Nostra Style House
I’m always excited to find a new local boutique to shop at, and near my office at that! Last weekend, while running some errands I noticed that a new boutique had opened up next door to Butter Toast Boutique in downtown Phoenix, so I stopped in to check it out.
Nostra Style House carries a mix of contemporary new designer clothing, locally designed jewelry and carefully curated vintage from Annie Boomer Vintage. Stop in and check them out!
Isn't this vintage evening gown fabulous?
Nostra Style House is located at 906 North 6th Street, Phoenix
Queen Creek Olive Mill
I really love discovering local treasures. I'm just sorry it took me so long to make it out to the Queen Creek Olive Mill. Since I'm such a sucker for breakfast, we opted to try theirs out. I had to go for the vanilla bean olive oil waffle with bananas and pecans (hint: waffles are served all day). And, as luck would have it, we arrived before 10:30 and got a discount on breakfast by checking in via FourSquare. To describe the waffle as delicious would be an understatement. Other waffle options include the Classic and Berries & Cream. The rest of the menu looked equally fantastic, but I'd be hard pressed not to get the waffle again.
Vanilla Bean Olive Oil Waffle with Bananas, Pecans & Fresh Made Whipped Cream
After eating, we wandered through the retail area (and made purchases, of course) and then took the tour. The retail store includes more olive oil options than I ever thought possible, a variety of tapenades, an olive bar, cupcakes, lotions, etc. If you can put olives or olive oil in it, I think they have it. They also offer a nice selection of wines including many from local wineries. And be sure to take advantage the olive oil and tapenades samplings.
I highly recommend making the tour part of your visit to QCOM. It's only $5 per person, and you really get the low down on how they produce their extra virgin olive oil using sustainable farming practices.
The olive oil magic happens here
Outdoor picnic tables for enjoying our warm, sunny weather
Oh, don't forget to grab some gelato on your way out. I can vouch for the chocolate olive oil flavor (yum), and a little QCOM birdie told us that the raspberry gelato drizzled with chocolate olive oil is a must. They do mix it up with their gelato flavors so who knows what they might have when you visit.
To see more photos of my visit to Queen Creek Olive Mill, check out our Flickr stream.
Queen Creek Olive Mill
25062 S. Meridian Road
Queen Creek, AZ 85242
queencreekolivemill.com
What to do for New Year’s Eve in Phoenix
Party like it's 1999
Now that all the holiday presents are unwrapped, it’s time to ring in the New Year! So if you need ideas of what to do for New Year's Eve and where to pop open the bubbly here in Greater Phoenix, look no further.
Parties
The Real London Bus Big NYE Pub Crawl
The bus will be loaded with all the standard NYE supplies (streamers, hats, poppers etc.) and champagne of course. Everyone will meet at the Rose and Crown Pub with stops at Time Finnegan’s, The Duce (food available) and Copper Blues. Just in time for the drop and more champagne!
Details: The Real London Bus. All tickets need to be purchased in advance by December 24th. $60 per person, which includes cover at each stop. Call 480.334.8372.
Westgate Rocks New Years Eve Party
Celebrate the New Year at Westgate’s Fountain Park. The fun starts at 6 pm and includes live music, games, arts and crafts, and more.
Details: Westgate 6770 N. Sunrise Boulevard , Glendale. 6pm – 2am. Free. 623.772.4000
The Terrace Room Lounge
Celebrate the New Year in The Terrace Room lounge at Different Pointe of View beginning at 8 p.m. with live music, party favors, light far and a New Year’s champagne toast. The cost is $50 per person or complimentary for dinner guests of Different Pointe of View. Reservations are required.
Details: The Terrace Room Lounge 11111 N. 7th St, Phoenix. Call 602.866.6350
New Year’s Eve Bash at Rawhide
Ring in the New Year Western Style at Rawhide's Steakhouse. Enjoy a delicious buffet menu, live music, dancing, party favors and a sparkling beverage to toast the New Year.
Details: Rawhide Western Town and Steakhouse 5700 W. Tham Yog North Loop Road, Chandler. 9pm – 1am. $45 Adults, $18 Kids 4-12. 480.502.5600
New Years Eve at Symphony Hall
Ring in the New Year with The Phoenix Symphony performing classics from New York to Vienna. Enjoy waltzes, Broadway tunes and more from legends like Cole Porter, Leonard Bernstein, and Rodgers and Hammerstein.
Details: Symphony Hall 75 N. Second Street, Phoenix. 7pm. Tickets $27-83. 602.495.1999
The festivities will include live performances by local bands, ice skating, and vendors selling a variety of beer, wine and other spirits. A headlining perfomance by former LIVE front man Ed Kowalczyk will ring in the New Year.
Details: CityScape 1 E. Washington Street, Phoenix. 7pm. $20 General Admission $35 VIP Red Zone. 602.772.3900
Ring in the New Year at this annual adults-only gala with music, dancing, Zoolights, snacks and a no-host bar. Complimentary champagne will be provided at the stroke of midnight while the ball drops to ring in 2012.
