11 Winter Festivals In Arizona That Are Simply Unforgettable
Looking for some fun activities to get you out of the house this holiday season? Or maybe you need a few interesting ways to keep your kids entertained once winter vacation begins? Here are a few winter festivals happening over the next few weeks that you won’t want to miss!

This festival actually lasts for most of the month in anticipation of Christmas day. Enjoy the annual town lighting and impressive nativity displays. The rest of the month includes a variety of Christmas programs, concerts, markets, and other activities.
Dates: December 1-21
Information: Link
Dates: December 1-21
Information: Link

If you are looking for something to do after the new year, definitely consider attending the annual Havasu Balloon Festival! This fun festival will not only give you a chance to see the balloons rise over Bridgewater Channel but you can also ride them and watch bi-plane shows.
Dates: January 13-15
Information: Link
Dates: January 13-15
Information: Link

Now in its ninth year, the Carefree Christmas Festival is one fun, free event that will help your entire family get into the Christmas spirit. Enjoy activities like watching a light parade, meeting Santa, and playing in the snow.
Dates: December 9-11
Information: Link
Dates: December 9-11
Information: Link

If you’re looking for a Christmas event that is a little more western, check out this two-day event in Wickenburg. Enjoy readings by notable cowboy poets and other entertainment.
Dates: December 2-3
Information: Link
Dates: December 2-3
Information: Link

Celebrating more than two decades of family fun, Tempe’s Fantasy of Lights hosts a parade of motorized boats decorated just in time for the holidays.
Date: December 10
Information: Link
Date: December 10
Information: Link

If nothing quite gets you into the Christmas mood like seeing a beautifully decorated evergreen then you need to stop by this festival where you will see dozens of these trees at the Arboretum at Flagstaff. The trees are available through raffle and you can enjoy seeing these along with the Arboretum’s winter garden.
Dates: Now-December 3
Information: Link
Dates: Now-December 3
Information: Link

Held annually, this event brings Indigenous cultures and art into the holiday season with live performances, art demonstrations, and fresh fry bread.
Dates: December 26-30
Information: Link
Dates: December 26-30
Information: Link

Located a few miles southeast of Kingman at Hualapai Mountain Park, this festival takes you into the pines for winter fun with Santa. Enjoy hay rides, cookies, and hot cocoa with the big guy for a family-friendly event.
Dates: December 3-4
Information: Link
Dates: December 3-4
Information: Link

This tradition is one of the many luminaria displays happening around the state and shows off the beautiful, historic town. Enjoy walking the lit streets with some music and even a visit from Santa himself.
Dates: December 2-3
Information: Link
Dates: December 2-3
Information: Link

Is there any more romantic place to see winter than in Sedona’s red rock country? You can enjoy a magical Christmas by attending this event which has an amazing number of activities happening all month long.
Dates: December 1-January 1
Information: Link
Dates: December 1-January 1
Information: Link

Sponsored by a group of ASU graduates, the Somerton Tamale Festival is one delicious event you need to attend! You can enjoy dozens of handmade tamales that are savory, sweet, or extra spicy, in addition to music and art. The best part is that proceeds help provide scholarships to ASU for local high school seniors.
Date: December 17
Information: Link
Date: December 17
Information: Link
Want to find some amazing light displays around the state? Check out our article, 12 Christmas Light Displays In Arizona That Are Pure Magic, for details!
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