Justin Ferris for Phoenix.org
Need something interesting or exciting to do this weekend? The Valley offers dozens of events and attractions, which makes for a tough decision.
To help you out, we rounded up some of the best options, including free festivals, quirky concerts and more. Keep reading to see what they are.
Hint: You can also receive this list in your inbox every week by clicking here.
1. Immerse yourself in amazing art for free
Friday, December 2 to Sunday, December 4
Tempe Festival of the Arts returns with nearly 400 top artists from around the country, plus new entertainment venues, a kids’ area, a local artisan market and old favorites like Chalk-A-Lot Street.
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2. Hear the Christmas story in a new way
Friday, December 2 to Sunday, December 4
The familiar Christmas story gets a twist with this high-energy, joyful, gospel-infused “song-play” by Harlem Renaissance poet Langston Hughes.
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3. Wear your PJs outdoors
Friday, December 2
You don’t need to get dressed up for a Friday night out. Wear your PJs to watch free movies in the park: the family-friendly “Polar Express” and the more adult “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.”
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4. Tour the ultimate Christmas house
Friday, December 2 and Saturday, December 3
Walk through an 11,000 sq. ft. luxury home bursting with thousands of holiday decorations. They range from ornaments to fully decorated trees, any of which you can buy on the spot – or just use for ideas. Proceeds go to college scholarships and local charities.
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5. Visit a pet-friendly holiday festival
Saturday, December 3
Your fur baby can join you at this free pet-lover holiday festival, which includes a pet fashion show, agility course, pet products and supplies, and free or discounted pet care services.
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6. Brighten your life with more holiday lights
Saturday, December 3
Multiple light festivals around the Valley are still going strong and another one kicks off this weekend, plus a major light parade. And it’s all free.
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7. Attend a new handmade market
Saturday, December 3 and Sunday, December 4
Browse a huge range of handmade goods from more than 150 local vendors at Phoenix’s newest market. Wine and beer are available to drink while you shop.
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8. Discover Asia
Saturday, December 3 and Sunday, December 4
This free two-day event called “Asian Treasures” features Asian cuisine, an Avenue of Cultures, arts and crafts, live performances, a marketplace and a fashion show. Plus, families will enjoy the Children’s Wonderland, which includes juggling lessons.
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9. Experience Scandinavia
Saturday, December 3 and Sunday, December 4
Take a journey to the northern countries to watch traditional Scandinavian dance and a “Gladamusik” performance. Then hear a talk about folk costumes, eat Scandinavian food, make a drum and more, plus activities for kids.
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10. Enjoy this unusual orchestra
Sunday, December 4
The oddest orchestra on either side of the pond, the Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain bring its unique charm, witty banter and fun take on holiday music to the Valley. Plus, enjoy an audience play-and-sing along.
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Bonus: Find more to do at Phoenix.org
This weekend also sees holiday celebrations in Peoria, Mesa and Goodyear that include tons of snow; more arts and crafts festivals, including a World Bazaar; holiday concerts from the Phoenix Symphony and other major Valley arts organizations; an off-road swap meet; and much more.
Visit Phoenix.org/events to learn more >>
Hot Upcoming Events
Scottsdale Golf Week
Monday, December 5 to Sunday, December 11
Take advantage of the mild Valley winter and enjoy fantastic deals and packages on the best golf courses, hotels and restaurants in the area. Plus, enjoy golf-focused happy hours and plenty more.
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Mamma Mia!: The Farewell Tour
Tuesday, December 6 to Sunday, December 11
Don’t miss the whirlwind tale of soon-to-be-bride Sophie’s search to find her father to walk her down the aisle. Featuring hit songs from ABBA, including “Dancing Queen,” “Super Trouper,” “Take A Chance on Me,” “The Winner Takes It All,” and, of course, “Mamma Mia.”
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