The holiday season is here, and the East Valley has transformed into a festive wonderland with activities for everyone to enjoy. Here’s your guide to local holiday fun.
QC Hometown Christmas
Join the Town of Queen Creek in celebrating the most wonderful time of the year at the QC Hometown Christmas. On Friday, Dec. 6 enjoy an evening of holiday cheer from 6 – 8 p.m. The festivities continue on Saturday, Dec. 7 from 10 a.m. to noon with a hometown Christmas parade down Ellsworth Road. The parade will begin at Maya and travel south to Aldecoa.
Where: Queen Creek; see town website for specifics on event location and parade route. Cost: Free.
More information: QueenCreekAZ.gov/QCHometownChristmas
Christmas at Schnepf Farms
From the “World’s Largest Inflatable Obstacle Course” to ice skating, Santa’s reindeer hayride, glow in the dark mini golf, visits with Santa, a Christmas carousel and more, Christmas at Schnepf Farms has it all. There’s something for everyone to do along Santa Claus Lane.
Where: 24810 S. Rittenhouse Road, Queen Creek.
Cost: Prices range from $19.95 to $27.95.
More information: schnepfchristmas.com.
Arizona Lights in the Night
Arizona Lights in the Night returns with over a million synchronized holiday lights in an immersive, drive-through experience at Mesa's Thompson Event Center. The mile-long show features spectacular displays choreographed to holiday music, perfect for everyone—whether you’re celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or simply embracing the festive spirit. Guests can buy tickets on select nights through Dec. 28. Where: 1901 N. Alma School Rd., Mesa.
Cost: $26.95 per vehicle.
More information: arizonalightsinthenight.com.
Winter Wonderland Holiday Tea
Enjoy a festive "Winter Wonderland" afternoon tea at Drink Me! Tea Room in Tempe available through Dec. 31. The plant-based, gluten-free tea room offers seasonal treats, holiday teas, and themed cocktails. Make your reservation and dress in your holiday best! Where: 1730 E. Warner Road, Suite 5, Tempe.
Cost: $64 per person for the Winter Wonderland Full Afternoon Tea; other options available.
More information: drinkmetearoom.com.
Valor Christmas Light Show
Formally Lights at the Farm at Vertuccio Farms, the Valor Christmas Light Show features over 2 million synchronized LED lights at the Valor Christian Center in Gilbert. This family-friendly, walk-through event features captivating displays set to classic Christmas songs showcased over 2.5 acres. Shows will be available through Dec. 28.
Where: 3015 E. Warner Road, Gilbert.
Cost: Weekday tickets $10.95; weekend tickets $12.95.
More information: arizonachristmaslights.com.
Pratt Brothers Christmas
The Pratt Brothers are bringing back the biggest Christmas celebration in Arizona. Through Dec. 29, the Rawhide Western Town will be decked out in over 7 million lights across the 15 acre holiday experience. There will be a holiday express train ride, nightly parade, holiday shopping, Santa meet-and-greets and more! Look forward to their giant gingerbread house light show featuring pyrotechnics.
Where: 5700 E. N Loop Road, Chandler.
Cost: General admission is $29 per person, VIP tickets available at additional cost.
More information: prattbrotherschristmas.com.
