This holiday season, Arizona’s state parks are brimming with festive cheer, and you’re invited to join the fun! Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in Victorian holiday traditions, solve a festive mystery, or enjoy the beauty of the outdoors, there’s a special holiday event waiting for you.

For event details and updates, visit AZStateParks.com/Holiday-Events.

Step Back in Time with Historic Holiday Celebrations

Feel the magic of the season as you explore the rich history of Arizona’s state parks. At Riordan Mansion State Historic Park in Flagstaff, you’ll be transported to the turn of the century with wreaths, garlands, greenery, and a towering fir tree adorned with old-fashioned ornaments. Guided tours run throughout December and into early January, offering a glimpse into Christmas traditions of the past. For a truly enchanting evening, don’t miss the Christmas Twilight Tours from December 20-23, where the glow of original 1904 Edison-style bulbs and luminarias light your way. Plus, on December 20, Santa will be there to make your visit extra magical!

Celebrate a Victorian Christmas at Fort Verde State Historic Park in central Arizona or Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park in southern Arizona. Fort Verde offers beautifully decorated homes on Officer’s Row and special Candlelight Tours on December 14 and 21 for an intimate holiday experience.

In Tombstone, step into the spirit of the Old West during the park’s annual Victorian Christmas on December 14 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. You’ll enjoy free admission, kids’ crafts, Faro demonstrations, a pickle hunt with prizes, sleight-of-hand magic, caroling, and festive photo ops. Don’t forget to say hello to Santa and Mrs. Claus as they spread holiday cheer!

Unique and Imaginative Holiday Activities

Looking for something a little different this holiday season? Head to Jerome State Historic Park, where you can join the Unlock the Christmas Spirit challenge between December 13 and 31. The halls of the Douglas Mansion are decorated for the season and hold clues to a scavenger hunt inspired by Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol.

For an unforgettable outdoor adventure, join the Winter Solstice Night Hike at Catalina State Park on December 21. You’ll walk the Nature Trail Loop under the desert night sky, learn about the cultural significance of the solstice, discover nocturnal wildlife, and explore constellations on the longest night of the year.

Festive Family Fun and Santa Sightings

Bring your family to Arizona’s state parks to make memories you’ll treasure. At Oracle State Park, the Santa and Songs event on December 14 invites you to take photos with Santa in the historic Kannally Ranch House, decked out in holiday decor. Enjoy an afternoon of music and holiday cheer with your loved ones.

Santa’s magic continues at Patagonia Lake State Park on December 21, where you can join the fun with ornament crafts, a campsite decoration contest, and a special visit from Santa himself.

Arizona’s state parks are the perfect places to make your holiday season merry and bright. Whether you’re exploring historic sites, enjoying candlelit tours, or hiking under a starry sky, these events offer something for everyone. As the New Year approaches, plan to start 2025 off right by joining a First Day Hike on January 1 to explore the beauty of Arizona’s great outdoors.

Choose a holiday adventure today at AZStateParks.com/Holiday-Events.