Events, things to do in the Phoenix metro area: December 2023

Scroll down the list of events happening in the Phoenix metro area during the month of December. The dates are in descending order.

December 31

New Year's Eve Party at FOUND:RE Phoenix Hotel and Match Market & Bar

"The New Year’s Eve Pop Art Party celebrates art and fashion to celebrate this iconic art movement. Guests are encouraged to embrace the pop art aesthetic in style with an unforgettable night featuring pop art installations throughout the property ideal for selfies and photos, DJs throughout the night, champagne toast at midnight, a variety of themed activations and more."

  • Dec. 31 - Jan. 1
  • 9 p.m. - 1 a.m.
  • Tickets start at $50
  • 1100 N. Central Ave., Phoenix
  • foundrehotels.com

Pedal Haus Brewery New Year's Eve Rooftop Disco Bash

"Revel in style at Pedal Haus’ lively rooftop bar overlooking the stunning Downtown area. This Rooftop Bash delivers a vibrant, New Year’s celebration with dazzling disco affair, a DJ from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. and a disco ball-drop with champagne flowing all night long."

Valley Bar's 2nd Annual NYE Block Party

"Bring in 2024 with Valley Bar at their annual NYE Block Party. Dance to Reggaeton and Urbano in the basement or Hip-Hop and R&B on the alley stage."

New Year's Eve Bash at Glow Downtown Tempe

"Get ready to party all night at Glow Downtown Tempe's New Years Eve Bash, where the fun never stops and the celebrations are off the charts!"

JoJo's ShakeBAR Kids New Year's Eve Party

"Parents can experience NYE with their littles and not have guilt about going out. We have hats, glasses, necklaces, over-the-top shakes, cookies, toppings, snowflake shaped grilled cheese with tomato bisque soup for the littles and the entire place is decked out in a Winter Wonderland theme."

  • Dec. 31
  • 12 p.m.
  • 15037 N. Scottsdale Rd, Suite J150, Scottsdale

Families Dive into a Family Friendly Noon Year's Eve Party

"New Years Eve is a tricky holiday with young kids, and East Valley Moms is giving local families an alternative to midnight celebrations: Noon Years Eve. When the clock strikes noon, families will ring in the new year and still make it to naptime on time, thanks to East Valley Moms. Families can dive into the new year with a not-so-polar-plunge into Swimhaus Swim School’s 90-degree indoor pool, plus enjoy all the festivities planned on land."

  • Dec 31
  • 10:30 a.m.
  • Family admission of up to four: $30
  • Gilbert Swimhaus: 868 N. Gilbert Rd., Suite 100, Gilbert
  • https://swimhaus.com/

December 30

Decadence Arizona

"Celebrate New Year's with Steve Aoki and a slew of many other performers at Decadence Arizona. Fans of house music will have plenty of tunes to dance along to."

December 29

Arizona National Livestock Show

"Arizona National Livestock Show is the largest livestock show in the Southwest, an annual Phoenix tradition since 1948. Watch the livestock competition, which brings over 4,200 head of the nation's best livestock from more than 39 states for the annual Livestock Show."

  • Dec. 29 - Dec. 31
  • 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.
  • 602-258-8568
  • Arizona State Fairgrounds: 1826 W. McDowell Rd., Phoenix
  • https://www.anls.org/

December 26

Snow Week at Arizona Science Center

"Mark your calendars—there’s a 100% chance of snow this December in Downtown Phoenix! Arizona Science Center’s Snow Week, made possible by Subaru, is back with a blizzard of activities the whole family will love—from our famous Snow Hill and SnowPal Construction Zone to an avalanche of activities."

Winter Camps at Arizona Science Center

"Explore all things icy at Arizona’s coolest camp! CAMP INNOVATION returns this Winter Break for a limited 4-day camp, Snowy Survival. Through engaging, hands-on activities, future scientists will learn how animals survive in cold environments, discover how ice can act as an insulator and conduct winter-themed experiments."

December 24

Santa's Workshop - North Pole Experience

"A Christmas Adventure of a Lifetime, the North Pole Experience starts by taking families on a trolley ride through the magic portal to Santa’s massive workshop in the middle of the forest. Once you arrive, Santa’s Workshop is a complete, hands-on experience for children and parents. Families work side-by-side with the elves, building toys and learning Santa’s Workshop secrets."

