We may not see glittering snowflakes or icicles here in Phoenix, but we sure do know how to make spirits bright. The Valley is home to a plethora of seasonal light displays that are sure to put you in a merry mood and have you singing “let it glow, let it glow, let it glow.” Check out the list below to find out where you can find both free and paid displays near you.
ZooLights – Phoenix Zoo
455 N Galvin Pkwy
Phoenix, AZ
When the sun goes down at about 5:30 p.m., millions of lights and hundreds of colorful displays light up the Phoenix Zoo. It’s easy to spend hours getting lost in the beautiful seas of lights, admiring the three-story lighted tree, watching the lakeside music shows and enjoying the many other activities the zoo has to offer.
ZooLights is open nightly from 5:30-10:30 p.m. until Jan. 8, 2017. General admission prices vary, so be sure to check out ZooLights’ webpage for purchasing information.
Holiday Lights – McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
7301 E Indian Bend Rd
Scottsdale, AZ
The popular McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park gets a little more merry and bright for the winter season. Hop aboard the Paradise & Pacific Railroad attraction for a magical journey through a glowing winter wonderland, then enjoy a visit with jolly Ol’ Saint Nick himself at one of two locations: a historic train car or the vintage train depot. Photos are only $5 and make for a great addition to those last-minute Christmas cards.
The holiday lights display is open now through Jan. 1, 2017 (closed Dec. 24, 25 and 31), so you have plenty of time to stop by and make lasting memories. Tickets are $4 for the railroad, and children two and under can board free with a paying adult.
Glendale Glitters – Downtown Glendale
58th and Glendale Ave
Glendale, AZ
Arizona’s largest free holiday light display is back for another year! Over sixteen blocks of Historic Downtown Glendale are illuminated in twinkling lights each evening from 5 to 11 p.m. There’s lots of Christmas cheer circulating around the many restaurants and shops downtown, so be sure to pop in and enjoy some dining and shopping.
On Dec. 16 & 17, head to downtown Glendale for the Spirit of Giving Weekend. You can expect to find even more celebratory activities, including visits with Santa, mini pony carriage rides, festival food, a petting zoo and more. There’s also live entertainment and a raffle, which helps raise money for local charities. It’s a great way to get in the spirit of giving!
