The desert may not get a blanket of snow in December, but Phoenix and Scottsdale know how to bring that Christmas magic. It’s amazing to witness the desert transform into a festive and bright destination for all your Christmas celebrations. Twinkling lights, holiday markets and family-friendly fun are just some of the things you can expect. Come create happy holiday memories when you visit the top Arizona Christmas activities and attractions in Phoenix and Scottsdale. Fully embrace the holiday spirit with a luxury vacation rental from Manor Retreats.

Pioneer Winter Wonderland at Pioneer Living History Museum

Step back in time with a visit to the Pioneer Winter Wonderland at the Pioneer Living History Museum. This event brings classic Christmas traditions to the Old West! Wander through a recreated village from the 1800s to see horse drawn wagons, holiday crafts, and historic buildings decorated for Christmas. A bonus is that Santa, his elves, and his reindeer will be available here for a meet and greet! There’s even live cowboy shows, light displays, carnival rides, food and more entertainment. Pioneer Winter Wonderland will be your one stop shop for all things Christmas in Phoenix.

Free Scottsdale Sparkle Christmas Market

If you need to finish up your holiday shopping, Scottsdale has you covered with the Free Scottsdale Sparkle Christmas Market. The event is free to attend. Come browse the market with vendors selling holiday décor, handmade treasures, and unique gifts. There’s also entertainment, holiday treats and plenty of sparkling twinkle lights. After you experience the joy of shopping at the Sparkle Christmas Market, you won’t ever want to shop anywhere else for the holidays!

Skate Westgate During an Arizona Christmas

Did you ever think you could ice skate in the desert? Well, you can this Christmas at Skate Westgate! This event happens in Glendale, 20 minutes from Phoenix, but it’s worth the trip. Lace up your skates and get ready to glide on the ice. Show off your skating skills surrounded by holiday decorations, music, and the beauty of the desert. Warm up with hot cocoa and holiday snacks as you create happy holiday memories.

Christmas at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess

Experience a Christmas celebration unlike any other at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. Their annual event is a real treat. The resort morphs into a veritable North Pole, with twinkle lights, a holiday train ride, ice slides and visits with Santa. You’ll love your time here, and so will your kiddoes. It’s a holiday experience worth visiting year after year.

ZooLights

A Christmas in Phoenix wouldn’t be complete without attending ZooLights at the Phoenix Zoo. Each year, the zoo illuminates with millions of lights, glowing animal sculptures and interactive displays. It’s a real sight to behold as you wander along the paths, smile at the displays and enjoy a selection of seasonal treats. Make plans to attend Phoenix’s brightest holiday tradition at ZooLights!

Las Noches de las Luminarias at Desert Botanical Garden

The Christmas lights continue at the Desert Botanical Garden during Las Noches de las Luminarias. Thousands of hand-lit luminarias light up the garden trails, creating a cozy golden glow over the desert. You can’t help but feel amazed as you walk around. Enjoy the live music, holiday performances and the beauty of the desert all dressed up for Christmas. This is a unique and peaceful activity to add to your Christmas in Phoenix.

Keep Your Christmas Traditions in a Manor Retreats Rental

Now that you know the top Christmas activities and attractions in Phoenix and Scottsdale, you need a place that keeps you central to it all. Consider reserving a luxury rental from Manor Retreats. These are more than your average vacation rental or hotel stay. These are spectacular desert villas and homes that can accommodate large families and groups of friends for a Christmas getaway.

The interiors are large, with spacious living areas, multiple bedrooms, and private outdoor spaces with luxury amenities you’ve been dreaming of. And they have everything you need to incorporate your own holiday traditions. Cook a Christmas feast, bake Christmas cookies, watch holiday movies and add simple decorations to make your vacation home feel like your very own.

Make it a desert Christmas to remember. Swim in your private pool. Enjoy moments of downtime playing games with family and friends in the game room. Get a good night’s sleep to fuel all your holiday adventures. These rentals are the perfect spaces to enjoy your Phoenix and Scottsdale vacation to the fullest this holiday season.

Book Your Christmas Rental Today

Don’t wait until the last minute to start planning the perfect Christmas getaway to Phoenix and Scottsdale. Make plans to attend these top Christmas activities and attractions and secure your holiday rental with Manor Retreats today. You’ll have everything you need to celebrate Christmas your way while enjoying the holiday activities in the desert. Reserve your stay today!