  • Dec. 24 - 26, Jan. 1 -2
  • NPX portal location: Little America Hotel
  • 2515 E. Butler Ave., Flagstaff
  • Tickets start at $58 adults/$52 for children 17 months to 17 years
  • https://northpoleexperience.com

December 23

World of Illumination: Cosmic Sleighride

"Climb aboard your cosmic sleigh with your host Shiny the Star on a mystical holiday adventure that is out of this world at Cosmic Sleighride produced by World of Illumination. Shoot past the sun, race among the stars and pass through Kris Kringle’s celestial portal where toys prepare for launch. Orbit around a team of astro elves hoverboarding through the cosmos as you enter the stratosphere of Santa City, where all the holiday magic happens. Hold on to your seat — you’re in for one stellar ride."

World of Illumination: Reindeer Road

"A merrily magical journey."

December 22

Merry Main Street activities in Mesa

'Twas the Night Before by Cirque du Soleil 

"A festive flurry of love and cheer created especially for families, ‘Twas the Night Before… features thrilling acrobatics, lovable characters - and a soundtrack including holiday classics re-invented by Cirque du Soleil."

December 20

DRUMLine Live Holiday Spectacular

"The "DRUMLine Live Holiday Spectacular" takes you on an unforgettable musical journey through the most beloved chart-topping holiday classics. Imagine the festive sounds of holiday cheer combining Gospel, Jazz, Soul, Motown rhythms, and The Nutcracker Suite mixed with a hip-hop beat and the driving force of a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) marching band. You have to see the "DRUMLine Live Holiday Spectacular" to experience the magic and musicianship!"

  • Dec. 20, 7 p.m.
  • The Vista Center for the Arts
  • 15660 N Parkview Place Surprise, AZ 85374
  • Tickets: https://thevistaaz.com or call 623-523-8888

December 16

Claus for a Cause

Donuts with Grown Ups

"The mornings include complimentary coffee from in-house coffee shop Pair Cupworks, treats from Voodoo Donuts, and family games and activities. Kids under 14 years old can climb for free and day-pass memberships are available for parents to purchase if they want to use the gym."

Mesa Book Festival

"The Mesa Book Festival is a full, free day of books and fun Dec. 16 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Benedictine University, 225 E. Main St. The festival features kids readings at the holiday tree, programming panels for writers and readers, music entertainment and food."

  • Dec. 16, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
  • Benedictine University, 225 E. Main St.

Peoria Day of Giving

"If you are in need this holiday season, join us for our annual Day Of Giving event at the Peoria Community Center. We will have fun for the kids with food, face painting, bounce houses, cookie decorating and, of course, Santa! This is an all-free event with gifts for the kids. The event is from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., so show up early. While supplies last. Children must be present."

VRBO Fiesta Bowl Parade

"This year marks the 51st edition of the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl Parade presented by Lerner & Rowe and the theme is Spirit of Competition. Honoring this year's theme, former Arizona State University and NFL quarterback Jake Plummer and former Moon Valley High School, University of Arizona and NBA standout Richard Jefferson will be honored as grand marshals."

Wreaths Across America

"The National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona will honor the service and sacrifice of all United States Veterans that have served this country and are at rest. The program will start at 10:00 A.M. and conclude around 10:45 A.M. The services will include support from multiple veteran organizations. Volunteers will be able to assist with wreath placement of all donated wreaths."

  • Dec. 16, 10 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.
  • National Cemetery of Arizona
  • 23029 Cave Creek Rd., Phoenix

December 15

Arizona National Horse Show

"Rain or shine, horse men and women from all over the West travel to participate in the AQHA-Approved Quarter Horse Show, competing in events such as Ranch Riding, Reining, Halter and more."

'Twas the Night Before by Cirque du Soleil 

"A festive flurry of love and cheer created especially for families, ‘Twas the Night Before… features thrilling acrobatics, lovable characters - and a soundtrack including holiday classics re-invented by Cirque du Soleil."

