Find your holiday cheer in Flagstaff with our ultimate guide. Whether Flagstaff is your backyard or a new adventure, our guide highlights the best holiday events.
In the heart of winter, the North Pole Experience invites visitors to a magical journey where families can meet Santa Claus and explore an enchanting holiday village. Another highlight is the Grand Canyon Railway’s Polar Express, which offers a scenic train ride that brings the beloved story to life with hot cocoa and festive entertainment. And the Noon Year's Eve celebration is something you definitely don't want to miss, featuring family-friendly festivities to ring in the New Year with joy and excitement. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Top Holiday Events In and Around Flagstaff
- Grand Canyon Railway’s Polar Express (Williams)
- North Pole Experience
- Noon Year's Eve
- Lights at the Station
- A Christmas Carol - A Twisted Musical Comedy
- Holiday Shopping Passport
- Arizona Nordic Village Winter Activities
- Paseo Navideño: A Christmas Journey Through Mexico
- Howlidays Pawp-Up Event
See these and even more events listed below!
Flagstaff Holiday Light Displays
Lights at the Station
What to Expect:
Dazzling light display by historic steam locomotive.
Description:
The Lights at the Station is a free holiday light display located in the heart of historic downtown Flagstaff. The event features tens of thousands of sparkling lights, including a dazzling display by the 1911 Baldwin Steam locomotive, Old Two Spot. Visitors can take a short stroll east of the Visitor Center to capture the magic of the holiday lights.
Where: Flagstaff | More Info: Lights at the Station
Flagstaff Holiday Markets and Shopping
Holiday Shopping Passport
What to Expect:
Shop at participating businesses to win prizes.
Description:
Explore Downtown Flagstaff's holiday shopping scene with the Holiday Shopping Passport, featuring over 20 local businesses offering unique gifts and seasonal items.
Where: Flagstaff | More Info: Holiday Shopping Passport
Flagstaff Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Grand Canyon Railway’s Polar Express
What to Expect:
Interactive storytelling with Santa Claus on a vintage train.
Description:
The Grand Canyon Railway's Polar Express is a holiday event where families board a vintage train in Williams, Arizona, for a 90-minute journey to the North Pole. Along the way, passengers enjoy hot chocolate, cookies, and the classic Polar Express story. Santa Claus visits each car, distributing keepsake bells to children. The event includes additional activities like story time with Mrs. Claus and a Naughty or Nice Meter.
Where: Williams | More Info: Grand Canyon Railway’s Polar Express
A Christmas Carol - A Twisted Musical Comedy
What to Expect:
A modern twist on a classic tale with audience participation.
Description:
A Christmas Carol - A Twisted Musical Comedy is a unique adaptation of Charles Dickens' classic tale, blending traditional fairy tale elements with modern parodies and popular music. Directed by Alistair Clinton and featuring Chris Verrill, this production offers a fresh take on the beloved story, engaging both kids and adults with its humor and audience participation.
Where: Flagstaff | More Info: A Christmas Carol - A Twisted Musical Comedy
Paseo Navideño: A Christmas Journey Through Mexico
What to Expect:
Traditional Mexican folk dances with elaborate sets and costumes.
Description:
Paseo Navideño: A Christmas Journey Through Mexico features masterful creations by Sergio Padilla's Ballet Folklorico, showcasing traditional Mexican folk dances that entertain and educate the community.
Where: Flagstaff | More Info: Paseo Navideño: A Christmas Journey Through Mexico
Flagstaff Other Holiday Activities
North Pole Experience
What to Expect:
Interactive holiday activities with Santa's elves and a private visit with Santa.
Description:
Step into Santa's 400-year-old workshop and explore the toy factory, Mrs. Claus Bakery, Elf University, and Santa's Sleigh Hangar. Meet Santa's Toy Soldiers, build toys with elves, and enjoy freshly baked treats. Each child receives a complimentary digital family portrait and a 2024 teddy bear from Santa.
Where: Flagstaff | More Info: North Pole Experience
Howlidays Pawp-Up Event
What to Expect:
Community-driven holiday celebration with live music and crafts.
Description:
The Howlidays Pawp-Up Event is a community celebration featuring live music, crafts, and activities for all ages.
Where: Flagstaff | More Info: Howlidays Pawp-Up Event
Noon Year's Eve
What to Expect:
Family-friendly New Year's Eve celebration with crafts and activities.
Description:
Celebrate the start of the new year with a family-friendly daytime event featuring crafts, cookie decorating, and a special Pine Cone Drop.
Where: Flagstaff | More Info: Noon Year's Eve
Arizona Nordic Village Winter Activities
What to Expect:
Extensive winter sports facilities with backcountry lodging options.
Description:
Arizona Nordic Village offers over 40 kilometers of groomed trails for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and fat biking. The village also provides cozy cabins and yurts for lodging, with some located near the main lodge and others in the backcountry. Guests can access WIFI and restrooms at the main lodge.