PAGE 8
10-year-old steps into the spotlight as young Cosette in "Les Mis"
SARI ON SCIENCE
10-year-old Laney Hoekstra
Family-Fun Holiday Bucket List
FAMILY GAME NIGHT
MAKE COOKIES
DECORATE TREE
HAVE PUPPET SHOW
SECRET SANTA SWAP
DONATE A TOY
MAIL CHRISTMAS CARDS
PAJAMA DAY
DELIVER TREATS
DRIVE TO SEE LIGHTS
WRAP A PRESENT
MAKE AN INDOOR PILLOW FORT
SING CAROLS
TAKE FAMILY PHOTO
HOLIDAY MOVIE PARTY
COMPLETE A PUZZLE
DRINK HOT COCOA
READ UNDER THE COVERS WITH A FLASHLIGHT
MAKE PAPER SNOWFLAKES
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Submit press releases or event listings including all details to hello@epickidsaz. com. The deadline for the January issue is January 1.
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Contact the sales department by phone at 888-313-7916 or by email at advertising@egpublishing.com.
Where to Find Us:
Epic Kids is distributed each month directly into the backpacks of children in K-8 charter and private schools. You can also find us placed in racks where kids and their families are out and about. To see a full list of locations, visit our website.
Stay Connected: facebook.com/EpicKidsAZ @epickidsaz
Staff:
Natasha & Brian Beal / Publishers
Sondra Barr / Editor
Shannon Carrillo / Production & Design
Erica Odello / Ad Design
Notes:
Every e ort is made to avoid errors, misspellings and omissions. If, however, an error comes to your attention, please accept our sincere apologies and notify us.
BRIGHT IDEA
Nicholas interviews light impresario Sammy Pratt. Headliners
Photos courtesy of Pratt Brothers Christmas & Holiday Spectacular
Igotto meet one of the brothers behind the Pratt Brothers Christmas & Holiday Spectacular and winners of the ABC show, “The Great Christmas Light Fight.”
When I met Sammy Pratt, he inspired me. And I hope sharing his story will inspire you also.
When Sammy and one of his brothers, Kyle, were in high school, they asked their mom to hire people to decorate their house with Christmas lights. She said, “No, but you can do it yourselves.”
And, so, they did.
childhood memory was visiting Disneyland during Christmas; it brought him and his family much joy, even during di icult times. His favorite ride was “It’s a Small World” and, at a young age, he was inspired to create something magical.
“It means so much seeing kids enjoy our labor of love. Kyle and I mesh our styles and constructed an awesome, beautiful thing for everyone to enjoy,” he says.
For seven years, Sammy and Kyle created a Christmas light show at their home. Friends, neighbors, and strangers came to visit their masterpiece. They even created a train in their garage.
However, 2022 was the first year they did something di erent, launching their spectacular in Mesa.
I asked 24-year-old Sammy why he was passionate about creating a winter wonderland. Sammy said his favorite
On top of a successful first year of the Pratt Brothers Christmas Spectacular, Sammy says winning the TV competition meant so much to him. In fact, he told me to “Always dream, never give up, and keep pushing forward. And that it’s okay to be di erent and color outside the lines.”
They won $50,000 from the TV show and are putting it towards more magic for Arizona kids. I got a heads up on what’s next for the brothers, a family-friendly Halloween experience come October (with a spooky haunted option for thrill-seekers).
Nicholas Bubeck is a monthly Epic Kids columnist and CEO of creationsbynicholas. com. Follow his epic journey on Instagram @creationsbynicholas.
PRATT BROTHERS CHRISTMAS & HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR
WHEN: Through Jan. 1, 2023
WHERE: Bell Bank Park, 1 Legacy Dr., Mesa
WHAT: A family-friendly holiday experience with a neverbefore-seen light show, a revolutionary train ride, and live entertainment.
INFO: prattbrotherschristmas.com
Nicholas with Sammy Pratt at the Pratt Brothers Christmas & Holiday Spectacular in Mesa
GIVEAWAY COOL CONTEST
Enter to Win 4 Tickets to “Sesame Street Live! Make Your Magic”
One
lucky winner will receive a family four-pack of tickets to see “Sesame Street Live! Make Your Magic” on Fri., Dec. 30 at 2 p.m. at Desert Diamond Arena, formerly known as Gila River Arena.
HOW TO WIN
Send hello@epickidsaz.com an email with the subject line: I WANT TO SEE SESAME STREET LIVE
Entries received by 5 p.m., Tues., Dec. 20, will be entered to win the tickets (An over $200 value)!
