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10 Holiday Events You Don't Want to Miss!

The most wonderful time of the year is starting this month.

By Veronica Leon, Publisher of Macaroni KID Scottsdale, Paradise Valley & Arcadia November 1, 2021

We love the holiday season — the decorations, starry lights, religious displays and multicultural celebrations that light up cities and towns everywhere from November to January and many start this month! 

Here are a few to indulge the kids - and your own inner child.

1. Chilsdplay: Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical

The holiday classic soars off the screen in this musical adaptation of the beloved television special. Filled with holiday hits like "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" and "Holly Jolly Christmas," Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer™ features all of your favorite characters including Santa and Mrs. Claus, Hermey the Elf, Bumble the Abominable Snow Monster, Clarice, Yukon Cornelius and, of course, Rudolph. It’s an adventure that teaches us that what makes you different can be what makes you special. Dec. 4-19


2. Christmas at Schnepf Farms

Christmas has come to Schnepf Farms! Experience a winter wonderland like no other with seasonal food, fun and festivities for the whole family. Catch a ride on the Illumination Express, hop on a hayride to visit Rudolph or journey through Santa’s magic workshop. Whatever you choose, it’s all happening right here at Schnepf Farms. Nov 24-Dec. 31


3. Fairmont Scottsdale Princess - Christmas at the Princess

A holiday tradition for Scottsdale families for the past 12 years! This year, we are celebrating the magic of Christmas at the Princess. The magic of Christmas is how everyone cares a little more, hugs a little longer and loves a little harder. The world is transformed at Christmas. It is electrified by the light that shines within each and every one of us! Nov.16-Jan. 2


4. Holiday Light Experience - Salt River Fields at Talking Stick

New this year to the Holiday Light Experience at Salt River Fields is Santa’s Village. This magical spot welcomes one and all with hot chocolate, beverage & snacks, shopping for distinctive & handcrafted gifts, plus the new Holiday Light Theatre, a spectacle of dynamic, festive lights presented on a 20x20 screen. Nov.19-Jan. 1 


5. Lights At The Farm -Vertuccio Farm

Lights at the Farm and Vertuccio Farms have partnered together to bring Arizona’s Largest Walk-Thru Synchronized Light Show. Come on out and unwrap new traditions and make memories with your family and friends as you make your way through the dazzling lights, larger-than-life lighted displays, mesmerizing tunnel of lights and so much more. Welcome to Lights at the Farm! Nov. 19-Jan. 2.


6. Master Ballet Academy Students in Phoenix Ballet - Nutcracker

This December 10-23, 2021, join Phoenix Ballet as they present Slawomir Wozniak's Nutcracker at the gorgeous Orpheum Theatre in downtown Phoenix. Beautiful sets, festive costumes and superb dancing brings The Nutcracker to life complete with dancing mice, the magic of the Sugar Plum Fairy and a snowfall on stage. Come celebrate the holidays with Phoenix Ballet! Tickets start at $25. Perfect for the entire family! Dec.10-Dec. 23


7. McCormick Railroad Park Holiday Lights 

Hop on board the Paradise & Pacific Railroad and experience a winter wonderland of holiday lights and displays. No trip to the park is complete without a spin on the historic Charros Carousel or a cup of hot cocoa from Hartley’s General Store. Santa will also be at the park nightly through December 23 to visit and take photos with. Nov. 26-Jan. 2.


8. Phoenix Zoo Zoolights

Experience millions of twinkling lights, dazzling animal sculptures and two Music-in-Motion Light Shows on our main lake. Walk-Thru and Cruise options. Nov. 24-Jan.15.


9. Scottsdazzle Brings Holiday Spirit to City of Scottsdale 

Scottsdazzle, the City of Scottsdale’s popular holiday extravaganza that brings a variety of festive activities and fun events to residents and visitors alike, kicks off Saturday, November 27 with the signature Sing-Along & Tree Lighting Ceremony, during which an all new “dazzling” holiday tree will be unveiled, bringing even more beauty and light to the season! Activities and events take place at various locations around Old Town through December 31. Nov. 27-Dec.31.


10. World of Illumination - Glendale & Tempe Locations

World of Illumination — the producer of the world’s largest drive-through animated light show — is unveiling two new theme parks in the Phoenix-metro area. Desert Diamond Casino in Glendale will be home to Candy Rush and Tempe Diablo Stadium will house Reindeer Road. Both shows feature millions of colorful lights and hundreds of animated displays synchronized to popular and beloved holiday music. The shows’ construction is already underway and presale tickets are now on sale. Glendale location opens Nov. 12 & Tempe location opens Nov.17 every night until Jan. 3..