The 7 Best Christmas Towns In Arizona Filled With Holiday Cheer

Ready to embrace the holiday spirit? Or maybe you're already in the Christmas mood because you're one of those people who decorated their house with twinkle lights, ribbons, and mistletoe just a week after Halloween. Either way, if you're looking for some fantastic holiday events in the Grand Canyon State, look no further! We have a magical list of the best Christmas towns in Arizona, where it won't be difficult to find some holiday-filled cheer throughout the month. Ready to start exploring?

1. Flagstaff

The city sitting near the base of the San Francisco Peaks is bound to be one of the top winter destinations every year for its cold weather, snowy days, and lovely main street. Plus, it also doubles as the North Pole! Flagstaff is the home of the one-of-a-kind North Pole Experience at the Little America Hotel. Within this magical wonderland, folks are transported to a storybook dream by way of an enchanting trolley ride, where they are led to Santa's Workshop. Once inside, kids will get a chance to meet Santa Claus, work alongside the elves, and immerse themselves in the magic of the holiday.

Other merry Flagstaff activities include special holiday tours at the Riordan Mansion State Historic Park, where you can see lovely Victorian-era holiday decorations and traditions. Starting in December, the historic mansion is festooned with turn-of-the-century style garlands, wreaths, and vintage ornaments. Guided tours provide a treasured glimpse into Christmas traditions old and new at this stately dwelling.

2. Glendale

Glendale Glitters is the main attraction of this West Valley city, but the fun doesn’t stop there. You can find enchanting events and festivals happening every weekend with live music, movies, and art events all happening downtown. Then there's the array of Christmas events at The Americana at Brand. Nightly snowfall, a dazzlingly decked-out Christmas tree, and visits with Santa make this city a winter haven for holiday enthusiasts. It's just one of many reasons why Glendale is one of the downright best Christmas towns in Arizona.

3. Lake Havasu City

Want to wander through a Christmas village when the temperatures are a little warmer than freezing? Lake Havasu’s English village by the grand London Bridge is the perfect place to experience a little bit of old-world charm, made even more magical by the endless lights. During this time, the city holds numerous holiday events, from the Festival of Lights to its glittering procession of colorful vessels during the Lake Havasu City Boat Parade of Lights.

4. Mesa

This Phoenix suburb has quite a few Christmas events going on, many similar to those happening in Phoenix but on a smaller, less crowded scale. You’ll find Main Street all lit up with lights and a huge Christmas tree, plus an ice skating rink. The Mesa Temple lights and holiday displays will bring a more subdued holiday feeling. Head on over to Mesa's visitor website for more information about what's going on this season.

5. Phoenix

When it comes to the best Christmas towns in Arizona, the city of Phoenix certainly impresses. The number of Christmas events you’ll find in our state’s largest city is probably too large to count, but there are plenty of festivities all over the city. You’ll find some classic events, like the annual Electric Light Parade held on Central Avenue and holiday concerts, as well as the impressive ice rink set up in the CityScape development. The Desert Botanical Garden also hosts Las Noches de las Luminarias this time of year, in which glowing luminaria paths can be found throughout the garden. Plus, museums, businesses, churches, and even the Phoenix Zoo have their own holiday events all ready to go.

6. Prescott

Designated Arizona’s Christmas City by Governor Mofford in 1989, Prescott has been impressing families for years with their numerous light displays, a light parade, and community events happening almost every day. A few of Prescott's holiday highlights include the annual courthouse lighting and the Frontier Christmas event filled with nostalgic activities and history at the Sharlot Hall Museum. There’s also the Prescott Christmas Village & Christkindl Market—a German-style market filled with handmade gifts, holiday ornaments, food vendors, and festive entertainment.

7. Tucson

Last but certainly not least on our list of the best Christmas towns in Arizona, Tucson definitely belongs on your radar this season. From cultural events to illuminated light displays, musical performances, and more, Tucson truly has a little bit of everything. Downtown Tucson holds over 60 beautifully lit buildings. The Winterhaven neighborhood is also a special sight to see. Filled with stunning displays for their Festival of Lights, guests can either walk the neighborhood or take a tour from a trolley or hayride.

Hopefully, this list of the best Christmas towns in Arizona has inspired you to get out of the house and enjoy the holidays with your loved ones! The Grand Canyon State is filled with merriment and joy, from Arizona neighborhoods that go all out with their decorations to communities that know how to spread the holiday spirit. For even more Christmas cheer, consider the Polar Express train ride in Williams, which offers a fun-filled experience the entire family can enjoy.

Ready to embark on your own holiday adventure? Be sure to download Only In Your State’s itinerary planner for a perfect yuletide trip powered by AI!