For complete contest rules, visit epickkidsaz.com/cool-contests. LIKE US ON FACEBOOK & INSTAGRAM @EpicKidsAZ for more fun giveaways!
Headliners
Learn by Doing
Arizona 4-H offers kids hands-on experience developing essential skills.
By Sondra Barr
Whatstarted out as an excuse to get backyard chickens led the Odello family to 4-H. In the process, the family has discovered the joy of developing essential life skills and putting those skills to work.
When Erica Odello saw Facebook photos of her best friend’s daughter showing chickens in competition, it sparked an interest. In the process of learning more, Erica stumbled upon 4-H, a nationwide network of clubs whose mission is “engaging youth to reach their fullest potential while advancing the field of youth development.”
While 4-H originally was created more than 100 years ago to introduce new agricultural technology to rural communities, it’s since evolved. “Today, 4-H serves youth in rural, urban, and suburban communities in every state across the nation. 4-H’ers are tackling the nation’s top issues, from global food security, climate change, and sustainable energy to childhood obesity and food safety. 4-H out-
Kalise made gluten-free chicken pot pie for the county fair.
Mya and Kalise helped collect nearly 800 pounds of clothing and small household goods as a fundraiser and community service project for Glendale 4-H.
of-school programming, in-school enrichment programs, clubs, and camps also o er a wide variety of STEM opportunities – from agricultural and animal sciences to rocketry, robotics, environmental protection, and computer science – to improve the nation’s ability to compete in key scientific fields and take on the leading challenges of the 21st century,” according to 4-H’s website.
had celiac disease last December. Since then, she has been on a mission to make good tasting gluten-free versions of familiar foods. Kalise made a gluten-free chicken pot pie as her 4-H cooking entry in this year’s county fair and earned a blue ribbon for her e orts.
“4-H has helped me with leadership skills and to be more responsible,” says Kalise. “It’s been helpful in so many ways, from making friends to having more confidence being in front of people I don’t know.”
“A lot of 4-H is used as supplemental curriculum for homeschoolers,” says Erica, who has a leadership role in the Glendale 4-H club. “When we have a kid say, ‘I want to learn woodworking,’ then we find another parent who has the tools and skills to lead the project,” explains Erica, who’s led projects ranging from cooking, sewing, art, photography, and more.
Since her daughters loved animals, Erica thought raising chickens would be fun for the family to do. To get her daughters educated about the process, she got them involved with Arizona 4-H to provide direction. Within a year, the girls included raising guinea pigs as a 4-H project and discovered a nearly limitless source of club projects to hold their interest.
“4-H was a last-ditch e ort for Mya and my other daughters to have something to do,” says Erica. “Mya was getting picked on at school. She was miserable. We wanted her to meet similarly minded kids.”
Since joining the Glendale 4-H club, Erica’s daughters have flourished. Meanwhile, they’ve developed and expanded their skills in areas beyond raising and showing animals.
Mya, 17, just got back from the National 4-H Congress in Atlanta, where she earned a spot to go with the Arizona 4-H delegation for turning in one of the top eight record books in Arizona for 2021-2022. “We’re super proud of her for that,” says Erica.
Her younger daughter Kalise, 12, has also had success with 4-H. Kalise found out that she
While the Glendale 4-H club is a general projects club, there are Valley 4-H clubs that focus on agriculture, which has deep roots in 4-H’s history. Through these programs, kids learn where their food comes from and have a much better handle on animal husbandry and farming.
“A lot of these kids then advance to universities that specialize in agriculture. They are future ranchers, farmers, and agricultural educators. They’re the next generation of people who’ll provide food to the nation,” explains Erica.
To learn more about 4-H, visit extension. arizona.edu/4h.
Mya earned a spot as one of eight Arizona delegates for turning in a top record book for the 2021-2022 year.
18 under 18 Nominations Open for JA
Young leaders, change makers, and
Junior
Achievement of Arizona’s 18 under 18 nominations are open until Jan. 31, 2023, at midnight. Nominees have to be under 18 years of age by July 1, 2022, and attend kindergarten through 12th grade in Arizona.
“The Junior Achievement of Arizona 18 Under 18 all have something in common: They’re not waiting until they’re adults to make a di erence in the world,” says Katherine Cecala, CEO of Junior Achievement of Arizona.
