The High Country Holidays in Flagstaff bring together the warm memories of past holidays with new traditions for family and friends to embrace. From Thanksgiving through the New Year, Flagstaff is abuzz with plenty of holiday spirit and residents and visitors alike will share in the joy of the season.
With crisp mountain air and roaring fireplaces, Flagstaff will warm your soul and refresh your spirits. We invite you to experience the High Country Holidays and make Flagstaff your new holiday tradition.
NEW THIS WINTER
Snow Biking
This winter try snow biking at the Flagstaff Nordic Center. Their fleet of Surly Pugsleys will be available to rent all winter long, regardless of snow conditions. The Nordic Center is open with 25 kilometers of dedicated multi-use trails groomed and available for snow biking, in addition to dedicated cross-country skiing and snow shoeing trails.
THROUGHOUT DECEMBER
North Pole Experience
Trolleys leave from Little America Hotel Visit Santa’s 8,500 square-foot Workshop which includes Santa’s Toy Building Workshop, office, Santa’s Bakery and Elf University.
Tours at Riordan Mansion
- Through December - Riordan Mansion State Historic Park ·
- (928) 775-4395
- azstateparks.gov
Guided tours include glimpses of folklore and traditions of Christmas, both past and present. Complete with turn-of-the-century style wreaths, garlands and a towering decorated fir tree.
Holiday Lights Festival
- November 24 - through December - Little America Hotel ·
- (928) 799-7900
Each year Flagstaff decorates over 500 acres with millions of lights in a stunning holiday display.
Grand Canyon Railway’s Polar Express
- Through January 4 - Grand Canyon Railway (Williams) ·
- 1-800-THE-TRAIN
- thetrain.com
A special chance for the entire family to travel to the “North Pole” and visit Santa Claus. Advance reservations required, call today.
Star of Bethlehem Program
- December 2-23 - Lowell Observatory·
- (928) 233-3211
- lowell.edu
Discuss the astronomical interpretation of the Star of Bethlehem, telescope viewings and other indoor programs will be available.
It’s a Wonderful Life presented by Theatrikos Theatre Company
- December 5-21 - Doris Harper-White Playhouse ·
- (928) 774-1662
- theatrikos.com
The saga of George Bailey, whose guardian angel has to descend on Christmas Eve to save him.
Winter Wonderland
Santa and the Mayor arrive at 5 p.m. on the BNSF train and head to Heritage Square to flip the switch to downtown’s holiday show of lights. Enjoy refreshments plus arts and crafts for kids.
First Friday ArtWalk presented by Flagstaff Cultural Partners
Enjoy live music, entertaining street performances, meet local artists and browse unique downtown shops and galleries.
Hot Buttered Rum with Dead Winter Carpenters
All ages show. Enjoy an evening with Hot Buttered Rum and special guests Dead Winter Carpenters. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. and show starts at 8:30 p.m.
Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra Presents: The Nutcracker Ballet
Featuring a kid-friendly version for children of all ages in collaboration with NAU Community Music and Dance Academy Ballet Troupe.
Fine Craft Sale & Artist Marketplace
Featuring beautiful one-of-a-kind, handmade works of art from 18 local artists, browse original holiday ornaments and enjoy refreshments while listening to a local choral group.
The Nutcracker Suite in Modern Bare Feet
The classical music of Peter Tchaikovsky accompanied by more than 75 dancers to create a unique take on the holiday classic.
Northern Lights Holiday Parade
A holiday parade filled with dozens of twinkling floats, marching bands and don’t miss Santa Claus.
Christmas in the Mountains presented by Master Chorale of Flagstaff
A holiday concert filled with familiar carols and seasonal songs for the entire family! Featuring a handbell choir, a full orchestra and more.
Winter Holiday Celebration
- Thursday-Tuesday, December 26-31 - Lowell Observatory ·
- (928) 233-3211
- lowell.edu
- Lowell Observatory extends its hours and offers indoor programs and special tours.
The Great Pine Cone Drop
A New Year’s Eve tradition and a fun event for all ages. The Pine Cone will drop at 10 p.m. for families and again at midnight.
from embassysuites.com:
Enjoy the High Country of Arizona this Holiday Season at the High Country Hotel -- Embassy Suites Flagstaff
All Guests of Embassy Suites Flagstaff enjoy:
- Free cooked to order breakfast
- Complimentary Evening Reception
- Two Room Suites
- Packages that include Free Internet, Ski Lift tickets, Bonus Hhonor Points and more
Click here and make your High Country Holidays complete with an overnight stay at Embassy Suites Flagstaff