Details: The Phoenix Zoo 455 N. Galvin Parkway Papago Park, Phoenix. 9:30 pm - 12:30am. $45 per person: $85 per couple. 602.273.1341
Tostitos Fiesta Bowl Block Party
As Arizona's biggest and most exciting New Year's Eve bash, the Fiesta Bowl Block Party is a jam-packed evening of fun and entertainment for the entire family. With rockin' bands, beer gardens and a host of entertainers, this is one fantastic celebration you won't want to miss.
Details: Mill Avenue District 500 S. Mill Ave, Tempe. 5:30pm – 12:30am. $20. VIP $100. 480.350.0900
Scottsdale’s Ultimate Block Party
Scottsdale's largest party hits the streets for New Years Eve with live DJ performances, four open bars, (Dos Gringos, Rock Bar, White House and Upper Deck) and a special performance by local favorties Roger Clyne and the Peacemakers.
Details: Craftsman Court 4209 N. Craftsman, Scottsdale. 6pm. Tickets $35.
Barbra’s Rockin New Years at the Rock
Hosted by Barbra Seville, this New Year's Party is sure to Rock your world! This Vegas style show will feature live performances, a dinner buffet, party favors and a champagne toast at midnight.
Details: The Rock 4129 N. 7th Avenue, Phoenix. 8pm. Tickets $10. 602.248.8559
Talking Stick Resorts New Years Eve Ball
This dinner and dance extravaganza presents live performances by legendary 80’s acts Morris Day and the Time and Sheena Easton. There will also be party favors and a balloon drop.
Details: Salt River Grand Ballroom at Talking Stick Resort 9800 E. Indian Bend Road, Scottsdale. 8pm. Tickets $99-150. 480.850.7777
The Goblin King New Year’s Eve Masquerade Ball at FilmBar
Dance 2011 away at FilmBar in downtown Phoenix. This unique event promises to be an evening of enchantment and festivity. The $15 cover includes champagne toast at midnight, masks, party favors and appetizers. Fantasy costumes or formal attire is encouraged, masks are required.
Details: FilmBar 815 N. 2nd Street, Phoenix. 21+ only, $15. 602.595.9187
Blue Martini: Diamonds Are Forever Casino Royale
High-end lounge Blue Martini pays tribute to James Bond and hosts a black-tie soiree to ring in the New Year. Dress your best in gowns and tuxes. Open bar from 8-10pm. Reservations are encouraged.
Details: Blue Martini 5455 E. High Street, Phoenix. $25 for women, $50 for men. Tables are available by reservation only. 480.638.2583
Rip’s Ales & Cocktails: The Final Countdown at Obscura
DJ Roya and Adrian Flanagan will spin their best ‘80’s and Brit pop tracks for New Year’s Eve so be prepared to dance the night away. Get there before 10pm and pay only $5 cover. Drink specials all night long.
Details: Rip’s Ales & Cocktails 3045 N. 16th Street, Phoenix. $5 before 10pm, $10 after. 602.266.0015
Crescent Ballroom: New Year’s Eve Pahtay
DJ Sean Watson will be joined by BC/AD, Benni Beatnik, Ariel, Ellery, Hartbreaks and Aaron Hempsey and electro duo Peachcake at this FREE New Year’s Eve party.
Details: Crescent Ballroom 308 N. Second Avenue, Phoenix. FREE. 602.716.2222
MercBar New Year’s Eve
Put on your best black and white attire and be fancy while you ring in 2012. General admission guests enjoy a hosted bar from 8-11pm with hors d’oeuvres. Table specials available.
Details: MercBar 2525 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix. $50-125. 602.508.9449
Champagne Supernova New Year’s Extravaganza at Dollhouse Cocktail Lounge
Enjoy complimentary champagne, food and half-off all cocktails from 8-10pm. DJ Circle will be spinning and a complimentary midnight toast is included.
Details: Dollhouse Cocktail Lounge 7419 E. Indian Plaza, Scottsdale. $45 at the door, $25 in advance. Call 480.359.7118
Brunswick New Year’s Dance Party
Bowl your way to 2012. Enjoy an appetizer buffet, party favors, DJ music and a champagne toast. There will be contests, prizes and bowling of course!
Details: Brunswick Lanes 1160 S. Gilbert Road, Gilbert. Prices vary. Call 480.813.2695
New Year’s Eve at Carefree Station
Carefree Station celebrates the New Year in every American time zone! Complementary champagn toasts and party favors at 10pm, 11pm, midnight, and 1am. Live music from Jon McConnell, lobster tail and surf-and-turf dinner specials will be available in addition to regular menu items. Reservations are suggested.
Details: Carefree Station Grill & Bar 7212 Ho Hum Road, Carefree. Call 480.488.8182
Fountain Hills Theater New Year’s Eve Block Party x3
Bring the kids at 6pm for a family-friendly event with kiddie music, finger foods, soft drinks, noise makers, hats and a sparkling cider toast at 8pm. A second celebration takes place with music dancing and a buffet that ends at 10pm with a champagne toast. Then Arizona’s New Year will be celebrated at midnight with another champagne toast. Guests are welcome for all three celebrations.
