The Scottsdale 2025 Holiday Bucket List

December in Scottsdale is a time when the desert transforms into a festive wonderland, offering a unique blend of holiday cheer and Southwestern charm.

 

Embrace the holiday spirit in Scottsdale with these events that blend traditional festivities with the beauty of the desert.

Jingle at JW Through January 3

 

Location: JW Marriott Desert Ridge, 5350 E. Marriott Drive

 

The much-anticipated Jingle at JW attraction is back and bigger than ever! If you enjoyed the 2024 edition, you're in for an even more magical experience this year. 

 

The Jingle Experience Pass, starting at $29 per person, gives you access to a host of fun activities: ice-skating, snow tubing, virtual skiing, train rides, mesmerizing light shows, and countless photo opportunities. 

 

For those looking to enhance their experience with extra magical activities, additional fees apply for snowball throwing, photos with Santa, gingerbread house decorating, or reserving a cozy spot at the Ember Fire & Food fire table area.

 

Don't miss out on this extraordinary holiday adventure, open nightly from 5 to 10 p.m. 

Christmas at the Princess Through Jan. 4

 

LOCATION:
Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, 7575 E. Princess Drive, Scottsdale

Get ready to experience the ultimate winter wonderland this holiday season as the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess in north Scottsdale once again brings magic to life with Christmas at the Princess!

 

From enchanting Christmas lights to exhilarating rides like the Ferris wheel and ice-skating rinks, there is no shortage of festive fun. 

 

Capture those precious holiday memories with photos with Santa, and warm up with some delightful marshmallow-roasting by the fire. 

 

Tickets start at $40; please note, parking and some activities, such as photos with Santa, are available at an additional cost.

 

Hours:

• Monday to Thursday: 5 to 10 p.m.
• Friday to Sunday: 4 to 11 p.m. through Dec. 18
• Starting Dec. 18: 4 to 11 p.m. daily

 

Get your tickets now and make cherished memories with those you love during this magical time. Happy Holidays! 

Ho Holidays Through Jan. 4

 

Location: Hotel Valley Ho, 6850 E. Main St., Scottsdale

 

Midcentury gem Hotel Valley Ho is getting in on the holiday action this year!

 

Join in on the festive fun with a variety of activities designed to bring joy to guests of all ages:

 

• 🛼 A retro roller-skating rink to glide into the holiday spirit!
• 📸 Capture moments at the photo station.
• 🏓 Enjoy lawn games with family and friends.
• 🎅🏼 Write your letters to Santa and make your wishes known.
• 🖍️ Explore creativity at the coloring station.
• 🔍 Engage the little ones with a kids’ scavenger hunt.
• 🍪 Enjoy deliciously fun cookie decorating.

 

Indulge in delectable seasonal treats and cocktails available for purchase. 

 

Tickets start at $25. For an enhanced experience, consider upgrading to a firepit or cabana, which come with extra amenities to keep you cozy and content. 

 

Don't miss this exciting holiday celebration at Hotel Valley Ho!

Santa’s Workshop: Don't Miss Out on the Holiday Fun! 

 

Join us on Friday, Dec. 12, at The Promenade Scottsdale, located at 16243 N. Scottsdale Road, for an unforgettable family event full of holiday cheer! 

 

• Complimentary photos with Santa: Create precious memories with a magical snapshot alongside the jolly man himself! 
• Hands-on holiday crafts: Get crafty and let your creativity shine with festive DIY activities perfect for every age. 
• Train rides: All aboard for a charming train ride experience that's sure to delight kids and adults alike! 
• Live entertainment: Feel the rhythm of the season with live performances to get you in the holiday spirit! 
• Seasonal treats: Sip on steaming hot cocoa and indulge in peppermint cotton candy, a sweet treat for the senses. 

 

Make sure to mark your calendars for this spectacular event! The workshop runs from 5 to 7 p.m., and you won’t want to miss a single moment of the festivities. 

SantaCon in Scottsdale Old Town is back and promises more fun than ever! 

 

Mark your calendars for Saturday, December 13, and prepare for a day of festive revelry. Join us in Old Town Scottsdale for a merry bar crawl that's bound to spread holiday cheer. 

 

Don your most festive attire and embark on this seven-bar adventure that kicks off at Not My First Rodeo and concludes at 50 Shades of Rose. Each stop offers waived cover, enticing drink specials, and an abundance of holiday spirit. 

 

This lively event is exclusive to those who are 21 and over, and it runs from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Don't miss out on an epic day of laughter, libations, and celebrating the holiday season with fellow Santa enthusiasts.