Pratt Brothers Christmas
Through Dec. 28, Rawhide Western Town

What started out as an immersive light show at a Scottsdale home has evolved into Arizona’s biggest Christmas celebration. The Pratt Brothers won the championship on The Great Christmas Light Fight, and their popularity soon outgrew the neighborhood. Now, the brothers will light up Rawhide with more than 7 million lights across 15 acres. New attractions this year include an immersive gingerbread house light show, a Christmas parade float, and an action-packed Battle for Christmas stunt show. Meet Santa, make smores, shop for holiday gifts, decorate cookies, and much more. 6-10 p.m. General admission, $30; VIP, $70. www.prattbrotherschristmas.com.

Las Noches de las Luminarias
Through Dec. 30, Desert Botanical Garden

Glowing luminaria paths, sparkling lights, live entertainment, and festive treats keep people coming back to the garden year after year to make holiday memories. New this year, snap a festive family photo with Sonora Santa and Mrs. Claus. While there, check out the Framerate: Desert Pulse for an immersive desert holiday like never experienced before. Advance reservations required and timed entry slots have limited capacity. 5:30-9:30 p.m. $45.95; children, $21.95. www.dbg.org.

Phoenix ZooLights
Through Jan. 16, Phoenix Zoo

Whether it’s the first time or a continuing annual tradition, attendees will be in awe of the 4 million twinkling lights that transform the zoo into a winter wonderland. There are more than 2 miles of glimmering tree-lined trails, dozens of life-like animal lanterns, and the tallest floating tree in North America. An all-new light show will delight as guests relax by the fire pit with some hot cocoa. A sensory-friendly experience will take place Dec. 15. 5:30-10:30 p.m. $30. www.phoenixzoo.org.

Vineyards in the Valley
Dec. 6, Scottsdale Stadium

At the Grand Tasting Event, a curated selection of more than 75 ultrapremium, highly allocated boutique wineries will provide samples. Enjoy upscale hors d’oeuvres and bid on experience via silent auction. Proceeds benefit Hope for Haiti and its work to provide breast and cervical cancer screenings, nutrition support for mothers, and access to life-saving medication to women in rural Haiti. 4-7:30 p.m. $250. www.give.hopeforhaiti.com.

The Maker’s Hive Holiday Market
Dec. 7, The District at Desert Ridge Marketplace

Those looking for unique, handmade gifts for family and friends should stop by Desert Ridge Marketplace where more than 40 local artisans will offer custom clothing, permanent jewelry, art, candles, and more. While there, take a picture by the holiday tree and enjoy the and enjoy the festive decor all around the area. 12-4 p.m. Free. www.shopdesertridge.com.

White Christmas Gala
Dec. 7, Arizona Biltmore

Irving Berlin may or may not have written White Christmas while lounging at Arizona Biltmore Resort, but the iconic holiday song provides an elegant theme for The Board of Visitors Ryan House’s signature fundraising event. Ryan House is celebrating its 15th anniversary of providing compassionate, no-cost respite care to families. The black-tie gala will feature dinner, dancing and fundraising to directly support Ryan House’s programs and services. The organization relies 100% on community donations. 6:30 p.m. $600. www.ryanhouse.org.

AZ Brunchfest
Dec. 7, Scottsdale Stadium

This month, everyone’s favorite meal will finally get the celebration it deserves. The best brunch spots in the area will serve up mouthwatering bites, mimosas, cocktails, and local craft beers. The ultimate Sunday brunch will feature a bloody Mary bar, an espresso martini bar, a mimosa bar, and more. Admission includes 10 drink tickets, a souvenir tasting glass, and unlimited brunch bites. VIP ticketholders will receive five additional drink tickets and early entry. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. $65; VIP, $95. www.azbrunchfest.com.

Phoestivus 2025
Dec. 12, Arizona Center

Each year, the Phoestivus market features locally grown and produced gifts from over 175 small businesses, live music and delicious food. Whether shopping for the perfect gift or simply soaking in the festive vibes, Phoestivus is a must-attend for holiday fun! Celebrate traditions like the Pheats of Strength, the Phoestivus Pole, and The Airing of Grievances, or simply stroll and enjoy some good food and drinks. The event is a fundraiser for Downtown Phoenix Farmer’s Market. 4-10 p.m. Free entry; suggested donation, $5. www.phoestivus.com.

