It’s Christmas time, and while there are a million things to do — shop for gifts and wrap up year-end projects among other things — here are five holiday events that are worth taking a break from the whirlwind of the holidays to enjoy!
Zoo Lights
The Phoenix Zoo is putting all other Christmas decorations to shame for the 21st year. The Zoo is lit with more than 3.5 million lights to create 600 sculptures in the shape of the furry, scaly and feathered friends that usually reside at the zoo. There are no live animals on display, though you may run into a talking giraffe or see the komodo dragons. Tickets are available until January 12 for $9 to $14. Visit phoenixzoo.org or call 602-273-1341 for more information. The zoo is located at 455 N. Galvin Pkwy. in Phoenix
“A Christmas Carol”
Play House Park is putting on a Christmas classic. Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” is the perfect show to help everyone get in the Christmas spirit — past, present and future. The whole family will take a visit with Scrooge to the spirits past, present and future until December 21 at 1850 N. Central Ave. Phoenix. For information visit swshakespeare.org
“The Nutcracker”
Don’t miss out on Clara’s Christmas adventure taking place now through December 24 at Ballet Arizona. Journey with Clara as she fights life sized mice, and pays a visit to the Sugar Plum Factory. Tickets to Tchaikovsky’s classic cost $43 to $135. For more information visit balletaz.org/performance/next-season-nutcracker/ or 2835 E. Washington St. in Phoenix.
Tree Lighting at the Temple
You may light your tree at home, but it looks nothing like the Annual Arizona Temple Lighting. For the 33rd year, thousands of lights are lit in the garden and then reflected by the pool to make a winter wonderland in sunny Arizona. Special musical performances will take place every night at 7 pm. For more information call 480-964-7164 or visit mesachristmaslights.com
Day Trip to the North Pole
For those who are interested in taking a Christmas day trip with the family there are many great attractions upstate Arizona. Experience the North Pole and get a behind the scenes look at Santa’s workshop. The elves, Santa and Mrs. Claus are waiting for you. For more information about the North Pole, located at 2515 E. Butler Ave. in Flagstaff, visit northpoleexperience.com
