Holidays in Tempe
Spend the Holidays in Tempe, Arizona
It’s the most wonderful time of year in Tempe, Arizona. From twinkling lights to holiday events, we invite visitors and residents to celebrate the magic of the season with festive fun, shopping excursions, cozy coffee shops, delightful patio dining, decorative parades and more — all happening here.
Events and Festivities in Tempe
Spending the holiday season in Tempe offers endless possibilities. From seeing the sights to festive lights, this season’s lineup of events is sure to deliver holiday magic to the entire family.
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Shop Local For Gifts This Year
Shop Tempe’s locally owned businesses for those who cherish one-of-a-kind gifts. Explore specialty shops, boutiques and more to find unique art, treats, apparel and experiences for everyone on your list. Added bonus: You’ll feel good about supporting small businesses.
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Holi-Stay at a Tempe Hotel
Take a holiday break! Stay in one of Tempe’s welcoming hotels or invite your friends and family to visit you this season. Explore our hotels and find one that’s the perfect fit.
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Holiday Shopping
Take your holiday shopping game to the next level at Tempe Marketplace, Arizona Mills or Downtown Tempe. Your friends and family will thank you.
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Music in the Garden: Spring 2025
Desert Botanical Garden
Through May 30, 2025
Music in the Garden Concert Series is back at Desert Botanical Garden with a new way to enjoy lively musical acts on select dates from January through May.
Stray Cat Theatre at Tempe Center for the Arts
Tempe Center for the Arts
Through May 18, 2025
For the 2024-2025 season, Stray Cat Theatre brings The Minutes, Sweat, Fetal and Little Shop of Horrors to the Tempe Center for the Arts.
Arizona Theatre Company at Tempe Center for the Arts
Tempe Center for the Arts
Through June 29, 2025
Arizona Theatre Company’s 56th Season kicks off its five-show lineup in October 2023 at Tempe Center for the Arts.
Fantasy of Lights Street Parade
Downtown Tempe
November 28, 2025
A holiday tradition enjoyed by generations — the Downtown Tempe Fantasy of Lights Street Parade features a tree lighting ceremony, live entertainment, Santa photos and so much more!
Tempe Fall Festival of the Arts
Downtown Tempe
December 5, 2025 – December 7, 2025
The Tempe Festival of the Arts offers visitors a distinct shopping experience each fall and spring in Downtown Tempe. More than 300 artist booths line Mill Avenue and the surrounding streets presenting unique, and hand-made artwork.
Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade at Tempe Town Lake
Tempe Town Lake and Tempe Beach Park
December 13, 2025
The Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade at Tempe Town Lake is the Valley’s most unique holiday event and celebrated tradition. Enjoy holiday shopping, festive eats and treats, a dazzling boat parade.
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Experience the Magic of the Desert Botanical Garden
Step out of the city and into the Sonoran Desert landscapes of the Desert Botanical Garden. Home to more than 50,000 arid plants from deserts around the world — from towering cacti to colorful wildflowers — this magical oasis invites you to immerse yourself in 140 acres of natural beauty.
Tempe’s Top Breakfast Spots
If you prefer to start your day off immersed in the scene, dining at local gems and sipping espresso or cocktails (or both), you’re going to love mornings in Tempe.