Walk Through Christmas

"Walk Through Christmas is a holiday event for children and adults of all ages. The event includes a Live Nativity, Candy Cane Forest, Free Professional Photo Booth, Free Hot Cocoa, Crafts for the Kids, Live Christmas Music, and Lots of Christmas Lights." 

December 14

Crisco Kidd hosts 17th annual Ton of Toys and Food Drive + Distribution

"The drive will benefit UMOM New Day Centers, which serves nearly 700 individuals experiencing homelessness – 155 families and 130 single women, and offers more than 550 units of affordable housing across the Valley; and the Who I Am Foundation and Mindful Wellness, which helps more than 150 underprivileged families and 300 children throughout Metro Phoenix. St. Mary’s Food Bank has signed on to be the official food beneficiary for the event. "

  • Donate: Dec. 14 - 16, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.
  • Toy distribution: Dec. 17, 8 a.m. - 10 a.m.
  • Walmart
  • 5250 W. Indian School Rd., Phoenix
  • http://criscoskids.org

The Farmers Market + The Phoestivus Hangover

"Admission and smiles are free! Phoestivus is fur-family friendly Your purchases & donations support Community Food Connections & the Downtown Phoenix Farmers Market a registered 501c3 nonprofit supporting local growers & businesses."

December 13

12 Days of Snowfall

"Watch as snow magically falls from the sky, transforming Tempe Marketplace into a winter wonderland – Every night at 7 & 8 p.m. starting December 13th through Christmas Eve, near the District Stage. Make your very own Arizona snowmen and snow angels and enjoy the magic of snow in the desert only at Tempe Marketplace."

Arizona Lights in the Night

"Arizona Lights In The Night is Arizona's newest family friendly holiday drive-thru event. Pack the kids in the car and and drive though this 1 mile drive-thru of sequenced lights to holiday themed music."

December 9

Fuel Fest

"Join us for tons of action and activities from show cars sitting atop beautiful green grass to drift cars putting on an amazing show with competition-style ride alongs and tandem battles! FuelFest features over 600+ show cars ranging from American Muscle, JDM & Imports, Euro, Rare and Custom Exotics, Movie Cars and more!"

Holiday Historic Home Tour

"The Historic Home Tour will feature 10 homes in various architectural styles including Craftsman Bungalow, Spanish Colonial Revival, Tudor Revival, Mission Revival, Pueblo Revival and Ranch, decorated for the holidays, in the West Second Street and Evergreen historic districts. This is the first time since before the pandemic that Mesa historic homes will open to the public."

"Tickets are $20 and are available online or on the evening of the tour until 7 p.m. at Haus 109, located at 109 W. University Drive. Online ticket holders will need to check in at Haus 109 to get wristbands and a souvenir book and map of the tour locations. No one is allowed inside the homes without a wristband."

  • Dec. 9, 4 p.m. - 8 p.m.
  • Check-in location: Haus 109 Venue (109 W University Dr., Mesa))
  • Tickets: $20 - purchase at https://www.mesahistoricalmuseum.com
  • Benefits the Mesa Historical Museum

Holiday Pop Up Shop Event

Ignite Hope Walk

"Ignite Hope is an event where families, neighbors, friends and loved ones enjoy an afternoon of food, games and photos with Santa. Then, as the sun sets, thousands of people walk from North High School to Phoenix Children’s with Santa and Mrs. Claus at the helm and candles lighting up the night sky in love and solidarity."

Local Love: Holiday Market

"Shoppers looking to wow their gift recipients this holiday season should attend the Local Love: Holiday Market on Saturday, Dec. 9, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Tracy Dempsey Originals/ODV Wines."

Loma Verde Market Christmas Event

"While Santa is available for pictures and presents for children, a live band will be performing for your enjoyment. Walk around and support local small businesses for all your holiday shopping needs. If shopping is not your thing, come grab some homemade BBQ. There is something for everybody at this event, come on out to kick off the holiday season!"

Loma Verde Evening Market

"Come down and hang out a bit. There's shopping, food, Santa pictures and live music from the band Grupo Generación."

Merriment in Melrose

"Music and Merriment benefits the Osborn School District Music Program. This afternoon event includes Music on two stages, Santa, Kids Activities and over 75 Arts and Crafts Vendors for you to do Holiday Shopping with!"

