Tumbleweed Tree Lighting Festival
Let’s kick things off with one of Chandler’s most iconic holiday traditions, the Tumbleweed Tree Lighting Festival. Every year, the city constructs a massive Christmas tree…made entirely out of tumbleweeds! This unique desert display draws thousands to watch the ceremonial tree lighting and fireworks show. The event also features live entertainment, food trucks, hot cocoa, and even a visit from Santa himself. It’s an evening jam-packed with holiday cheer that’s perfect for kids and kids-at-heart alike.
Address: A. J. Chandler Park 3 S. Arizona Ave Chandler, AZ 85225
Phone: 480-782-2717
Las Noches de las Luminarias
This annual event fills the Desert Botanical Garden with the warm glow of thousands of hand-lit luminaria bags. As you stroll the garden’s trails, you’ll be surrounded by the soft illumination and live musicians playing holiday tunes. The garden’s incredible light displays and glittering sculptures make for a truly enchanting experience. Las Noches de las Luminarias runs from November 25th through December 23rd this year. Timed-entry tickets are required and tend to sell out, so grab yours early! Food and drink are available for purchase, making this a delightful date night option too.
Address: 1201 N. Galvin Parkway Phoenix, AZ 85008
Phone: 480-941-1225
ZooLights at the Phoenix Zoo
The Phoenix Zoo gets decked out in over 7 million dazzling lights for this wildly popular event. In addition to admiring all the colorful displays, visitors can ride the Endangered Species Carousel, watch 3D festive shows, sip hot chocolate, and even ice skate! New attractions are added every year to keep ZooLights feeling fresh. This extravaganza is included with zoo admission and runs from November 23rd through January 15th. Evening entry ensures you can walk amongst the illuminated animal exhibits too. Arrive early as the last guests are admitted at 9pm.
Address: 455 N. Galvin Parkway Phoenix, AZ 85008
Phone: 602-286-3800
Rawhide Western Town & Event Center
Experience an old-fashioned western holiday at Rawhide’s Stocked’n Greet’n event series! From late November through December, this replica 1880s town gets overtaken by holiday-themed shows, musicians, and carolers. You can even take photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus in their rustic homestead. While visiting, treat the kids (and yourself!) to activities like gold panning, horse-drawn wagon rides, watching the hilarious Rough Rider Stunt Show, and shopping for unique gifts at the mercantile. The event is included with Rawhide admission.
Address: 5700 W North Loop Rd Chandler, AZ 85226
Phone: 480-502-5600
Glow Putt Adventure Golf
For a fun indoor option, head over to this blacklight mini golf course that’s been decked out with a holiday glow theme! Glow Putt’s two 18-hole courses let you putt your way through a dazzling neon winter wonderland environment filled with special effects like fluorescent trees, a sparkling snowfall curtain, and more. The venue also has a fun arcade, a rocky mountain climbing wall, and a snack bar with beer and wine for the adults. It’s a great place to spend a lively evening with the whole group.
Address: 3420 W Frye Rd Chandler, AZ 85226
Phone: 480-940-0010
Downtown Chandler Holiday Treats Tour
What could be sweeter than a tour sampling all the amazing holiday treats and goodies around Downtown Chandler? This festive walking tour hits up local spots baking up decadent seasonal sweets, from peppermint bark and cocoa bombs to buttery shortbread and more. Along the way, you’ll learn about Chandler’s charming history as you take in the neighborhood’s beautiful light displays. Holiday-themed cocktail pairings are available too for those 21+. Public and private tour options are offered Thursday-Sunday evenings throughout December.
TCHO Chocolatier Factory Tour
Speaking of sweet treats…get an inside look at how amazing artisan chocolates are handmade! Just 20 minutes from Downtown Chandler, the acclaimed TCHO Chocolatier offers public factory tours and tastings year-round. During the holidays, they pull out all the stops with seasonal chocolate flavors and products. You can even fill a iconic Buddha ornament with the flavored chocolate of your choice. The factory store is a chocolate lover’s dream with whimsical gifts and unique stocking stuffers galore. Factory tours run Saturdays & Sundays.
Address: 3501 W Estrella Dr Phoenix, AZ 85027
Phone: 510-443-5554
Fantasy in Lights Parade
No holiday season is complete without taking in a festive parade! Chandler’s annual Fantasy in Lights Parade has been a beloved tradition since 1964. This illuminated spectacle features gorgeously lit-up floats, dancers, marching bands, and even an appearance by Santa himself. Bring lawn chairs and blankets to cozy up along the parade route running through Downtown Chandler on December 17th at 7pm. Free parking is available at the Park&Ride lot on Commonwealth Ave and Gilbert Rd, but spaces fill up fast so arrive early!
Rent With Party Bus Chandler To Hit Every Attraction
With so many merry delights awaiting, you’ll want to hit as many of Chandler’s holiday attractions as possible. But coordinating transportation for a large group from place to place can quickly turn into a massive headache. Parking issues, getting separated, bad weather—all holiday joy killers! The simplest solution? Book a charter bus with Party Bus Chandler! We offer a variety of premium buses that can accommodate groups of all sizes comfortably. Our professional team will handle all the logistics while everyone focuses on just soaking in the season’s cheer together. Sprawl out in plush seating, watch a holiday movie on the TVs, or crank up the festive tunes as you cruise between attractions. You can even bring snacks and beverages to fuel the merriment onboard! With Party Bus Chandler at the wheel, a smooth, stress-free holiday adventure awaits. Experience the magic of the season in Chandler to the fullest by calling Party Bus Chandler today at 602-627-0325. Let us take care of the transportation so you can create unforgettable holiday memories with your loved ones.