AZ Christmas. There is no dark spot here in the zoo, with the strands of lights hanging from tree tops, banners, and fences, bringing a bright and holiday glow to the entire zoo.
Not to mention, this is a great activity for kids — teens and young toddlers alike! You can bring the young kids here to enjoy going on the camel rides, taking a wagon ride through the brightly lit zoo and learning some important information about the zoo animals through the animated displays. For your teens, take them to the stingray area and have them touch a real-life stingray to really get the adrenaline going!
Once you’re done walking your kids through the interactive exhibits and learning about the animals, you can head to the infamous light show. This orchestrated production is amazing, featuring incredible lights that turn off and on in perfect synchronization. Munch on some holiday snacks, like sweet chocolate covered popcorn as you sip on some hot cocoa, and marvel at the bright lights.
Illumination Symphony of Light
Another fun activity that you MUST do during your time in Scottsdale this Christmas season is heading to the Illumination Symphony of Light in the nearby city of Phoenix, AZ. Just a short drive away from downtown Scottsdale in your accommodation is the bustling city of Phoenix — the perfect place for a night out!
Head here to catch the incredible light show, amazing displays, and holiday vibes. You can listen to some of the most famous holiday music, sing along with your family, and eat some filling holiday food from one of the many snack vendors and drink stands.
Plus, we love that you can come here all throughout the beginning of January! Even if you were too busy to come here during the month of December, this long-standing light show continues through the first two weeks of January for the latecomers who still want to see the Christmas shows, take part in the holiday cheer, and sing along with the best Christmas tunes.
Book Your Magical Christmas Escape
As you can see, there is plenty of fun to be had in Scottsdale, AZ during the Christmas season! Not only are there tons of activities for you and your family, but you and your friends can take part in some of the New Year’s Eve Celebrations. There is no better time of the year to come to Arizona than the holiday season.
And don’t just take our word for it! Book one of the cozy and modern holiday rentals from Porter to come back to a relaxed and comfortable spot every single night to chill out, get a great night of sleep, and wake up feeling rested and ready to tackle the next day.