“Whether it’s helping refugees, selling shoes, publishing a book, or finding a youth poet laureate, these entrepreneurs all realize the power that a single, driven person has.”
What’s the criteria?
• Demonstrated leadership
• Community Service
• Entrepreneurial spirit
Who are they looking for?
• Active in the community
• Selfless leaders
• Change makers
• Innovators
Winners will be announced in person on Thurs., April 27, 2023, from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Cash and other prizes will be awarded to the winners. To learn more and to nominate a deserving youth, visit jaaz.org/nominations-for-18under-18-open-now.
BECOME A HOST FAMILY
REQUIREMENTS TO HOST
ExchangeMate
• Provide a safe, warm and nurturing environment
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• Provide loving parental guidance and make your student feel as part of the family and encourage participation in family life
• Ensure an English-speaking environment
• Provide a private bedroom to your student (fully furnished)
• Provide 2 balanced meals per day during the week and all 3 meals on weekends and holidays (students will buy their own lunch at school)
• Assist with occasional transportation
• Pass an interview and criminal background check
BENEFITS
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learn more about your family values and beliefs
• Increase cultural awareness in your home and community
• Receive 24/7 support from a wonderful team of local coordinators during your hosting experience Receive a monthly stipend per student you host.
US Over 10 years of experience placing students Highest level of service quality in the industry (5-star google review and BBB accredited) Passionate and caring team members to support you in every step of the way
Be part of a loving and active community of host families and coordinators in your area
Cover story
Role of a Lifetime
Photos courtesy of Lily Saba Photography
At just 10 years old, Laney Hoekstra is no stranger to the spotlight, but she’ll soon step into her biggest role yet in Places! Productions’ “Les Misérables School Edition.”
“I wanted to audition for this show because I’ve dreamed of playing Young Cosette in ‘Les Mis’ and love watching the 25th concert show from London over and over again,” says the Scottsdale fifth grader, who has already performed in six musicals in her short life.
When the cast list was posted in August, Laney was thrilled to learn she’d won this dream role, a part she shares with Farrah McArthur of Gilbert. And for the last few months, she has been hard at work learning her lines, developing the character of Young Cosette and polishing her solo, the iconic “Castle on a Cloud,” a hopeful and heartbreaking ballad about a life filled with joy and free of tears.
The musical will be on stage Dec. 17 to 20 at East Valley High School, located at 7420 E. Main St. in Mesa, with a second run planned Jan. 20 to 22, 2023, at the Mesa Arts Center.
“Les Mis” is one of the most celebrated musicals in theatrical history. It focuses on the tumultuous world of Jean Valjean, a former convict who spends a lifetime seeking redemption. Set against the backdrop of 19thcentury France and the aftermath of the French Revolution, this timeless story of intertwined destinies reveals the power of compassion and the quiet evil of indi erence to human su ering.
Scottsdale 10-year-old steps into the spotlight as young Cosette.
The role of Young Cosette is central to the story. Valjean adopts the little girl, rescuing her from a life of cruelty and neglect at the hands of the Thénardiers, and changes the course of her life.
“I play a young girl whose mother is unable to care for her, so she sends her to live with some mean innkeepers,” Laney says.
All the passion and drama of the original Broadway production is replicated in the student version of “Les Mis” – especially with a cast like this one. Indeed, despite its weighty themes, Laney and her castmates, most of whom are in high school, are pulling it o with a maturity and talent that bely their youth.
“I think audiences will be amazed by the emotion and voices of these young performers,” says Allison Houston, director and music director for “Les Mis” and founding artistic director for Places! “I hope they will be moved by the message of this powerful piece.”
Tim Mills, the show’s assistant director, is quick to agree.
“This is probably the most talented cast we've ever assembled, and we've had some very talented casts in the past,” he says. “I think audiences will be deeply moved by our production of ‘Les Mis.’”
Beyond its deep storyline, the musical is challenging in other ways, too. Nearly every word in the two-hour show is sung, every scene is carefully staged, and every performer plays an important role in bringing the story together. This attention to detail can be seen in the set design, costuming, character development, and choreography.
“This was such a fun project,” says the show’s choreographer, Lily Saba. “We really wanted it to look natural so the dances blend in rather than everyone just breaking out in a dance.”
Adds Allison, “We have spent a lot of time going back to the source material, the masterpiece that is Victor Hugo's novel. We've discussed the characters in depth, including their stories not in the musical, and have a wonderful dramaturg, Kasey Ray. Many of the details you see in the costumes, props, set, and staging are from the book.”
