Shop for the holidays at these outdoor art festivals, and discover more top things to do in Phoenix this weekend:
Phoenix Festival of the Arts
December 9-11
Join the community and Phoenix Center for the Arts for a celebration of local talent, food and art. More than 125 vendors and cultural groups will gather to sell crafted glassware, jewelry, mixed media, photography and more, and to entertain with demonstrations and live music. Get hands-on with a community mural project, and enjoy food truck fare.
Margaret T. Hance Park, 1202 N. 3rd St., Phoenix AZ 85003
(602) 254-3100
Photo via Phoenix Festival of the Arts
Lights of the World Lantern Festival
Through January 29
While not a classic display of holiday lights, this massive showcase of sparkling displays and exhibits feels right at home for the season. Inspired by traditional Chinese lantern festivals, Lights of the World features an eclectic collection of odes to real-world structures like the Eiffel Tower and London Bridge, sections dedicated to undersea life and dinosaurs, and even a few festive holiday displays. And if the lights don’t keep you busy enough, there are carnival rides and acrobatic performances available throughout the night.
Rawhide Western Town, 5700 W North Loop Rd, Chandler 85226
(480) 502-5600
Mesa Arts Festival
December 10-11
Mesa Arts Center’s annual event offers a holiday gift shopping opportunity: You’ll find original works by artists, both local and national, in a variety of mediums. Explore the festival to find performers on stage and roaming the campus, ongoing art demonstrations and food for purchase.
1 E. Main St., Mesa 85211
(480) 644-6500
Mesa Arts Festival. Photo via Facebook
Pueblo Grande Museum Auxiliary Indian Market
December 10-11
The highlight of Pueblo Grande Museum’s two-day event is a collection of American Indian fine art and collectibles for sale from more than 100 vendors. You can also experience cultural dance and music performances, try traditional foods and explore the museum’s archaeological sites.
4619 E. Washington St., Phoenix 85034
(602) 495-0901
Holiday Performances
Cozy up inside on a cool evening for a traditional performance of Ballet Arizona’s The Nutcracker, taking the stage December 9-11, 14-18, and 20-24 at Phoenix Symphony Hall. Ring in the season with more shows throughout this weekend:
A Christmas Carol at Hale Centre Theatre: December 8-10, 12-17, 19-24
A Christmas Carol at Herberger Theater Center by Arizona Broadway Theatre: December 10-11, 16-18, 20-24
Celebration of Christmas at Dream City Church: December 8-11, 14-20
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever at Mesa Arts Center: December 8-11
More weekend events