We are quickly approaching the 2016 Christmas Holidays and there are so many holiday events in and around Tucson not to miss. Even if you tried there is no way you could attend them all so here we’ve handpicked our top six. Whether you are a visitor of Tucson, a temporary resident or a true-blue local, Christmas time in Tucson is truly special and these events are the best way to get in the holiday spirit.
Four Avenue Winter Street Fair
With over 200 art and crafts booths, a plethora of food vendors, talented musicians and other street performers the 4th Ave Winter Street Fair is the perfect place to go to get into the Christmas Spirit. Support local artisans by buying Christmas gifts at the market this year. There is a kid’s pavilion for the little ones to play and explore. The entire street is shutdown during the weekends giving the fair a festival-like atmosphere.
Zoo Lights at Reid Park
Be mesmerized as the Reid Park Zoo gets transformed into a twinkling winter wonderland. The Zoo lights are a family favourite every holiday season with live entertainment amidst impressive light sculptures, snacks and hot chocolate, and a visit from Santa Claus himself. Although the zoo animals won’t be visible for the festivities there will be camel rides available for the kids.
A Southwest Nutcracker
We all know the classic Nutcracker performance but the Southwest Nutcracker is a local rendition brining spectators back to the Tucson of the 1880’s. Supporting the ballet is the renowned Tucson Symphony Orchestra making the event a truly spectacular evening not to be missed. The storyline follows the original Nutcracker tale but with coyotes, rattle snakes, and Western Cavalry to give it a unique Arizona spin!
Holiday Nights at Tohono Chul
Visit the vast Sonoran Desert at Tohono Chul Park and watch millions of lights illuminate the desert sands creating a visual spectacular to feast your eyes on. The entire botanical grounds will be transformed into a winter wonderland amidst desert backgrounds. There will be live music, snacks and treats and Christmas shopping available in the gift shop and art gallery.
Annual Downtown Parade of Lights
One of the biggest community events of the year the annual Downtown Parade of Lights which takes place every year in late December is a fusion of holiday fun, community spirit and cultural expression. This family friendly event is a great way to view colourful and charismatic floats which are judged by a panel. Festive music, snacks and performers add to this special event which is now in its 21st year.
Christmas at San Xavier Annual Concert
Enjoy music compilations by Bach, Schubert & Faure and other holidays favorites at the San Xavier Annual Concert. The setting of this special event is the historic San Xavier Mission and ticket sales go towards the restoration of the site which has great historic significance in the region. The concert features acts by the Sons of Orpheus and the Tucson Boys Chorus with many of the Christmas classics to be enjoyed.
A desert Christmas is like no other and whatever Tucson is lacking in terms of snow and cold weather is truly made up for in spirit and events during the holiday season. Make sure to check out some or all of these wonderful Tucson Christmas events and if you require a place to stay (either permanently or while visiting Tucson) make sure to check out Stargate West Apartments!