Ballet Arizona’s The Nutcracker
Dec. 12-27, Phoenix Symphony Hall

A beloved holiday tradition, Ballet Arizona’s annual production of The Nutcracker has sold out for three consecutive years. This year, Phoenicians and visitors alike will have 15 opportunities to catch a performance of the mystical and enchanting tale of young Clara, who receives a wooden nutcracker for Christmas and, through the magic of the season, finds herself in a battle between the Nutcracker Prince and the Mouse King. Journey with her through the Land of Snow and Kingdom of Sweets to meet the magical Snow Queen. Performance times and ticket prices vary. www.balletaz.org.

An Evening with Rita Rudner
Dec. 13, Virginia G. Piper Theater at Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts

Rita Rudner has delighted audiences for decades with her deadpan delivery, impeccable timing, and pithy one-liners. She won Las Vegas Comedian of the Year for nine years in a row with her record-breaking residency. From Las Vegas to Carnegie Hall, PBS, the BBC, and HBO, her act has drawn laughs and sell-out crowds. Beyond the stand-up stage, she is a best-selling author, screenwriter and award-winning actress. Join her for this one-night show. 7:30 p.m. $56-$78. www.scottsdalearts.org.

Shop with Your Pet
Dec. 13, Scottsdale Quarter

Why should kids have all the fun for the holidays? Bring a furry friend to The Quarter to visit all of the pet-friendly retailers for some doggone fun. Dress pups to impress for the ugly sweater contest and have a complimentary photo taken with the Grinch. For those in the market for a pup, an adoption partner will be on site with some adorable pups looking for their fur-ever homes. Many restaurants have pet-friendly patios to enjoy a meal after a full day of exploring. Noon-3 p.m. Free. www.scottsdalequarter.com.

Scottsdazzle Stroll and Shop
Dec. 13 and 20, Scottsdale Waterfront Canal Bank

Scottsdale Waterfront shines with holiday lights and stunning decor. Be sure to visit the 36-foot Scottsdazzle tree before strolling through Stetson Plaza, which will be lined with local pop-up boutiques from The Merchantile of Scottsdale. Chuck E Baby will provide musical entertainment and attendees will be able to purchase a sweet treat or cozy drink from BEG Bakery & Creamery, San Francisco Chocolate Company, Bright Side Café, and Prep & Pastry. 6-9 p.m. Free. www.scottsdazzle.com.

48th Annual S’edav Va’aki Museum Indian Market
Dec. 13-14, S’edav Va’aki Museum

The S’edav Va’aki was the center of a thriving community from 400 to 1500 AD. Formerly the Pueblo Grande Museum and Archaeological Park, the museum tells the story of the O’odham people. All items sold at this annual market are handmade and authentic, and comply with the Indian Arts and Crafts Act of 1990. In addition to over 100 artisan booths, the market will feature traditional Native American performances, ancestral demonstrations and classic foods. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. $10. www.svmfoundation.org.

Olivepalooza
Dec. 13-14, Queen Creek Olive Mill

Celebrate the olive harvest season and milling of fresh extra virgin olive oil with this annual festival. Over the course of two days, attendees can expect live music, a gourmet vendor alley and tastings, and tractor tours of the estate. Additional highlights include games in the grove, live cooking demos, a beer and wine garden, and olive oil 101 classes. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free (olive oil 101 classes additional cost). www.queencreekolivemill.com.

Sunsets & Sips
Dec. 18, Taliesin West

At this event, the magical views from Taliesin West are matched only by the festive atmosphere and celebratory vibes. Stroll the historic site at golden hour while enjoying a seasonal drink and stunning desert setting. Musical entertainment will be provided by Mariachi Rubor, Arizona’s international all-female mariachi group. One complimentary drink is included with each ticket. Beverage and snacks will be available for purchase. There will be a drawing to win a mystery gift box of licensed Frank Lloyd Wright items. 5-8 p.m. $35; ages 21 and under, $20. www.franklloydwright.org.

LeAnn Rimes: Greatest Hits
Dec. 21, Talking Stick Resort

LeAnn Rimes took the music world by storm when she was barely in her teens. She was the youngest solo artist to receive a Grammy. With record sales of more than 48 million worldwide, she is an international phenomenon who continues to record and make an impact beyond the stage for her advocacy work. At this one-night concert, sing along to her hits or become familiar with her new music. 8 p.m. $35-$125. www.talkingstickresort.com.

Mariachi Sol de México de José Hernández
Dec. 21, Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts

José Hernández is a fifth-generation mariachi musician. He and his platinum selling Mariachi Sol de México deliver humor, heartache and romance through their performances. This special concert includes treasured holiday favorites and selections from mariachi songbook. 6 p.m. $56-$68. www.scottsdalearts.org.