As the rest of the country bundles up for winter, Arizona embraces the season with a lively array of festivals from November to February. These celebrations brim with holiday cheer, diverse cultural experiences, and unique entertainment, making Arizona a vibrant winter destination for locals and visitors alike.
1. Festival of Lights and Boat Parade of Lights, Lake Havasu City
Photo: Marcel De Lima/Shutterstock
- When: November 24 – January 7 (Parade: December 9)
- Highlights: Over 500,000 lights illuminating English Village and a mesmerizing boat parade under the iconic London Bridge.
2. Las Noches de las Luminarias, Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix
Photo: Desert Botanical Garden
- When: Various dates in November and December
- Highlights: A Southwestern holiday celebration with 8,000 luminarias, live performances, and the Fernando Botero: El Maestro exhibition.
3. Christmas Parades, Village, and Christkindl Market, Prescott
Photo: Pamela Au/Shutterstock
- When: Various dates in November and December
- Highlights: A charming Christmas city hosting holiday light parades, Christmas markets, and a joyful atmosphere.
4. Tempe Festival of the Arts
Photo: Tempe Festival of Arts
- When: December 1-3
- Highlights: This long-standing festival attracts artists and visitors with a carnival-like ambiance and a diverse showcase of creativity.
5. Tucson Fourth Avenue Street Fair
Photo: Jill Richards
- When: December 8-10
- Highlights: A colorful fair featuring artists, local vendors, live music, and engaging activities for all ages.
6. Wings Over Willcox Birding & Nature Festival
Photo: Pete Niesen/Shutterstock
- When: January 11-14
- Highlights: A birdwatcher’s paradise, offering nature excursions and exploring Willcox’s cultural heritage.
7. Parada del Sol and Arizona Indian Festival, Scottsdale
Photo: Parada del Sol
- When: February 3-4
- Highlights: A rich celebration of Wild West history, horse-drawn parades, and cultural honors from various tribes.
8. Hoop Dance Championship, Phoenix
Photo: Heard Museum
- When: February 17-18
- Highlights: A captivating display of hoop dancing traditions featuring skilled performers at the Heard Museum.
9. Tucson Rodeo & Parade, Tucson
- When: February 17-25
- Highlights: A historic rodeo event with parades, competitions, and a vibrant celebration of Western heritage.
10. Sedona International Film Festival, Sedona
Photo: Sedona Film Festival
- When: February 24 – March 3
- Highlights: Film enthusiasts gather to enjoy an array of international films, workshops, and engaging discussions.
This curated list showcases the diversity and richness of Arizona’s winter festivals. Whether you seek holiday lights, cultural heritage, or artistic expressions, these events offer something for everyone to revel in.
Source: AAA