Details: Fountain Hills Theater 11445 N. Saguaro Blvd, Fountain Hills. $30, $15 for age 7 and younger. 480.837.9661
National Comedy Theatre New Year’s Eve Extravaganza
This all-ages improvisational comedy performance includes a catered buffet, party favors, noise makers and balloons. A champagne and cider toast is featured at midnight. Advanced tickets required.
Details: National Comedy Theatre 1111 S. Longmore Road, Mesa. $59. 602.374.5638
Golfland New Year’s Party
Ring in the New Year at Golfland in a family friendly environment. Unlimited attractions, video games, a live DJ, dance floor and a midnight balloon drop.
Details: Mesa Golfland/Sunsplash 155 W. Hampton Avenue, Mesa. $15-18. 480.834.8319
Uncle Lucius New Year’s Eve Party
Uncle Lucius plays The Compound Grill. A champagne toast at midnight is included with ticket purchase.
Details: The Compound Grill 7000 E. Mayo Blvd, Phoenix. $25 for table seating, $20 for general admission. 480.585.5483
Axis/Radius: Welcome to the Jungle
Ring in the New Year at Axis/Radius with this “Welcome to the Jungle” themed party. Dress up as rock starts or jungle beasts. Guns N’ Roses original drummer Steven Adler will be in attendance. Complimentary champagne toast at midnight.
Details: Axis/Radius 7340 E. Indian Plaza, Scottsdale. $25 single, $45 couple. 480.970.1112
Pussycat Lounge: PCL NYE
Dance your way into 2012 with tunes spun by DJ Aaron Taylor. Get there early and enjoy a hosted Ciroc vodka bar from 8-10pm.
Details: Pussycat Lounge, 4426 N. Saddlebag Trail, Scottsdale. Free for women, $20 for men. 480.481.3100
American Junkie: Junkie Bash
This is the place to ring in the New Year on a budget. No cover and a hosted Ciroc vodka bar from 8-10pm. Complimentary champagne toast at midnight.
Details: American Junkie 4363 N. 75th Street, Scottsdale. 480.990.3000
W Scottsdale: New Year’s Eve Cirque Nouveau
Watch sideshow performances, musical acts and a fireworks display at this vintage circus themed party. Hotel guests have access to a hosted bar from 7-9:30pm and receive a top hat and feathered headpiece, and split of champagne.
Details: W Scottsdale Hotel and Residences 7277 E. Camelback Road, Scottsdale. $75 for women, $100 for men. Hotel packages available. 480.970.2100
Dinners
Shake & Twist Like 56 New Year’s Bash at Hotel Valley Ho
Make reservations for this four-course dinner served with Henriot Champagnes and Grey Goose vodka pairings. After dinner, dance in the ZuZu lounge to music spun by DJ P-Body. A rooftop champagne toast is featured at midnight. Seatings at 6:30pm and 9:30pm. Reservations recommended, special room rates available.
Details: Hotel Valley Ho 6850 E. Main Street, Scottsdale. $125 for 9:30pm seating, $95 for 6:30pm. Call 480.248.2000
The Mint: New Year’s Eve Experience 2012 ‘Vintage’
Start out the evening with a five-course prix fixe menu created by chef Jonny Chu that includes Black Dragon fish, wasabi shumai and sweet wontons. The Mint will be decked out in metallic décor so guests are encouraged to dress in silver and gold. The first 400 guests will receive swag bags.
Details: The Mint 7373 E. Camelback Road, Scottsdale. $20 for women, $50 for men, $35 additional per person for dinner. 480.947.6468
Taggia at Kimpton’s FireSky Resort & Spa
Taggia offers a delicious Old Town option for your last supper of 2011. The coastal Italian restaurant is offering a four-course prix-fix menu with a delectable lineup of seafood, salad, filet and rich desserts including a torte, tarte and bombolini with ganache. For those who want to dine with wine, the Taggia team will be on hand to offer perfect pairings.
Details: Taggia at Kimpton’s FireSky Resort & Spa 4925 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. Reservations recommended. 480.424.6095
Different Pointe of View
Indulge in a prix fixe holiday dinner with a choice of two seatings. The first seating is at 5 p.m. and is $125 per guest, or $175 with wine pairings. The second seating begins at 8 p.m. and is $150 per person, or $200 with wine pairings. The second seating includes a champagne toast at midnight.
Details: A Different Pointe of View 11111 N. 7th St, Phoenix. Call 602.866.6350
Rico’s American Grill
A three-course holiday menu from 6 to 10 p.m. The celebration includes a glass of champagne and live music in Rico’s Backyard as we celebrate the New Year. Cost is $42 per person and reservations are suggested.
Details: Rico’s American Grill 7677 N. 16th Street, Phoenix. Call 602.997.5850
New Year’s Eve Dinner at District Kitchen & Wine Bar
Delight in a decadent five-course New Year’s Eve dinner with wine pairings while listening to live jazz music throughout the night at District American Kitchen & Wine Bar. The delectable dinner creations showcase artisan products, herbs from the restaurant’s rooftop garden, and sustainably farmed produce from local growers. Savor traditional American comfort foods served with a classic twist this New Year’s Eve.