Reindeer Roll and Stroll

"Explore Downtown Mesa in this free scavenger hunt for a chance to win great prizes, including a bicycle. Participants can enjoy the sights and sounds of holidays. This event is self-guided where you set the pace, the route, what items or tasks you find, and in what order. All ages and abilities are welcome to compete as a team or individually. All you need is your own mobile device with social media or a digital camera to participate."

West Valley Wonderland

"Experience the magic of the holiday season at West Valley Wonderland, the ultimate festive event December 9 and 10, 2023, at State Farm Stadium. From 10am - 6pm, explore a variety of vendors offering unique crafts, perfect for finding that special holiday gift. Feel the thrill of exhilarating rides that will make your heart race and bring smiles to everyone's faces. Engage in friendly competition with exciting games that challenge your skills and offer fantastic prizes. Indulge in delicious food and beverage options, satisfying your taste buds with seasonal delights."

December 8

Ballet Arizona's "The Nutcracker"

"Follow Clara’s wintry adventures as she battles mischievous mice and charms the Sugar Plum Fairy. With 150 performers, 100,000 Swarovski crystals, and Tchaikovsky’s cherished score performed live, Ballet Arizona’s The Nutcracker is the best way to celebrate the holidays with friends and family!"

  • Dec. 8-10, 14-17, 21-24
  • Phoenix Symphony Hall
  • 75 N. 2nd St., Phoenix
  • Tickets start at $39
  • https://balletaz.org

Mesa Santa Express

"In the tradition of that magical train, carrying children to meet Santa Claus, join us as we zoom down Merry Main Street. In our special Light Rail car, we will sing songs, enjoy cookies, and best of all meet Santa!"

Western Holidays at Stagecoach Village

  • Dec. 8 - 10
  • Friday: 2 p.m. - 8 p.m.
  • Saturday: 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.
  • Sunday: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
  • 7100 E. Cave Creek Rd., Cave Creek
  • https://westernholidayscc.com

December 7

Art in the Park

"Mesa residents are able to help create a work of art for the new City Hall during Art in the Park, a series of unique and interactive free family-friendly events that bring art, crafts and music to our neighborhoods."

  • Dec. 7, 5 p.m. - 7 p.m.
  • Jefferson Park
  • 306 S. Jefferson, Mesa

Sunset Market

"A variety of local vendors specializing in fresh grocery products, tasty hot food, artisan goods, and so much more! Including live music and demonstrations every market!"

Pearl Harbor Remembrance

"The Commemorative Air Force Museum at Falcon Field Airport, located at 2017 N. Greenfield Road, will honor the day and those lost in the attack with a dedication of the USS Arizona bulkhead at 1 p.m. The ceremony will include the Mesa High School AFJROTC presenting the colors and Desert Valley Winds Brass Ensemble providing music."

  • Dec. 7, 1 p.m.
  • Commemorative Air Force Museum
  • Falcon Field Airport
  • 2017 N. Greenfield Road, Mesa

Menorah Lighting

"Mayor John Giles and Rabbi Laib Blotner with Chabad-Lubavitch of Mesa will participate in the ceremony celebrating the start of Hanukkah."

  • Dec. 7, 6:30 p.m.
  • Across from The Post at 26 N. Macdonald, Mesa

December 6

Old Brick House Vintage Market

"Old Brick House is a monthly vintage market where you’ll find one of a kind pieces for your home.  Our six designers travel the country gathering unique items and then skillfully stage them to create inspiring spaces."

December 5

Merry Main Street activities in Mesa

December 4

Christmas at the Princess

"Throughout the holiday season, a touch of magic is added by more than 7.5 million sparkling LED lights. Go ice skating in the desert, meet cheerful holiday characters, roast marshmallows and make s'mores under star-filled skies. On every evening of the season, catch a splendid seven-minute light show choreographed to match the four-story musical holiday tree."

Free Santa photos for families

"Come join us for a jolly time at our FREE Photos with Santa event! Get into the holiday spirit and capture precious memories with Santa Claus himself. Bring your family and friends to East Valley ER & Hospital to create lasting memories."