“I think the audience will love the show because we are all working hard and my castmates are really talented,” says Laney. “The details in the show are amazing.”
With music by Alain Boublil and ClaudeMichel Schönberg, “Les Mis” is famous the world over for its score, which includes beloved ballads including “On My Own” and “Bring Him Home” as well as high-impact ensemble numbers like “Do You Hear the People Sing.”
Tickets for “Les Mis” are $15 and can be purchased at placesproductionsaz.com. The run includes both matinee and evening performances at East Valley High School and at the Mesa Arts Center. Discounts are available for teachers, seniors, veterans, first responders, and students. Group discounts are also available.
Winner of over 100 international awards and seen by more than 70 million people, “Les Mis” has been performed in more than 40 countries and in 22 languages. “Les Misérables School Edition” is specially adapted and licensed through Music Theatre International and Cameron Mackintosh (Overseas) LTD. It is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International. All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI, mtishows.com.
Young Cosette with adult Cosette.
Young Cosette with Gavroche.
Young Cosette with Madame Thénardier.
Career Day GAME DAY
Emily Holden ensures local college football bowl games run seamlessly.
Emily Holden
Profession: Senior Director of Game and Event Operations at the Fiesta Bowl
Age: 42
What do you do for a living?
I oversee the comprehensive game day management of the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl and Guaranteed Rate Bowl each year. I work primarily with the stadiums, vendors, and teams to oversee all elements including credentials, ESPN, signage, and security. In addition to the actual game itself, I assist with our Yellow Jacket Committee – a team of community leaders who dedicate themselves to the events and helping in the community, and overall event operations – all while wearing actual yellow jackets.
What type of training do you need to do your job?
You don’t need any formal training, but a college degree can be useful when getting a full-time position. It is helpful
to eventually get forklift certified, and I attend security and risk management training. Yes, really!
What’s your favorite part of your job?
Working with all the people – meaning the teams themselves, broadcast partners, vendors, the stadium, our staff members, and volunteers – is really something special. I also love feeling the roar of the crowd at kickoff; there is nothing quite like it.
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
A truck driver.
What advice would you give to a kid who wants to have a similar career? Find opportunities to volunteer at events or try to get an internship to see what elements of event day you enjoy. Job shadowing is another great opportunity to learn about the industry and build connections.
One fun fact NOT about your job? I am great at remembering song lyrics of all types.
Brain Play Sari on SCIENCE BATH BOMBS
Make a unique present for friends and family this holiday season.
What’s more fun than bathtub bubbles?
Bath bombs have actually been around since 1989 and have recently found a resurgence in popularity. With this activity, you can customize all your scents and colors for custom science gift-giving!
Supplies:
• Silicone molds (soap/ candy molds, muffin tins, or plastic eggs also work well)
• Whisk
• Mixing spoons
• Wax paper
• Large bowl
• Small bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Measuring cups
• Gloves
• Eye protection
• ¾ cup baking soda
• ½ cup cornstarch
• ½ cup powdered citric acid (buy online, at your local craft store, or local grocer with canning supplies)
• ½ tablespoon water
• 2½ tablespoon oil (coconut, olive, or other vegetable oil)
• Optional: portable fan
• Optional: 4-6 drops of food coloring (powdered food coloring works really well)
• Optional: 2 teaspoons skin-friendly scented essential oils (lavender, eucalyptus, rose, lemongrass, coffee, vanilla, peppermint … whatever you like! Available online or at your local craft store.)
Instructions:
1. Put on your safety gear, including gloves and eye protection. Powders can be irritating.
2. In a large bowl, combine dry ingredients (baking soda, Epsom salt, citric acid, and cornstarch) and mix until combined and clump-free.
time. Use the whisk to mix as you go. Slow down if you start to see the mixture fizz. The final mixture shouldn’t really clump together and should have the texture of damp sand.
5. Spread the mixture into the silicone molds (or plastic eggs) and press firmly until it is fully and evenly packed in each section. Depending on size, this can make about 10 bath bombs.
6. Place the packed molds in front of the blowing fan or just set them out to dry. This can take up to a day.
What’s happening?
The key ingredients here are citric acid (a weak acid) and baking soda (or sodium bicarbonate, a weak base). When the two ingredients are dry in their powdered form, they don’t react. But when you put the bath bomb into the tub, water causes the two key ingredients to mix, resulting in an acid-base reaction. Is there any change if you put the bath bomb in cold water vs. hot water? How does the size of your bath bomb affect its fizziness? How does the color of the bath bomb affect the water?