Details: District Kitchen & Wine Bar 320 N. 3rd St. Sheraton Phoenix Downtown Hotel, Phoenix.First seating is from 5:30 to 7pm. Prices are $59 for adults, $30 for kids, and $30 for the wine pairing. Second seating is from 8 to 10pm. Prices are $69 for adults with a champagne toast, $34 for kids, and $30 for the wine pairing. An a la carte menu will be available for bar patrons. Complimentary three-hour self-parking validation is available. Restaurant reservations are required. Call 602.817.5400
New Year’s Eve Dinner at Zinburger
On New Year’s Eve, enjoy a prix fixe dinner for two at Zinburger at Biltmore Fashion Park. The dinner is $40 (excludes tax and gratuity), which includes two burgers or entrée salads, one side dish, a slice of pie, such as Zinburger’s decadent Banana Cream Pie, plus two drinks. For drink selections, indulge in a glass of wine, a draft beer, or one of Zinburger’s signature handcrafted shakes, such as the new Salted Caramel Shake or the Gingerbread shake of the month. The special dinner is available from 4 to 10pm.
Details: Zinburger Biltmore Fashion Park 2502 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix. For more information, call 602.424.9500
New Year’s Eve Dinner at NoRTH at Kierland
Enjoy a three course, prix fixe dinner on New Year’s Eve at NoRTH at Kierland Commons. The dinner is $40 per person from 4:30 to 5:30pm and $55 per person from 5:30 p.m. to close.
Details: NoRTH at Kierland Commons 15024 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. For reservations, call 480.948.2055
New Year’s Eve at Kai
Conclude 2011 in style at Kai, Arizona’s only Five-Star and Five-Diamond restaurant, where Executive Chef, Michael O’Dowd will present special five or nine-course tasting menus.
Details: Kai Restaurant 5594 W. Wild Horse Pass Blvd, Chandler. Reservations for the five and nine-course menus will be accepted from 5:00pm – 9:00 m. Prices for the meals range from $140 to $225 and include various ranges of optional wine-pairings. Call 602.385.5726.
NYE at Quiessence Restaurant at The Farm at South Mountain
Cheers to the end of a great 2011 and an even better 2012 with Quiessence Restaurant. We've crafted one of the most decadent menus ever served at Quiessence. Already have midnight plans? Enjoy dinner before the party with plenty of time to countdown!
Details: Quiessence Restaurant at The Farm at South Mountain 6106 S. 32nd Street, Phoenix. Dinner is $95 per guest with an optional sparkling wine pairings at $55 per guest. First seating 5-6pm, second seating 7-8pm. Call 602.276.0601 for reservations.
New Year’s Eve Five-Course Chef’s Tasting Menu at Prado
Toast 2012 as you enjoy a delicious five-course tasting menu featuring treats including Butter Poached Maine Lobster and Marinated Baby Heirloom Tomato and Burrata Salad.
Details: Prado 4949 E. Lincoln Drive Montelucia Resort & Spa, Paradise Valley. Reservations will be accepted for 6pm and 9pm seatings. Call 480.627.3004.
New Year’s Eve Indulgence at Elements at The Sanctuary
Choose from three seating’s to ring in the New Year. First seating’s at Elements are 5:30pm – 7pm at $125 per person and $165 with wine pairings. Second seating at Elements 8-10:30pm and includes a champagne toast at midnight. $150 per person or $190 with wine pairings. Or choose an exclusive seating in Praying Monk from 8-12:30am that includes live entertainment by Alice Tatum and her band. This special seating is $200 per person and includes a half-bottle of Veuve Clicquot champagne.
Details: Elements at The Sanctuary 5700 E. McDonald Drive, Paradise Valley. Reservations required. Call 480.948.2100.
New Year's Eve Dinner at Deseo and Kid's Club
Ring in the New Year with an incredible four or five-course dinner in deseo. Bring the whole family and take advantage of Kids Club packages for children ages 4-14!
Details: Deseo at The Westing Kierland 6902 E. Greenway Parkway, Phoenix. 6:00 pm seating includes a four-course prix fixe dinner at $95+ per guest. The 8:30pm seating includes a five-course prix fixe dinner and champagne toast for $125+ per guest. Reservations required 480.624.1030.
NYE: Il Terrazzo at The Phoenician
Gather around our table at Il Terrazzo for delicious à la carte offerings and a four-course prixe fixe menu - the celebration continues at Thirsty Camel -open til 2am- for live entertainment, fabulous vistas and an impressive drink menu featuring more than 80 varieties of vodka and an extensive champagne list.
Details: Il Terrazzo 6000 E. Camelback Road The Phoenician, Scottsdale. Dinner reservations required 480.423.2530
New Year’s Eve Dinner at Le Chalet
A three-course dinner begins with an aperitif and them an appetizer of salmon gravlax, followed by beef tenderloin and a dessert tray of puff pastry layered with vanilla custard and sliced strawberries, served with a glass of champagne. The second seating adds an assortment of cheese before dessert and features a champagne toast at midnight.
