Happenings

merry everything

check out these amazing holiday events happening across the state

THE NUTCRACKER

When: Various dates in December Where: 75 N. 2nd St., Phoenix What: Ballet Arizona returns to Symphony Hall in grand fashion with this holiday classic. Celebrate the joy and wonder of the season with Ib Andersen’s The Nutcracker as Tchaikovsky’s cherished score is masterfully performed by The Phoenix Symphony. Follow Clara’s wintry adventures as she battles mischievous mice and charms the Sugar Plum Fairy. Whether this is your first Nutcracker or your 101st, this heartwarming tradition never fails to enchant and draw smiles from all! Info: balletaz.org/performance/the-nutcracker-2021

PHOESTIVUS 2021

When: December 15 and 16 Where: N. Central Ave. and Pierce St., Phoenix What: Shopping local has never been better! The chance to find the perfect gifts for this holiday season, meet the artists, participate in the Phoestivus traditions, enjoy a Phoestivus Ale, and more all while enjoying the great outdoors. Phoestivus began in 2009 to be the perfect all-inclusive December celebration. Phoestivus is the brainchild of Ken Clark from Get Your PHX and Community Food Connections. The Phoenix event boasts traditions like the Pheats of Strength, the Airing of Grievances, Hipster Santa, and Yeti sightings. Info: phoestivus.com

RAWHIDE SNOWY CHRISTMAS

When: Through December 18 Where: Rawhide Event Center, 5700 W. North Loop Rd., Chandler What: The Town will illuminate with over a million lights and be decked out with holiday décor through December 18. Rawhide will feature holiday festivities nightly during public hours (5 - 10 p.m.). Every Friday and Saturday night, Santa will lead the official tree lighting ceremony and be available for photos. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the nightly snowfall down Main Street and seeing all the town lit up. Admission is free! Info: rawhide.com/event/rawhide-snowy-christmas-2021

RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER: THE MUSICAL

When: Through December 24 Where: Herberger Theater, 222 E. Monroe St., Phoenix What: The holiday classic soars off the screen in this musical adaptation of the beloved television special. Filled with 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. Info: herbergertheater.org/events

THE MAGICAL CHRISTMAS JOURNEY TO THE NORTH POLE

When: Through December 24 Where: Verde Canyon Railroad, 300 N. Broadway, Clarkdale What: At the magical North Pole passengers will see 12 creatively decorated buildings featuring Santa’s Workshop, Mrs. Claus’ Bakeshop, Naughty Kids Coal Mine, the Antler Inn, Reindeer Flight School, Ice Fishing Hut, Elf School, and Ugly Sweater Factory, among others. Mrs. Claus and acrobatic elves will wave good-bye to Santa Claus as he boards the train for the return trip to Clarkdale. The man in the big red suit will interact with all the children and gift them with a little train memento as a reminder of their Christmas Adventure aboard Verde Canyon Railroad. Info: verdecanyonrr.com/events/christmas-train

CHRISTMAS AT SCHNEPF FARMS

When: Through December 31 Where: Schnepf Farms, 24610 E. Rittenhouse, Queen Creek What: Experience the wonder of Christmas at Schnepf Farms, a special kind of holiday magic for the entire family. Featuring the Illumination Express train ride, a Christmas carousel, cookie decorating with Mrs. Claus, hayrides to reindeer, pictures with Santa, snow globe mini golf, a beer and wine garden, and the world’s largest inflatable Christmas-themed obstacle course. Info: schnepfchristmas.com

LIGHTS AT THE FARM

When: Through January 2, 2022 Where: Vertuccio Farms, 4011 S. Power Rd., Mesa What: Lights at the Farm at Vertuccio Farms is Arizona’s largest walk-through synchronized Christmas light show featuring ten acres of festive light displays. Keep time with popular Christmas songs, guaranteed to spread Christmas cheer. Enjoy delicious food, music, skating, and other family-friendly entertainment. Skating is available for an additional charge. Info: lightsatthefarm.com

PHOENIX ZOO LIGHTS

When: Through January 15, 2022 Where: Phoenix Zoo, 455 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix What: Phoenix’s most cherished holiday tradition is back with millions of twinkling lights, and dazzling animal sculptures. This year, the zoo is offering two options – walk through or drive through. Info: phoenixzoo.org/events

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