• ½ cup Epsom salt
3. In a small bowl, combine the wet ingredients (oil, water, scented oil and food coloring). If you use scented oil, stick to about two teaspoons. Roughly 5 drops of food coloring work well, but feel free to mix up different pigments and experiment with the color.
7. When your molds are set, flip them over and very gently press the fizzies out onto a piece of wax paper. If they start to crumble as you do this, flip them back over and let them continue to set in the molds for a while longer.
8. Test them! Once the bath bombs are set, try one out by tossing it into a tub of water. What do you observe?
Sari Custer is a lifelong science junkie, Chief Curiosity Officer at Arizona Science Center, and mom to daughter Carson (7). Follow her on Twitter and Instagram @SariOnScience.
4. Very slowly add the liquid to the dry mixture — about one teaspoon at a
9. To gift them, gently wrap your bath bombs in decorative bags. If the fizzy does crumble, have no fear! The mixture can be poured into a bath and produce the same great effects.
just for fun Brain Play
JOKES AND FUN FACTS FOR THE ENTIRE
Why does everyone love Frosty the Snowman?
In general, food takes 24 to 72 hours to move through your digestive tract. The exact time depends on the amount and types of foods you’ve eaten. What is a Christmas tree’s favorite candy?
As the name suggests, reindeer are a species of deer. They are the only deer species in which both the male and female can grow antlers.
Animal crackers were first introduced around Christmastime in 1902. The string on the box was originally intended to be used to hang the boxes on Christmas trees.
What do you call an obnoxious reindeer?
Leaving milk and cookies out for Santa has been a long-time tradition, but did you know that children used to leave snacks for the reindeer too? Hay, carrots, and other goodies were common treats for the reindeer to chow down on.
On December 17, 1903, Orville and Wilbur Wright, two brothers from Dayton, Ohio, completed the first successful flights of a heavier-than-air flying machine at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. In doing so, they ushered in the age of aviation.
“THE STONEKEEPER”
AUTHOR:
Kazu Kibuishi
GENRE: Middle-Grade
Graphic Novel
AGES: 9+
RATING:
AAAAA
SYNOPSIS: After the tragic death of their father, Emily and Navin move with their mother to the home of her deceased great-grandfather, but the strange
house proves to be dangerous. Before long, a sinister creature lures the kids' mom through a door in the basement. Em and Navin, desperate not to lose her, follow her into an underground world inhabited by demons, robots, and talking animals.
Eventually, they enlist the help of a small mechanical rabbit named Miskit. Together with Miskit, they face the most terrifying monster of all, and Em finally has the chance to save someone she loves.
MY FAVORITE QUOTE FROM THIS BOOK: “You won't know the meaning of success without knowing how it feels to fail.”
MY FAVORITE THING ABOUT THIS BOOK IS: The art style! I love how colorful and vivid all the
BOOK CLUB Brain Play
illustrations are; it makes me feel immersed in various settings.
MY FAVORITE CHARACTER IN THIS BOOK IS: Both Emily and Navin! I love their sibling bond and how they support each other throughout the story.
FANS OF THIS BOOK MAY ALSO LIKE: “Ghosts” by Raina Telgemeier, “El Deafo” by Cece Bell, and “Nimona” by N.D. Stevenson
Avery, 16, is an avid reader and book reviewer. When not reading, you can find her playing volleyball, hanging out with friends, or with one of her pets! Follow her on Instagram and TikTok at @readbyfin.
What's Happening
By Gretchen Pahia
“A WINNIE THE POOH CHRISTMAS TAIL”
WHEN: Through Dec. 23
WHERE: Valley Youth Theatre, 526 N. First St., Phoenix
WHAT: A story of a Christmas Eve very long ago when Eeyore, the old gray donkey who lives by himself in the thistle corner of Hundred-Acre Wood, was miserable. It seems that he lost his tail and Winnie-thePooh, and Piglet got all their friends, and a search was organized. There is a great deal of fun and excitement, plus delightful songs, in the adventure that follows.
INFO: vyt.com
December 2022
Present, and Future in this tale of greed, growth, and love, and see Ebenezer Scrooge face a life-changing choice that could be his greatest savior or his gruesome demise. Delight in extraordinary visuals, gorgeous costumes and eyepopping e ects bringing to life the story of generosity’s triumph over greed in the best Christmas tale ever told.