Details: Le Chalet 5626 W. Bell Road, Glendale. $89.95 for 8pm seating, $49.95 for 5pm. Call 602.337-8760
Tutti Santi Italian Restaurant
Tutti Santi in Phoenix is a family favorite for Italian cuisine.
Italian cuisine and family just go together, which makes it no surprise to me that Tutti Santi is one my family’s favorites. I’ve been to two of the five Greater Phoenix locations, and have felt like a member of the Tutti Santi family at each one. You can taste the pride in the food and feel the pride in the service you get from their staff.
We recently celebrated my father’s birthday at the 16th Street Tutti Santi in Phoenix. Located near the Pointe at Squaw Peak, you could blink and miss Tutti Santi which is situated in the back corner of the strip mall facing 16th Street. This particular location has a great patio for a nice day and the inside of the restaurant is much bigger than you would expect from the outside. The décor is of your typical Italian restaurant with white tablecloths and wine and Italian themed imagery.
Whenever I visit Tutti Santi I have a hard time deciding on what to order. Everything on the menu sounds delicious and it is filled with seafood items along with more traditional Italian dishes like ravioli and lasagna.
We decided on two appetizers for the table after asking the waiter how fresh their mussels were. “Fresh!” He said, “We fly in our seafood three times a week.” The mussels are served in a white wine garlic sauce, and make sure to ask for extra bread to sop up the broth. We also ordered the calamari, which was perfectly crisp (not chewy!) and served with a spicy cocktail sauce.
The mussels appetizer at Tutti Santi.
Because the portions are huge at Tutti Santi, my fiancé and I split the Linguine del Marinaio that comes with fresh clams, mussels, calamari and shrimp sautéed in a light tomato sauce and served on a bed of linguine. Bravo! The seafood was fresh, perfectly cooked, and the sauce was delicious.
Linguine del Marinaio
My mother ordered her favorite, the Homemade Ravioli alla Nina. I have to tell you, this ravioli will change your life – it’s like perfect little pillows of pasta, Ricotta cheese with spinach and marinara. It’s just amazing. Try it and thank us later.
The best ravioli you will have outside of Italy.
My father ordered the lasagna and it was another hit. You just can’t lose when you order at Tutti Santi.
Tutti Santi has five locations in Greater Phoenix. The menu and happy hour specials vary on location, so check their website before you go.
More photos from our visit to Tutti Santi can be found on Flickr.
Phoestivus Market
Only in its second year, the Phoestivus Market is already one of our favorite holiday traditions in Phoenix. This open-air holiday shopping event will feature goods from over 70 local vendors, seven food trucks, carolers, holiday activities and in true Phoestivus style there will be Feats of Strength, a Phoestivus Pole and an Airing of Grievances.
Phoestivus is a great way to get into the spirit of the season while supporting your neighbors - not to mention being able to get all of your holiday shopping done in one place! The first 100 attendees of Phoestivus on both Wednesday, December 14th and Wednesday, December 21st will receive a free Phoestivus Goodie Bag provided by Local First Arizona and event partners. Yelp will also be sponsoring a gift wrapping station on the evening of December 21st.
The Phoestivus Market will take place at the Downtown Phoenix Public Market (14 E. Pierce Street, Phoenix) on Wednesday, December 14th from 4-8:30pm and on Wednesday, December 21st from 4-8:30pm.
Things to Do: Holiday Events in Greater Phoenix
There are plenty of ways to get into the holiday spirit this season in Greater Phoenix. Whether you want to get a head start on your holiday shopping, view a tree lighting, build a snowman, or see a great holiday show, we’ve put together this big list of holiday events, and checked it twice, just for you.
Polar Express Train
11/11/2011- 1/7/2012
The Polar Express comes to life on this train ride to the North Pole. Enjoy hot chocolate and cookies while listening to the magical story.
Details: Grand Canyon Railway 1201 W. Route 66 Ste. 200, Flagstaff. Adults: $29 Children (2 - 15): $19 "The Christmas Eve Limited" - Only departing December 24th Adults: $58 Children (2 - 15): $38 1-888-848-3511
A Christmas Carol
11/17/2011-12/25/2011
Based on the Charles Dickens story, this production is the Broadway version of the classic Christmas tale. Ebenezer Scrooge gets a visit on Christmas Eve from three spirits hoping to change his outlook on life.
Details: Broadway Palm Dinner Theater 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa. Show only $28. Dinner and show $49 per person, $22 for children 12 and under. Call for showtimes 480-325-6700
Arizona Celebration of Lights
11/19/2011-1/1/2012
Arizona Celebration of Lights will feature more than seven million lights, fully lit tunnels and arches, animated and still displays, and more! The park will also feature Santa's Village which includes hot cocoa, concessions, one free photo with Santa and other photo opportunities.
