Get ready to experience the magic and wonder of the most festive time of year! Plan a cozy evening with friends and family, and explore Tucson’s best holiday light attractions this holiday season. From a desert-inspired snowman to one of the biggest arts and shopping events in the local calendar, here is our best and brightest list of holiday light festivals taking place in Tucson.
Winterhaven Festival of Lights
Reserving a ride on a hay wagon is the best way to experience the Winterhaven Festival of Lights. This is one of the longest-running holiday traditions in Tucson, and one of the oldest light festivals in the country. This 71st annual neighborhood event showcases enchanting displays of holiday spirit, by decorating trees and homes with thousands of twinkling lights and crafty displays. The festival is free for everyone to enjoy on foot. Step up the excitement by booking a bus trolley, pedal-powered group bike, or the iconic hayride wagon.
Read more about the Winterhaven Festival of Lights >
Fourth Avenue Winter Street Fair
The Fourth Avenue Winter Street Fair is Tucson’s premier community event! This 51-year-old festival is held on December 10, 11 & 12, 2021, and is one of the biggest arts and shopping events in the area. The fair brings together more than 200 arts and craft booths, plus food vendors, and dozens of musicians, jugglers, and other street performers. Bring your holiday shopping list and find some unique gifts while the kids have their faces painted and create some art of their own.
Read more about Fourth Avenue Winter Street Fair >
Zoolights at Reid Park Zoo
Get ready for Holiday Magic, twinkling lights, hot chocolate, and family fun! Zoolights at Reid Park Zoo is a long held Tucson holiday tradition. Experience the grounds transformed into a winter wonderland complete with falling snow and nightly visits from Santa! Glittering lights illuminate the beautiful Zoo grounds while the residents sleep. ZooLights begins with a Members-only night on December 2 and then opens to the public from December 3-23. Encore Nights planned for December 26-30, after Santa leaves to the North Pole of course.
Read more about Zoo Lights at Reid Park Zoo >
Holiday Nights at Tohono Chul
The exclusive holiday nights at Tohono Chul is planned for 2 weekends only, on December 10 – 11th and 17th – 18th. Explore the winter wonderland botanical garden, with a desert-themed twist. Stroll along paths garlanded with over a million twinkling lights while musicians and artists perform. Sip hot chocolate and enjoy a tasty treat from the Bistro; doors open at 5:30 pm till 8:00 pm.
Read more about Holiday Nights at Tohono Chul >
Whether a boisterous group bike ride with friends or the quiet discovery of local art is on your agenda, Tucson has an event for everyone. Let us know which one is your favorite in the comments. We hope you’ve found this guide useful and can fit these events into your holiday plans.
At Stargate West we offer off-campus student accommodation ideally located near the University of Arizona. Enjoy luxurious resort-style amenities and large spacious bedrooms. Click here to find out more about our student accommodation.