  • Dec. 4 - 17
  • Weekdays: 4 p.m. - 7 p.m.
  • Weekends: 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
  • Dec. 18 - 23: by appointment
  • East Valley ER & Hospital
  • 5656 S. Power Rd., Gilbert
  • 602-830-4911
  • https://www.facebook.com/Eastvalleyer

December 3

North Valley Chorale's "Gloria!" - a holiday concert

Sit. Stay. Brunch.

"Lost Our Home Pet Rescue’s Annual Holiday Sit. Stay. Brunch. is coming to the Hilton Scottsdale Resort and Villas on Sunday, December 3, 2023 at 10 a.m. "

December 2

Community Vendor & Food Truck Market

"Shop local makers, small businesses, food trucks, photos with Santa and the Grinch and much more!"

Visits with Santa

"Make it a magical day at the Museum! Share your holiday wish with Santa, experiment with salt and water on colossal colorful ice blocks, and frolic under snow flurries in the Museum’s Atrium."

December 2

APS Electric Light Parade

  • Dec. 2, 7 p.m.
  • Starts at Central and Montebello avenues
  • Ends at 7th St. and Indian School Road
  • Day of parade road closures: Central Ave. from Camelback to Bethany Home Rd. 7th St. from Indian School Rd. to Osborn Rd. Camelback Rd from 1st Ave. to 7th St.
  • Central Ave. from Camelback to Bethany Home Rd.
  • 7th St. from Indian School Rd. to Osborn Rd.
  • Camelback Rd from 1st Ave. to 7th St.
  • https://www.phoenix.gov

Grinch movie and PJ party

"Presented by Illumination, there’s an ugly sweater contest and a Whoville costume contest. Dozens of vendors will offer items for holiday shopping. In addition to a traditional holiday night market, there is a kids market with kid-friendly prices. The event starts at 4 p.m. Grab dinner from participating food trucks then settle down to see the film at 5 p.m."

  • Dec. 2, 4 p.m.
  • Centennial Park
  • 9875 N. 85th Ave., Peoria

Hawaiian Holiday Market

"Enjoy Hawaiian food, live music, fire knife dancing, hula dance demonstrations, shopping and children’s activities."

December 1

Armer Foundation Holiday Toy Drive

"From November 13, 2023, to December 18, 2023, we invite you to join us in spreading joy and making the holiday season brighter for children in need. Our Toy Drive is dedicated to collecting new, unwrapped toys that will bring smiles to kids from newborns to teenagers."

  • Through Dec. 18
  • Benefits Banner Cardon Pediatric Intensive Care and Oncology units
  • https://armerfoundation.org/toydrive
  • Drop off locations:
  • Ahwatukee Children's Theatre - 11011 S. 48th St., Suite B-10, Phoenix
  • Armer Foundation – 9830 S. 51st St. Suite A128, Phoenix
  • Art of Framing - 7650 S. McClintock Dr. #108, Tempe
  • Bill’s Grill - 333 S Montezuma St, Prescott, AZ
  • Hillside Spot - 4740 E. Warner Rd., Phoenix
  • Lakeside Bar & Grill - 9980 W. Happy Valley Rd., Peoria
  • Lifestyle Performance Training - 7890 S. Hardy Dr. #115, Tempe
  • MacLay Real Estate - 800 S. Alma School Rd., Suite 118, Chandler
  • Newman Auto Network - 3801 E. Roeser Rd. #15, Phoenix
  • Pilates Tempe - 8729 S. Kyrene Rd., Suite 110, Tempe
  • Post Net (Ahwatukee) - 611 E. Chandler Blvd. #112, Phoenix
  • Red, White & Brew - 6740 E. McDowell Rd. #102, Mesa
  • Red, White & Brew - 200 E Gurley St, Prescott
  • Randy's Restaurant - 7904 E. Chaparral Rd., Scottsdale
  • 32 Shea - 10626 N. 32nd St., Phoenix
  • Wren Südhalle - 4025 E. Chandler Blvd. Suite 1, Phoenix
  • U & Improved (collecting December 3rd only) – Courtyard Marriott Scottsdale Salt River, 5201 N. Pima Rd, Scottsdale

Christmas at Schnepf Farms

"Experience a winter wonderland like no other with seasonal food, fun and festivities for the whole family. Catch a ride on the World of Illumination Express, hop on a hayride to visit Rudolph or journey through Santa’s magic workshop."

