From November to December, every city decks out for the holiday season, and Tucson is no exception. In fact, Tucson might even celebrate the holiday season better. Holiday traditions are carried out with a twist in this warmer climate and charms everyone for miles around.
To help spread the holiday cheer, we’ve come up with a list of 6 ways to celebrate the holiday season in Tucson.
1. 23rd Annual Downtown Parade of Lights on December 16, 2017
Join the fun in downtown Tucson for the Parade of Lights. The parade starts on the corner of Alameda and Church, right next to Jacome Plaza but the fun begins before the parade with activities at Santa’s Workshop, a possible snowstorm, and maybe a drop-in visit from Santa Claus himself! Be sure to grab a cup of hot cocoa to sweeten the evening.
2. The Wee Winter Wonderland at the Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures
Explore the holiday traditions of 15 different countries around the world through miniature depictions and holiday-themed kid activities. The Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures decks out for the holiday in the lobby and galleries. Although closed on Mondays, you can visit the museum throughout the week. Check the hours on the website.
3. Arizona Repertory Singers’ “Heaven Full of Stars” Concerts
Delight in classic holiday favorites as well as some of the best new choral music available, such as Festival of Lights by Karen Siegel and Stars by Eriks Esenvalds.
Not only will you experience lovely choral pieces, but the choir promises to add extra magic to the evening by playing tuned wine glasses as they sing one piece. For concert and ticket information, visit the website.
4. “Season of Light” and “Laser Holidays” at Flandrau Science Center and Planetarium
The 34-minute “Season of Light” show capitalizes on the new Flandrau Fulldome projection system, capturing stunning images across the complete planetarium dome. Meanwhile, the 40-minute “Laser Holidays” light music show pairs gorgeous images with Christmas and holiday songs.
Both shows use the astronomy of the Winter Solstice and the history of light festivals throughout the years, creating a unique experience that is educational and entertaining. Visit the Flandrau Science Center and Planetarium website to check showtimes.
5. La Encantada Snowfall
Celebrate the holiday season with a bit of enchanted snowfall. Rather than drive to the mountains or visit the north, encounter real snow and a 28-foot tree at La Encantada Shopping Center.
On Friday and Saturday evenings at 6 pm, families can witness live snowfall while being serenaded by holiday favorites. Don’t forget to grab a hot cocoa!
6. San Xavier’s Christmas Concerts
Experience a blending of Mexican, Native American, and Anglo histories at the 18th-century mission church, San Xavier del Bac. This parish church continues to serve the descendents of the Native American people who built it.
San Xavier ushers in the holiday season with a series of concerts bent on raising funds for the nonprofit organization that restores and preserves the Mission San Xavier. At this concert, the Sons of Orpheus and the Tucson Arizona Boys Chorus perform a rich selection of music. Performances sell out quickly, but you may be able to attend the dress rehearsal. Check the Patronato Sax Xavier website for dates and tickets.
However you choose to enjoy the holiday season, be sure to spend time with those you love. Have a safe and happy holiday!
