Holidays in Tempe
Spend the Holidays in Tempe, Arizona
It’s the most wonderful time of year for cozy sweaters, hot cocoa, twinkling lights and beloved holiday and Christmas events in Tempe, Arizona. We invite visitors and residents to enjoy the holiday season with festive fun. Christmas shopping excursions, outdoor patio dining and magical events are all happening in Tempe.
Events and Festivities in Tempe
Spending the holiday season in Tempe offers endless possibilities. From seeing the sights to festive lights, this season’s lineup of events is sure to deliver holiday magic to the entire family.
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Shop Local For Gifts This Year
Shop Tempe’s locally owned businesses for those who cherish one-of-a-kind gifts. Explore specialty shops, boutiques and more to find unique art, treats, apparel and experiences for everyone on your list. Added bonus: You’ll feel good about supporting small businesses.
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Holi-Stay at a Tempe Hotel
Take a holiday break! Stay in one of Tempe’s welcoming hotels or invite your friends and family to visit you this season. Explore our hotels and find one that’s the perfect fit.
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Holiday Shopping
Take your holiday shopping game to the next level at Tempe Marketplace, Arizona Mills or Downtown Tempe. Your friends and family will thank you.
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Arizona Theatre Company at Tempe Center for the Arts
Tempe Center for the Arts
October 19, 2024 – June 29, 2025
Arizona Theatre Company’s 56th Season kicks off its five-show lineup in October 2023 at Tempe Center for the Arts.
Movies on the Field at Mountain America Stadium
ASU 365 Community Union
October 26, 2024
Bring a blanket, find a seat on the grass and enjoy your favorite films on the big screen — under the stars — at ASU’s football field.
Second Sundays on Mill
Downtown Tempe – Mill Avenue
November 10, 2024 – April 13, 2025
Join Downtown Tempe on the Second Sunday of Nov., Jan., Feb. and Apr. for a monthly outdoor market, featuring live music and entertainment, vendors, pop-ups, activations, seasonal themes and plenty of fun for the entire family.
ZooLights at the Phoenix Zoo
Phoenix Zoo | Arizona Center for Nature Conservation
November 27, 2024 – January 12, 2025
ZooLights at the Phoenix Zoo, the Valley’s most cherished holiday tradition, is back with millions of twinkling lights, all new animal lanterns and light displays, an enhanced Santa experience and a brand new music and light show!
Fantasy of Lights Street Parade
Downtown Tempe
November 29, 2024
A holiday tradition enjoyed by generations — the Downtown Tempe Fantasy of Lights Street Parade features a tree lighting ceremony, live entertainment, Santa photos and so much more!
Tempe Fall Festival of the Arts
Downtown Tempe
December 6, 2024 – December 8, 2024
The Tempe Festival of the Arts offers visitors a distinct shopping experience each fall and spring in Downtown Tempe. More than 300 artist booths line Mill Avenue and the surrounding streets presenting unique, and hand-made artwork.
Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade at Tempe Town Lake
Tempe Town Lake and Tempe Beach Park
December 14, 2024
The Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade at Tempe Town Lake is the Valley’s most unique holiday event and celebrated tradition. Enjoy holiday shopping, festive eats and treats, a dazzling boat parade.
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Tempe Fall Events You Won’t Want to Miss
Sports fans, outdoor lovers, foodies and families all agree: Fall is the perfect time to visit Tempe. The temps are cooling and our calendar is filling up with seasonal events — from festivals and markets to sporting events and concerts — you won’t want to miss. Tempe is the perfect event and festival location – fall through spring, you will find a variety of fun events in our city.
Experience the Magic of the Desert Botanical Garden
Step out of the city and into the Sonoran Desert landscapes of the Desert Botanical Garden. Home to more than 50,000 arid plants from deserts around the world — from towering cacti to colorful wildflowers — this magical oasis invites you to immerse yourself in 140 acres of natural beauty.