Desert Farm Lights

"Follow the wafting scent of freshly-baked gingerbread through a winter wonderland at Desert Farm Lights, the West Valley holiday light installation returning to Justice Brothers Ranch in Waddell. Happening Nov. 17 through Dec. 31, this year’s 8-acre event will feature a multitude of activations for all ages, including a horse-drawn hayride, DIY toy shop, a 90 ft. fun slide, holiday train ride, giant snow globes and much more."

Enchant Christmas in Scottsdale

"Enchant is an immersive experience weaving magic into its every corner, perfect for joyful seasonal celebrations. Adventure through The Mischievous Elf, a captivating, larger-than-life light maze that is the cornerstone to the Enchant experience."

  • Through Dec. 31
  • Salt River Fields at Talking Stick
  • 7555 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale, AZ
  • Tickets start at $31 adults, $23 kids
  • https://enchantchristmas.com

Glendale Glitters

"Glendale Glitters is a display of lights around Murphy Park in downtown Glendale and so much more! This year’s celebration includes the annual Hometown Christmas Parade, various performances at the Murphy Park Amphitheatre, our Movies by Moonlight series and LIBCON West at the Velma Teague Library."

Las Noches De Las Luminarias

"Enjoy an evening filled with sparkling luminaria-lit trails and twinkling holiday lights. Musical performances, entertainment and festive food and drinks available for a picture-perfect night. "

  • Dec. 1-2, 8-9, 15-16, 19-23, 26-30
  • Desert Botanical Garden
  • 5:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
  • General admission starts at $39.95 adults, $16.95 youth
  • https://dbg.org

Mesa Neighborhood Job Fair

"Attendees will have the chance to meet and network with Mesa employers from various industries, participate in on-the-spot interviews and get resume tips and interview guidance."

  • Dec. 1, 3 p.m. - 6 p.m.
  • Dec. 2, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
  • Eagles Community Center
  • 828 E. Broadway Rd., Mesa

Mesa Temple Christmas Light Display

"In addition to walking the beautifully lit temple grounds, visitors can feel the spirit of Christmas at the International Nativity Display housed in the adjacent Visitors’ Center. All activities are open to the public, free of charge, and family friendly."

New & Like-New Book Sale

"Get gift-quality books at amazing prices! Our New & Like-New Book Sale runs Monday, November 27 to Saturday, December 30 at the Main Library. All money raised from book sales goes to supporting library programs, improvements and services."

Skate Westgate

"Kids & adults are invited to partake in a timeless holiday tradition – outdoor ice skating on our real ice rink! Make magical memories with your loved ones as you glide through an unforgettable winter wonderland. All skill levels are welcome, whether you’re performing pirouettes or strapping on skates for the first time."

Tempe Festival of the Arts

"As many as 350 artist booths line Mill Avenue and the surrounding streets presenting unique, and hand-made artwork that offers visitors a distinctive shopping experience."

"The Tempe Festival of the Arts is located on the city streets of downtown Tempe, on Mill Avenue between 3rd Street and University Parkway, and on 5th Street between Myrtle and Ash Avenue."

West Phoenix Hiring Event

"Come on out this Friday, December 1 for a West Phoenix Hiring Event for mental health careers at the Lifewell Desert Cove location. Join the Lifewell Team! Bring Your Resume for On-site Interviews – we’re seeking case managers, rehab specialists, benefit specialists and other positions. Learn more about our latest hiring expo for professionals in the healthcare and mental health fields here at Lifewell this week."

World of Illumination: Cosmic Sleighride

"Climb aboard your cosmic sleigh with your host Shiny the Star on a mystical holiday adventure that is out of this world at Cosmic Sleighride produced by World of Illumination. Shoot past the sun, race among the stars and pass through Kris Kringle’s celestial portal where toys prepare for launch. Orbit around a team of astro elves hoverboarding through the cosmos as you enter the stratosphere of Santa City, where all the holiday magic happens. Hold on to your seat — you’re in for one stellar ride."

World of Illumination: Reindeer Road

"A merrily magical journey."