10 Things to Do in Phoenix in December

If you plan to visit Phoenix in December or close the year in the city, you'll find pleasant weather for outdoor excursions, Christmas celebrations and some of the best cultural events. In addition, you'll also find options in nearby cities.

Some of the best things to do in Phoenix in December include taking an adventure tour of the Arizona desert, visiting the interactive exhibits at the city zoo, taking a tour of Downtown to discover the eve decorations, seeing the Chapel of the Holy Cross and taking a guided tour of Saguaro National Park.

December is the perfect time to embark on an adventure tour of the Arizona desert. This time of year offers a unique experience, allowing you to discover the beauty and breathtaking scenery of the desert while experiencing the climatic changes unique to the region.

During an adventure tour, you can explore the vast terrain of the Arizona desert and marvel at its rugged landscape and rock formations. You can hike winding trails, climb hills and admire the breathtaking panoramic views. In addition, the weather in December is generally mild and pleasant, making it comfortable for outdoor activities and some of the best desert tours in Phoenix.

Another exciting aspect of taking a desert adventure tour in December is the opportunity to experience the site's climatic changes. As the sun sets, you can feel the cool breeze and enjoy the tranquillity and serenity of the desert at night. You can also discover picturesque sunsets and the glow of stars in a clear sky as you ride along the trails in a vehicle or on an ATV.

In December, the Arizona desert comes alive in a special way. Plants and wildlife adapt to the cooler weather, providing a unique opportunity to appreciate the desert flora and fauna in their natural environment. You may spot migratory birds, flowering cacti and perhaps even the odd native animal, such as the coyote.

Visiting the Phoenix Zoo in December is an exciting experience, especially since it is possible to participate in the interactive Christmas exhibits. These activities are not only educational, but also fun and engaging, making it one of the ideal options to enjoy with children in the city.

During your visit, you will have the opportunity to feed animals such as giraffes, parrots and lemurs. It is a unique experience to see these majestic creatures up close as you feed them. You can also see the Christmas decorations and visit the complex at night to see the lights on the trees, where you can have your picture taken.

Aside from feeding the animals, the zoo has a variety of interactive exhibits that allow visitors to learn more about wildlife. You can participate in activities such as touching reptiles, watching birds in flight and exploring natural habitat exhibits.

December is a pleasant time to visit the Phoenix Zoo, as temperatures are usually mild and pleasant. This allows visitors to comfortably enjoy the outdoor exhibits and interactive activities without the extreme heat of summer. Plus, the festive seasonal atmosphere will add a special tinge to your visit, as the zoo will remain decorated and offer themed events throughout the month.

Walking through Downtown Phoenix in December is a magical experience that allows you to discover the lights and decorations that adorn the city during the holiday season. As you enter the illuminated streets, you'll be immersed in a festive atmosphere full of joy and holiday spirit.

The heart of the city is transformed into a light show in December, with decorated buildings, illuminated trees and streets adorned with garlands and Christmas decorations. Strolling through the streets will soak in the atmosphere of the eve, which is filled with Christmas music and bustling crowds.

During the walk, which you can do on your own or join one of Phoenix's best tours and excursions, you'll discover a variety of scenes and light shows, from glittering Christmas trees to light projections on buildings. Downtown restaurants and shops also join in the festivities, decorating their windows and offering special events.

Whether you're walking alone, as a couple or as a family, strolling around Downtown Phoenix in December is a memorable experience. You can stop at the many cafes and restaurants to enjoy a cup of hot chocolate or sample delicious holiday desserts. You'll also find special events such as outdoor concerts and holiday markets.

Watching the Lighted Boat Parade on Tempe Town Lake in December is a magical experience that captures the holiday spirit and creates unforgettable memories. This annual event attracts thousands of visitors and offers a unique view of boats decorated with holiday lights sailing the waters of the lake.

The Parade of Lights Boat Parade is a breathtaking spectacle that combines the beauty of the lights with the serenity of the lake. The boats are meticulously decorated with brightly coloured lights, creating a dazzling sight that illuminates the water and reflects its glow on the surface.

