14 Fun Things to do this Holiday Season in Northern Arizona
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After living in Flagstaff for several years, I can say that the city works well as both a summer and winter tourist destination. I really can’t choose between both seasons as I love both hiking and snowshoeing in the mountains. Northern Arizona enjoys a climate and atmosphere drastically different from that of the Sonoran desert.
In addition to a 4 season climate (including plenty of snow in the winter) skiing, snowshoeing, and any other winter recreational activity you can think of can be enjoyed. The pine trees provide a strikingly different setting to the palms and cacti of the lower desert.
Arizona’s Winter Wonderland
Even if you prefer the warmth, sunshine, and the desert landscapes of cities like Phoenix and Tucson, you have to admit that some brisk weather, snow capped mountains, traditional winter activities, and the chance of snow makes the holiday season up north even more exciting and special.
Flagstaff, with endless winter recreational opportunities and an average of 120 inches of snow per year, is know as Arizona’s Winter Wonderland. Prescott was designated with the title of “Arizona’s Christmas City” by Governor Mofford in 1989. And recently, Sedona attempted to overtake Prescott’s title with a whole lineup of festive activities and events, so much so that a dedicated website called Holiday Central Sedona was put up to list the many seasonal festivities. Williams is a cute little town along Route 66 with a population of just 3000, most well-known for being the departing location of The Polar Express, a magical holiday train ride based on the classic children’s book.
No matter where you choose to plan your vacation (or maybe you are just lucky enough to be a full or part time resident), you will find more than enough choices for holiday fun and winter recreation. As an added bonus, these towns are not that far of a drive from each other so you can easily mix and match activities in different towns.
And now on to the best-of-the-best to enjoy this holiday season! I’ve found a number of festive events all throughout the region including: Flagstaff, Williams, Sedona, and Prescott. In my guide, I will cover some of these great events.
1.Prescott Valley of Lights
Every year Prescott, “Arizona’s Christmas City,” hosts a fabulous drive through light show known as the Valley of Lights. I’ve been to numerous drive thru light shows, however, Prescott has outdone them all with this spectacular display! And, best of all, it is completely free ($5 donations are appreciated).
During the mile long pathway, you will drive under snowflake and candy cane themed tunnels and enjoy festive displays of favorite characters like the Peanuts gang and The Grinch. Local Prescott and Arizona themed designs like cacti and cowboys really give the show a unique local touch. All the fun can be had from the comfort of your warm car. There are so many lights and every display has been nicely organized, rather than simply thrown around.
Be sure to take the time out for this gorgeous display if you find yourself visiting this area. It’s a quick daytrip from Flagstaff and there are a lot more Christmas activities I recommend adding to your bucket list. There is also a nice historic Main St. with many local businesses (I love dining at Papa’s Italian after enjoying the festivities).
- Location: Fain Park (2200 N 5th St, Prescott Valley, AZ 86314)
- 2025 Dates: Thanksgiving-December 30th
- Hours: 6-9 pm (10 on weekends and holidays).
- Admission: $5 suggested donation
2. Holiday Lights at the Little America Flagstaff
Each year, the pine covered grounds of Flagstaff’s Little America hotel sparkle with over a million colorful lights. There are not many big light displays in this city so this one really pops out. As you stroll around bundled up with a hot chocolate, you will be treated to a fantastic, free light display. This is the most colorful display, and thus, I have strolled the grounds many times each winter.
Sometimes, Mike and I head over for a quick stroll while doing errands just to enjoy a little bit of holiday cheer. There’s really no reason not to check it out as it’s festive, free, and fun!
Afterwards, you can enjoy dinner at the Little America Restaurant where you can enjoy more views of the festive display. While the display is great, the popular Champagne holiday brunch was a real let down. Skip the holiday buffets, but make sure to check out the lights! Other holiday events for the kids include Santa visits and the North Pole Experience which includes a trolley ride to Santa’s workshop.
- Location: 2515 E Butler Ave, Flagstaff, AZ 86004
- 2025 Dates: The show runs nightly from mid November – New Year’s
- Admission: There is no fee to stroll the grounds
3. The “World’s Largest Gingerbread Village”
The Prescott Resort and Conference Center is home to a massive annual gingerbread display referred to as the “World’s Largest Gingerbread Village.” Not sure why they named it so as the real honor goes to Jon Lovitch and his incredible display at the New York Hall of Science in Corona, New York (he is in the Guinness World Records).
Nevertheless, it is a very attractive display, with each of the houses being creative and beautifully constructed. Creative entries I’ve seen include a rustic style log cabin design, a fantastic theme park creation, and a house inspired by The Nightmare Before Christmas.
If you are looking for a bite to eat, there is a nice restaurant on-site called the Eagle’s Nest which offers a view of the city skyline.
- Location: 1500 AZ-69, Prescott, AZ 86301
- 2025 Dates: Thanksgiving weekend – New Year’s
- Admission: There is no fee to view the village
