Let it snow! Let it snow! Let it snow!
If you want to experience a white Christmas, but don’t want to travel to the high country to see it, every evening through Dec. 24 Tempe Marketplace has an 8-minute snowfall at 7 and 8 p.m. The snow is non-toxic, non-staining, eco-friendly, non-allergenic, and made of 90 percent water so children and families can touch and play with the flakes of snow. But just as fast it appears, it disappears without a trace, dissolving upon contact. The event is free and located at 21001 N. Tatum Blvd. in Phoenix.
For the 14th year running, the Arizona Celebration of Lights is open to the public. Displays of lights cover tunnels and arches with more than seven million lights, making up one mile. Once you’re done driving through the spectacle of lights, you can visit Santa’s Village, with concessions, hot chocolate, a light show, a picture with Santa, and more! Celebration of Lights is located at 2209 North 99th Avenue, Phoenix and proceeds from the event benefit the Salvation Army, St. Mary’s Food Bank and the Angel Tree Foundation. Celebration of Lights is open Sunday-Thursday, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 6 p.m.- 10 p.m.
In December, downtown Glendale is transformed into Glendale Glitters, a winter wonderland with twinkling lights galore and horse drawn carriage rides. Every weekend there are different themed festivities, such as the Bell Rockin’ Nights Dec. 16 and 17, a night filled with holiday songs and rock music that is sure to get everyone on their feet dancing. The event also features arts and crafts, delicious foods and beverages, inflatable rides and a picture with Santa Clause. Admission is free, so you can make memories at Glitters until Jan 14, when it ends with their annual Glow Block Party, where the fire of more than 20 hot-air balloons augments the night sky. Glendale Glitters is located at Glendale and 59th avenues.
Who says you can’t go to the Phoenix Zoo after hours? The wildlife of the zoo disappears and is transformed into wild lights, with over 3.5 millon lights and 600 light displays, from a 3D praying mantis to frogs leaping. Take a ride on the carousel, polar slide, or even a camel. Each ride is only $3, or enjoy the exciting new Music in Motion dancing tree show that can be viewed across a lake where a floating 24-foot lighted sphere glows over the water. Admission is $13 at night, $10 during the day, valid Sunday through Thursday, and only $9 for zoo members. The zoo is located at 455 N Galvin Parkway in Phoenix.