Tempe Town Lake provides the perfect backdrop for this parade, as its natural and tranquil setting provides an idyllic setting to enjoy the event. You can find a strategic spot on the shores of the lake to watch the parade and marvel at the creativity and effort that has gone into decorating each boat.

In addition to enjoying the parade itself, the event also often features additional activities such as live music, food stalls and craft vendors. It's a perfect opportunity to enjoy an afternoon or evening with the family, indulging in culinary delights, listening to festive music and soaking up the joyous and festive atmosphere at one of the best places to visit from Phoenix.

Visiting the Heard Museum Christmas Market in December is an enchanting experience that will immerse you in the magic of the holiday season and allow you to explore the rich Native American culture. This annual event is one of the most popular in Phoenix during the holidays, offering a wide range of traditional crafts, art and food.

The market features numerous booths where Native American artists and artisans display their work. You can find handmade jewellery, textiles, ceramics and sculptures, all with unique designs that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Native American tribes.

In addition to shopping, the Heard Museum Holiday Market offers an immersive experience with live music, traditional dances and craft demonstrations. You can delight in cultural performances that transport you to the ancient traditions of Native American tribes, immersing you in their music, rituals and artistic expressions during a visit to one of Phoenix's finest museums.

Food is also an essential part of this holiday market. Savour delicious traditional Native American tribal cuisine, such as fry bread, green chili and traditional sweets.

Visiting the Chapel of the Holy Cross in December from Phoenix is an experience that combines natural beauty and spirituality. Located atop a hill about 170 kilometres from the state capital, this iconic chapel offers panoramic views of the desert landscape and is a place of worship. You can reach it by car along I-17N or by private transfer, but either way it's well worth the visit.

In December, the Chapel of the Holy Cross dresses up for Christmas. You can attend Christmas celebrations at this sacred site, where faith and the beauty of the surroundings are intertwined. You can also participate in masses, carol concerts and other festive activities.

In addition to the religious celebrations, the Chapel of the Holy Cross offers the opportunity to enjoy the peace and serenity of the surroundings. You can walk around the surrounding gardens, which are adorned with Christmas decorations, and admire the unique architecture of the chapel, which combines modern and traditional elements.

The Chapel of the Holy Cross is also a popular place to take photographs, especially at sunset, when the sun sets behind the mountains and creates a magical atmosphere. It is the perfect backdrop for capturing special moments and creating lasting memories during a visit to Sedona from Phoenix, where you can also enjoy some of the best balloon flights.

New Year's Eve at Westgate Bars in Phoenix is an exciting and fun-filled experience to welcome in the New Year. Westgate Entertainment District is known for being one of the city's premier entertainment destinations, and during New Year's Eve, it comes alive with a festive and vibrant atmosphere.

Westgate bars offer a variety of options for celebrating New Year's Eve. From sports bars to stylish lounges and nightclubs, you'll find something to suit all tastes and styles.

The festive atmosphere spreads throughout the district, with Christmas decorations, twinkling lights and live music. Stroll the streets, enjoy street performances and join the lively crowds as they gather to celebrate the start of a new year. If you visit Phoenix in January, you can also take part in the district's themed parties on winter nights.

Aside from the fun in the bars, Westgate also has a wide selection of restaurants where you can enjoy a delicious dinner to see the year out. From local cuisine to international options, there is something to satisfy every palate and celebrate the occasion in a special way.

Attending a Phoenix Symphony performance in December is an enriching cultural experience that will immerse you in the magic of classical music during the holiday season. The city's symphony is renowned for its exceptional talent and breathtaking performances that thrill audiences.

During the month of December, the Phoenix Symphony presents a series of special holiday-themed concerts. These concerts highlight classic seasonal favourites such as Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker and Bach's Christmas Oratorio, among others. The orchestra, led by renowned conductors from around the world, creates a magical atmosphere that transports you into the holiday spirit.