Details: Arizona Celebration of Lights 5001 N. 99th Avenue, Glendale. Mon-Thurs 6pm-9pm. Fri-Sun 5:30pm - 10pm. Admission $15 per car Mon-Thurs. $20 per car Fri- Sun. 1-888-926-7404
Zoolights
11/24/2011-1/8/2012
When the sun goes down and the animals go to sleep, the Phoenix Zoo magically transforms into one of the largest holiday lighting events in the Southwest with 3.5 million lights and more than 600 animal light sculptures.
Details: Phoenix Zoo 455 North Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. 6:00-10:00 PM. "Any Night" Tickets - $12; Tickets valid Sunday through Thursday - $10; Children 2 and under free. 602-273-1341
Holiday Ice Rink
11/26/2011- 1/11/2012
The CityScape outdoor ice rink is back for the holidays, enjoy outdoor ice skating on real ice. There will also be special visits from Santa, holiday entertainment and more!
Details: CityScape 1 E. Washington Street, Phoenix. Monday-Friday, 5pm-11pm. Saturday-Sunday, 3pm- 11pm. Admission is $10, includes skate rental. 602-772-3900
The Elves and the Shoemaker
11/30/2011-12/24/2011
This holiday themed version tells the tale of Santa and his elves helping out the hard working shoemaker and his wife.
Details: Great Arizona Puppet Theater 302 W. Latham Street, Phoenix. Wed - Fri 10am, Sat 10am and 2pm, Sun 2pm. Tickets $8 adults, $6 children. 602-262-2050
Gilbert’s Holiday Night of Lights
12/1/2011
Get into the holiday spirit with the lighting of the 28 foot tree and experience ground displays, community entertainment, sweet treats, and a visit from Santa.
Detail: Gilbert Civic Center North Campus 50 E Civic Center Drive, Gilbert. 5:30 - 8:30 PM. Free admission and parking.
Las Noches de las Luminarias
12/1/2011-12/30/2011
The Valley's best holiday event comes to life at the Desert Botanical Garden with more than 8,000 hand-lit luminaria bags and 10 musical groups performing nightly.
Details: Desert Botanical Garden 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. 5:30pm - 9:30pm. $25 for adults, $12.50 for children ages 3-12, under 12 free. 480-481-8188
Peoria’s Old Town Holiday Festival and Gingerbread Competition
12/2/2011
This annual festival is host to a 20 ton snow field, gingerbread competition, live entertainment and a craft market. After visiting Santa wonder over to the food booths for roasted almonds, kettle corn and fresh tamales.
Details: Old Town Peoria 83rd Avenue just south of Grand Ave, Peoria. 5pm - 9pm. Free admission. 623-773-8627
A Winnie the Pooh Christmas Tale
12/2/2011-12/23/2011
Join Pooh, Piglet, Eeyore and their friends in the Hundred Acre Woods for a celebration of friendship, caring and sharing with a Christmas theme.
Details: Valley Youth Theatre 525 N. 1st Street, Phoenix. Showtimes vary. $18.00 + $2.00 per ticket facility fee. 602-253-8188
Cactus Garden Holiday Light Tour
12/2/2011-12/30/2011
Guests of the Phoenician can enjoy a delicious cup of hot chocolate, followed by a guided tour of the resort's signature two-acre cactus garden, which will be adorned with lights for the holidays.
Details: The Phoenician. 6000 East Camelback Road, Scottsdale. Wed, Fri and Sat at 6pm. Free. 480-941-8200
Hallelujah! Joys of the Season with the Phoenix Opera
12/3/2011
This tribute to the holidays from the Phoenix Opera features highlights from the Christmas portion of Handel's Messiah as well as traditional and international holiday gems. Delight in the majesty of the Hallelujah Chorus and the tenderness of Silent Night.
Details: MIM (Musical Instrument Museum) 4725 E. Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix. 7pm.Tickets $35. 480-478-6000
Deck the Halls: Family Holiday Classics with the Phoenix Opera
12/3/2011
Revel in the beauty of O Holy Night, sing along with Jingle Bells, and even meet Santa as you and your family celebrate the season with the stars of the Phoenix Opera and the Phoenix Opera Orchestra.
Details: MIM (Musical Instrument Museum) 4725 E. Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix. 2:30pm.Tickets $25. 480-478-6000
2011 APS Electric Light Parade
12/3/2011
This spectacle of lighted floats and performance groups has delighted tens of thousands of spectators each year along the parade route, which runs down Central Avenue from Montebello, then heads east on Camelback to 7th Street where it heads south to its conclusion at Indian School Road.
Details: Central Phoenix Central Ave between Montebello and Indian School Road. 7pm. Free. 602-261-8069
Queen Creek Holiday Festival and Parade
12/3/2011
The 29th Annual Queen Creek Holiday Festival and Parade will kick off the season with floats, entertainment, vendors, and fun kid activities.
Details: Queen Creek Library 21802 S. Ellsworth Road, Queen Creek. 10am - 3pm. Free. 480-358-3769
Stroll in the Glow
12/3/2011
Over 60,000 twinkling lights and ornaments will adorn the streets of Fountain Hills. Santa and his elves will arrive while carolers sing, and shops and boutiques along the Avenue are open late to greet visitors.