INFO: theaterworks.org
BALLET ARIZONA PRESENTS “THE NUTCRACKER”
WHEN: Through Dec. 24
WHERE: 2835 E. Washington St., Phoenix
CHRISTMAS AT SCHNEPF FARMS
WHEN: Through Dec. 24
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 Christmasthemed obstacle course.
INFO: schnepfchristmas.com
CHILDSPLAY “RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER”
WHEN: Through Dec. 24
WHERE: Herberger Theater Center, 222 E. Monroe St., Phoenix
WHAT: This musical adaptation of the classic special features a host of favorite characters including Santa and Mrs. Claus, Hermey the Elf, Bumble the Abominable Snow Monster, Sam the Snowman, Clarice, Yukon Cornelius, and Rudolph.
INFO: childsplayaz.org/rudolph
“A CHRISTMAS CAROL”
WHEN: Through Dec. 24
WHERE: Peoria Center for the Performing Arts, 10580 N. 83rd Dr., Peoria
WHAT: Join the ghosts of Christmas Past,
WHAT: 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
THE MAGICAL CHRISTMAS JOURNEY TO THE NORTH POLE
WHEN: Through Dec. 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 goodbye to Santa Claus as he boards the train for the return trip to Clarkdale.
INFO: verdecanyonrr.com/events/ christmas-train
ENCHANT CHRISTMAS
WHEN: Through Jan. 1
WHERE: Salt River Fields, 7555 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale
WHAT: Billed as the world’s largest holiday-themed light maze, this immersive walk-through light maze is constructed of over four million sparkling lights. The event also includes a 100-foottall tree, live entertainment, an ice-skating trail, Santa visits, culinary treats, holiday cocktails, and Santa visits.
INFO: enchantchristmas.com
WORLD OF ILLUMINATION
WHEN: Through Jan. 1
WHERE: Desert Diamond Casino, Glendale; Tempe Diablo Stadium, Tempe; and Six Flags Hurricane Harbor, Phoenix WHAT: A large drive-through light
display, World of Illuminations is a one-mile journey with millions of lights and over 500 installations synched to music. Each location features a unique theme: “Candy Rush” at Tempe Diablo Stadium, “Enchanted Safari” at Desert Diamond Casino, and “Rockin’ Christmas” at Hurricane Harbor.
INFO: worldofillumination.com
ZOOLIGHTS
WHEN: Through Jan. 15
WHERE: Phoenix Zoo, 455 N. Galvin Pkwy., Phoenix
WHAT: You’ll find adventure everywhere at the Valley’s favorite holiday tradition, ZooLights! This season promises to be bigger and brighter than ever before, with all new animal lanterns and light displays, an enhanced Santa experience and a brand-new music and light show that will take you around the world!
INFO: phoenixzoo.org/events/zoolights
FANTASY OF LIGHTS BOAT PARADE
WHEN: Dec. 10
WHERE: Tempe Beach Park, 80 W. Rio Salado Pkwy., Tempe
WHAT: As the sun sets, the evening lights up at one of the Sonoran Desert's most unique holiday events. Gather along the shore of Tempe Beach Park for Tempe's Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., followed by fireworks.
INFO: downtowntempe.com/events/boat-parade
PHOENIX FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS
WHEN: Dec. 10 & 11
WHERE: Phoenix Center for the Arts, 1202 N. 3rd St., Phoenix
WHAT: This community event is a Phoenix favorite for the holidays with a weekend of free arts and culture activities, vendors, demonstrations, performances, and more. Featuring over 150 art vendors, local music, and food trucks, it's the perfect occasion to bring friends and family out to connect with the local arts community.
INFO: phoenixfestivalofthearts.org
“‘TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE…”BY CIRQUE DU SOLEIL
WHEN: Dec. 16 - 24
WHERE: 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix
WHAT: An exhilarating spin on the beloved Christmas tale, this festive show brings a flurry of love, Christmas cheer, thrilling acrobatics, and hugely lovable characters to the stage for a new holiday tradition for families to cherish.
INFO: ticketmaster.com
"SESAME STREET LIVE"
WHEN: Dec. 29 & 30
WHERE: Desert Diamond Arena, 9431 W. Northern Ave., Glendale
WHAT: Join your favorite furry friends in your neighborhood at one of three fun-filled "Sesame Street Live!" interactive show experiences that unfold on one of the world’s most famous streets.
INFO: sesamestreetlive.com
Epic Family Fun pass