Attending a Phoenix Symphony concert in December also gives you the opportunity to appreciate the talents of outstanding guest soloists and choirs, who join the orchestra to perform iconic pieces of classical music.

In addition to the music, the atmosphere in the theatre is warm and festive, with holiday décor that immerses you in the atmosphere of the season.

Taking a guided tour of Saguaro National Park in December in Phoenix is an exceptional experience that allows you to explore and marvel at the natural beauty of the desert at one of the most enjoyable times of the year. Saguaro National Park is known for its iconic saguaro cacti, which dominate the landscape and provide a breathtaking spectacle.

During the month of December, temperatures in Saguaro National Park are pleasant, with warm days and cool nights. This provides perfect weather for exploring the trails and enjoying the panoramic views the park has to offer. In addition, the crowds are smaller compared to the summer months in Phoenix, allowing you to enjoy a quieter, more personalised experience.

A guided tour of Saguaro National Park will give you the opportunity to learn about the flora and fauna of the desert, as well as the cultural and historical significance of the region. Local guides are familiar with the park and will take you through the most outstanding trails, sharing their knowledge and answering your questions.

During your visit, you can marvel at the majesty of the saguaro cacti, observe native birds and other animals, and even learn about the ancient indigenous cultures that inhabited the region on the best desert tours from Phoenix.

Keeping with tradition and visiting the Montezuma Castle National Monument in Phoenix is a unique way to bid farewell to the year and attract good luck according to legend. Montezuma Castle is a fascinating historic structure built by the ancient Sinagua civilisation, and its mystery and beauty make it a must-see destination.

Legend has it that those who visit Montezuma Castle on New Year's Eve and take a last look at the year that is ending have the opportunity to leave behind any bad luck and start the new year with good omens. This belief has attracted numerous visitors who seek to connect with the history and spirituality of the place.

During your visit to Montezuma Castle, you can admire the ancient architecture and impressive ruins that are perched on top of a hill. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape and connect with the energy and history of this sacred site.

Montezuma Castle National Monument also offers opportunities to learn about the culture and traditions of the Native Americans who inhabited the area.

In December, temperatures in Phoenix are pleasant and provide a respite from the extreme heat of summer. During the day, temperatures usually range between 20° and 25°, allowing you to enjoy outdoor activities without feeling overwhelmed by the heat. However, it is important to note that evenings can be cooler, with temperatures dropping to around 10°.

December weather in Phoenix is ideal for exploring the city and its surroundings. You can enjoy walks in the parks, visit the many nearby tourist destinations, such as the Grand Canyon, and participate in outdoor events. In addition, the cool temperatures make it pleasant for activities such as hiking, cycling and golfing.

In December, Phoenix experiences a significant increase in tourism due to the pleasant temperatures and the large number of events and festivities that take place during this month. Many visitors choose Phoenix as a winter holiday destination to escape the cold of other regions, as well as to spend Christmas and New Year's Eve.

Phoenix's main attractions in December include festivals of lights, parades, Christmas markets and cultural events. The city is filled with a festive and welcoming atmosphere, which attracts tourists from far and wide. However, despite the increased crowds, it is possible to find accommodation and enjoy the attractions without feeling overly crowded.

In December, prices in Phoenix can vary depending on tourist demand and seasonal festivities. It is important to note that due to the increased influx of visitors, some services and accommodations may increase in price.

In general, you will find a wide range of accommodation options in a variety of price ranges, from luxury hotels to budget accommodation. You'll also find restaurants and bars to eat cheaply, with options to suit all budgets, although prices may rise in Phoenix over the Christmas period.

For much of the year the temperature is pleasant and stable in Phoenix and December, despite the imminent arrival of winter, is no exception, so I advise you to pack the following in your suitcase:

• Safe mountain footwear
• Mountain coat
• Light jacket
• Comfortable shoes
• Wool jumpers
• Lightweight T-shirt
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Lightweight trousers