Details: Downtown Fountain Hills 12925 N. Saguaro Boulevard, Fountain Hills. 6pm - 9pm. Free. 480-837-1654
Holiday Pet Festival
12/3/2011
The largest holiday pet event in Arizona will be an exciting day of interactive activities, demonstrations, exhibitions and animals galore. Bring your pets to this fun filled day featuring photos with Santa, shopping, live entertainment, a silent auction, pet fashion show, free nail trims, and a gingerbread house competition.
Details: WestWorld of Scottsdale 16601 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. 10am – 5pm. Free.
The Irish Tenors
12/4/2011
The Irish Tenors made up of members Ronan Tynan, Finbar Wright and Anthony Kearns perform with a show that blends Irish standards (Danny Boy, When Irish Eyes Are Smiling) with traditional Christmas carols.
Details: Celebrity Theatre 440 N. 32nd Street, Phoenix. 7pm. Tickets $40-$60.602-267-1600
Holiday in the Park
12/8/2011
This new and exciting holiday event will feature crafts, storytime with Santa, fun holiday games, photos with Santa, luminaries in the park with caroling, entertainment, train rides and delicious holiday snacks.
Details: Anthem Community Park 41703 N. Gavilan Peak Parkway, Anthem. 5:00 pm- 8:00 pm. Free.
Handel’s Messiah at Grand Canyon University Arena
12/8/2011
More than 500 musicians will join The Phoenix Symphony to present George Frideric Handel’s great oratorio “Messiah”.
Details: Grand Canyon University Arena 3300 W. Camelback Road, Phoenix. 7pm. Tickets $10-35.
Holiday Lights at McCormick Stillman Railroad Park
12/9/2011-12/30/2011
Take a train ride through many festive holiday light displays turning the Railroad Park into a winter wonderland. Opening night festivities will include a tree lighting ceremony, entertainment and a visit from Santa.
Details: McCormick Stillman Railroad Park 7301 E. Indian Bend Road, Scottsdale. Free admission. Train and carousel rides are $2.00. 6:30 - 9:00pm. 480-312-2312
12K’s of Christmas
12/10/2011
This annual event celebrates health, animals and Christmas. Find caroling and performances in the park all morning, and a Christmas bazaar with handmade holiday crafts. Also scheduled are a 12K, 6K and 1.2K run/walk, with children's choirs and other groups at every milepost performing Christmas songs.
Details: Freestone District Park 1045 E. Juniper, Gilbert. 8am to 1pm. Admission $25-45. 480-609-3978
Christmas Mariachi Festival
12/10/2011
This festive event features an amazing spectacle with performances by hundreds of ballet folklorico dancers and youth mariachis celebrating the colorful pageantry of the Mexican Posadas. Each year there is a moving tribute to Our Lady of Guadalupe who is serenaded by the greatest mariachis on earth.
Details: U.S. Airways Center 201 East Jefferson Street, Phoenix. 7pm. Tickets $43-73. 480-558-1122
Carefree 4th Annual Christmas Festival
12/10/2011-12/12/2011
This holiday festival features an electric light parade, a fireworks display, Santa, real snow, an outdoor Christmas market, evening concerts, community choirs, festival of trees, light nativity scene, theatre and dance, a kids zone, holiday dog walk and show, and much more.
Details: Downtown Carefree 1 Easy Street, Carefree. Fri and Sat 10am-9pm, Sun 10am-5pm. Free. 480-488-4812
Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade
12/10/2011
Light up the night and be dazzled at the Valley's most unique holiday event. Featuring as many as 50 festively lighted boats of all sizes, and special guest Santa Claus.
Details: Tempe Beach Park 54 West Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe. 7pm. Free. 480-921-2300 ext 19
Holiday Party in Paradise
12/10/2011
Champagne brunch, demos and giveaways will be held to benefit the USO supporting our military families. Book any service the day of the event and receive 20% off!
Details: Paradise Medspa and Wellness 2060 W. Whispering Wind Drive Suite 170, Phoenix. 10am - 2pm. Admission $1.00. 602-266-8144.
Go Tell it on the Mountain: The Blind Boys of Alabama Christmas Show
12/10/2011
The Grammy Award-winning Blind Boys of Alabama are living legends of gospel music. The group's joyful Christmas show offers up a rousing mix of holiday standards along with traditional gospel favorites and modern spirituals.
Details: Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts 7380 East Second Street, Scottsdale. 8pm. Tickets $39- 49.480-874-4657
Holiday Brunch with Santa Claus at District American Kitchen and Wine Bar
12/10/2011-12/11/2011
This holiday brunch will feature a scrumptious seasonal dishes cooked to your liking, cookie decorating, and a special guest appearance from Santa Claus.
