Here Are The 7 Most Enchanting, Magical Christmas Towns In Arizona
Ready to get into the holiday spirit in just a few days? 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. (I know a few of my neighbors certainly did). Either way, if you’re looking for some fantastic holiday events, look no further! We have a nice list of the most Christmas-y places in the state where it won’t be difficult to find some holiday-filled cheer throughout the month.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
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! Check out the North Pole Experience at the Little America Hotel where kids will get a chance to meet Santa Claus, work alongside the elves, and enjoy some tasty treats. Other fun activities include special holiday tours at the Riordan Mansion State Historic Park where you can see lovely Victorian era holiday decorations and traditions.
Glendale Glitters is the main attraction to this West Valley city but the fun doesn’t stop there. You can find events and festivals happening every weekend with live music, movies, and art events all happening downtown.
Want to wander through a Christmas village when the temperatures are a little warmer than freezing? Lake Havasu’s English village by the London Bridge is the perfect place to experience a little bit of Old World charm made even more magical by the endless lights.
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 skate rink. The Temple Gardens lights and concerts will bring a more subdued holiday feeling.
The number of Christmas events you’ll find in our state’s largest city is probably too large to figure out but there are plenty of festivities all over the city. You’ll find some classic things 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. Plus museums, businesses, churches, and even a few neighborhoods have their own holiday events all ready to go.
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 events happening almost every day. The highlights to see here are the annual courthouse lighting and the Frontier Christmas event at the Sharlot Hall Museum.
Hopefully, this inspired you to get out of the house and enjoy the holidays with your loved ones! Be sure to let us know some of your favorite Christmas spots.
For more Christmas cheer, you might want to check out the Polar Express ride in Williams, which offers a fun-filled experience the entire family can enjoy.
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Monica is a Diné (Navajo) freelance writer and photographer based in the Southwest. Born in Gallup and raised in Phoenix, she is Tódich'ii'nii (Bitter Water People) and Tsi'naajinii (Black Streak Wood People). Monica is a staff writer for Only In Your State, photo editor for The Mesa Legend, and previously a staff writer for The Navajo Post. You can reach her at [email protected]
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