Celebrate the holiday season with 8,000 flickering luminarias and twinkling lights at the Desert Botanical Garden.
One of the most-anticipated holiday events here in the Sonoran Desert is Las Noches de las Luminarias at the Desert Botanical Garden. This beautiful Southwestern holiday tradition has been taking place at this location since 1978. Each December, the Garden’s longest-running tradition brings the warm glow of more than 8,000 lit luminaria bags to its trails and the sparkle of thousands of tiny white lights perched in the trees. You can’t help but catch the holiday spirit while strolling along with a cup of hot chocolate or cider in hand on a crisp, clear night.
Las Noches de las Luminarias takes place over 15 nights, from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., beginning Nov. 29 and 30. December dates include 1, 6, 7, 13-15, 18-23 and 26-30.
Adding to the festivities will be live music performances throughout the garden. From handbell and harps to carolers and mariachis, you can count on an inspired soundtrack to accompany your visit. See the entertainment schedule here.
Returning this year, La Posada will take place on Dec. 17 to celebrate the Mexican holiday tradition by the same name. On this evening, guests are invited to join in the festivities (included with ticket), which features piñatas, traditional food and drink, and two singing processions through the Garden.
Take a closer look at the magic that awaits you with our Desert Botanical Garden Guide.
For more information, and to purchase tickets, visit the Desert Botanical Garden’s website or call 480-481-8188.
For additional holiday happenings throughout Tempe, visit our events calendar.