Details: District American Kitchen and Wine Bar inside the Sheraton Phoenix Downtown 340 N. Third Street, Phoenix. 10am – 2pm. Reservations required 602-817-5400
Handel’s Messiah
12/10/2011-12/11/2011
A free concert to celebrate Christmas and great music: Scottsdale Choral Artists, Scottsdale Arts Orchestra and soloists present highlights from Handel's epic masterpiece, Messiah.
Details: Paradise Valley United Methodist Church 4455 E. Lincoln Drive, Paradise Valley.7 pm Saturday, Dec. 10. Free. La Casa de Cristo Lutheran Church 6300 E. Bell Road, Phoenix. 3 pm Sunday, Dec. 11. Free. 480-720-3398
Festival of Cheer
12/10/2011
Designed to bring together all aspects of the community, both residents and businesses, to learn, share, and have fun while celebrating our different cultures, holidays, and backgrounds. Countries and cultures have different stations set-up throughout the Peoria Sports Complex for attendees to visit. There is a separate Play Land for children ages 12 and under with crafts, complimentary pictures with Santa, and over 20 tons of snow.
Details: Peoria Sports Complex 16101 N. 83rd Avenue, Peoria. 10am – 3pm.Tickets $5 for children, $7 for adults and $20 for a family pass of four. Children six and younger free. 623-584-4999
Tamale Festival
12/10/2011-12/11/2011
Arizona’s finest tamale-makers celebrate traditional Mexican culture during this two-day festival. Guests can taste and buy a wide selection of homemade tamales, and shop at a variety of booths that offer jewelry, arts and crafts.
Details: Downtown Phoenix Washington between 1st and 4th Avenue, Phoenix. 10am – 6pm. Free. 480-895-5383
Sister’s Christmas Catechism: The Mystery of the Magi’s Gold
12/13/2011- 12/15/2011, 12/18/2011, 12/20/2011, 12/22/2011
In an unusually jolly mood, Sister teaches her students the story of the Nativity and asks for their help to solve the greatest Christmas caper ever, who swiped the gold that those three wise men gave to the Baby Jesus.
Details: Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts 7380 East Second Street, Scottsdale. 7:30pm. Tickets $29 – 39. 480-874-4657
Phoestivus Market
12/14/2011, 12/21/2011
Take care of your entire holiday shopping list in one night and support local business in the process by shopping over 50 local vendors with food, drinks, and handcrafted gifts. There will also be food trucks, live music and holiday carolers.
Details: Phoenix Public Market 14 E. Pierce Street, Phoenix. 4pm - 8:30pm. Free.
Breakfast with Santa at the Phoenician
12/17/2011
Breakfast with Santa will feature a special menu, a commemorative digital photo with Arizona's authentic Old Saint Nick, and cookie decorating and holiday movies played on the big screen. Reservations required.
Details: The Phoenician 6000 East Camelback Road, Scottsdale. 9am – Noon.$45 for adults, $30 for children ages 3-12, under 3 free. 480-941-8200
Breakfast with Santa at the Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak
12/17/2011-12/18/2011, 12/23/2011-12/24/2011
Breakfast guests will enjoy a special breakfast buffet and complimentary photos with Santa. Mrs. Claus will host a story-time and provide each child with a gingerbread activity book. Reservations are required.
Details: Rico's American Grill at Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak Resort 7677 N. 16th Street, Phoenix. 8am, 10am, and Noon. $27 for adults, $16 for 10 and under. 602-997-2626
Alice Cooper’s Christmas Pudding
12/17/2011
This annual show features musicians, dancers, and comedians performing for local youth charities. This year’s special guests include Cheap Trick, Korn's Brian "Head" Welch, and Iron Chef America winner Mark Tarbell.
Details: Comerica Theatre 400 West Washington Street, Phoenix. 7pm. Tickets $35-65. 602-379-2802
Big Bad Voodoo Daddy’s Wild and Swingin Holiday Party
12/21/2011
Big Bad Voodoo Daddy cruises into town with its jumpin' and jivin' Christmas extravaganza.
Details: Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts 7380 East Second Street, Scottsdale. 7: 30pm. Tickets $39 – 49.480-874-4657
Christmas Day Dining at District American Kitchen and Wine Bar
12/25/2011
Enjoy festive Christmas Day dining with friends and family with a decadent three-course meal and wine pairing.
Details: District American Kitchen and Wine Bar inside the Sheraton Phoenix Downtown Hotel 320 N. 3rd Street, Phoenix. 11:30am - 9:30pm.$29 for adults, $15 for kids, and $15 for the 6oz wine pairing. 602-817-5400
Holidays at the Heard
12/26/2011-1/2/2012
Exciting performances and artist demonstrations introduce visitors to traditional and contemporary American Indian music, dance and art throughout the week.
Details: The Heard Museum 2301 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix. 9:30am – 5pm Monday-Saturday. 11am – 5pm Sunday. Free with museum admission. 602-252-8840
Trans-Siberian Orchestra
12/30/2011
Rock Theater originators will be performing holiday hits in this part theatrical show, part rock spectacle.
Details: Jobing.com Arena 9400 W. Maryland Avenue, Glendale. 3pm and 8pm. Tickets $34.50 - 60.50. 800-745-3000
