Christmas in Prescott - Holiday Activities & Events

Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year in Arizona’s official “Christmas City!” Downtown Prescott shines brighter than ever during the holiday season, with twinkling lights, joyful parades, musical performances, and plenty of family-friendly fun for children of all ages.

Why Prescott Is Arizona’s Christmas City

Every December, Prescott transforms into a winter wonderland filled with historic charm, glowing lights, and the sound of carolers echoing through the downtown square. The crisp mountain air, family-friendly festivities, and cozy small-town feel make it one of the best Christmas destinations in Arizona. Whether you’re watching the Courthouse Lighting, enjoying hot cocoa by the bonfire, or counting down to the Boot Drop on Whiskey Row, Prescott is where holiday memories come to life.

Prescott Holiday Event Schedule 2025

Prescott’s holiday season is packed with festive traditions, perfect for visitors and locals alike. Here’s the lineup of annual celebrations happening this year:

  • 28th Annual Holiday Light Parade & Bonfire Festival – Saturday, November 29 at 6:00 PM | Bonfire at Mile High Middle School at 7:00 PM. Watch beautifully lit floats travel through downtown Prescott and warm up by the giant bonfire afterward.
  • 43rd Annual Christmas Parade – Saturday, December 6 at 1:00 PM. Enjoy marching bands, dance troupes, and festive floats, followed by Meet Santa on the Plaza at 3:00 PM.
  • 71st Annual Courthouse Lighting – Saturday, December 6 at 5:00 PM. Experience the breathtaking moment when over 100,000 sparkling lights illuminate the historic Courthouse Plaza, followed by a spectacular fireworks show.
  • 37th Annual Acker Night Musical Showcase – Friday, December 12 starting at 5:00 PM. Stroll through downtown Prescott as shops and galleries come alive with live holiday music, carolers, and festive cheer.
  • Prescott Christmas Village & Christkindl Market – Saturday, December 13 & Sunday, December 14 from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM. A family-friendly German-style market filled with handcrafted gifts, ornaments, food stalls, and live entertainment.
  • Frontier Christmas at Sharlot Hall Museum – Saturday, December 6 from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM. Step back in time with Victorian-era crafts, Father Christmas, cookies, and hot cider.
  • Festival of Trees Prescott – November 19–23. View beautifully decorated Christmas trees, vote for your favorite, and enjoy kids’ craft areas and photo opportunities.
  • 15th Annual Whiskey Row New Year’s Eve Boot Drop – Wednesday, December 31 at 7:00 PM & midnight. Ring in 2026 with live music, street entertainment, and fireworks as a giant glowing boot drops on Whiskey Row!

Family-Friendly Things to Do During Christmas in Prescott

Beyond the main events, there are plenty of activities designed for families, children, and those seeking old-fashioned holiday fun in Arizona’s Christmas City:

  • Take photos with Santa Claus during the Christmas Parade or Christkindl Market – a must-do for kids!
  • Enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides around downtown Prescott under the holiday lights for a magical evening experience.
  • Explore Prescott’s Courthouse Plaza Holiday Lights Walk with a cup of hot cocoa – perfect for family photos and a cozy evening stroll.
  • Let kids join holiday craft workshops at local museums or community centers, creating ornaments, stockings, or lanterns to take home.
  • Go ice skating at the Prescott Valley Winter Spectacular or take a short trip to nearby snow play areas for sledding and snowman building.
  • Participate in a Christmas scavenger hunt downtown – find Santa hats, reindeer lights, and decorated trees throughout the plaza.
  • Enjoy family dining specials at downtown restaurants offering seasonal menus and festive decor during December weekends.
  • Shop for unique holiday gifts and local crafts at Prescott’s boutiques, antique shops, and pop-up markets throughout the season.

MORE THINGS TO DO NEAR PRESCOTT

The Blazin’ M Ranch - A Western Themed Frontier Town, Dinner, and A Show

Join us at the Blazin’ M Ranch for an evening of western activities, dinner and an unforgettable show! The Blazin’ M Ranch features an authentic Western Themed Town located in Cottonwood, Arizona. You’ll find fun family activities and the best chicken and ribs in Arizona, along with f

Join us at the Blazin’ M Ranch for an evening of western activities, dinner and an unforgettable show! The Blazin’ M Ranch features an authentic Western Themed Town located in Cottonwood, Arizona. You’ll find fun family activities and the best chicken and ribs in Arizona, along with foil-wrapped potato, cowboy beans, our prickly pear coleslaw, flying biscuits and a delicious homemade dessert.

After dinner the Blazin’ M Cowboys entertain ya’ with their award-winning musical talents mixed with cowboy poetry and humor with a 1 hour show from 7:30pm - 8:30pm!


Zane Grey RV Park (55+ park)

A Beautiful Northern Arizona RV Park and Cabin Rental resort near Sedona and the Red Rock attractions. Comfortable RV camping sites on West Clear Creek in Camp Verde, Arizona. The location is unique, with a creek-side path and lots of shade. Our friendly staff will make your stay comfortab
A Beautiful Northern Arizona RV Park and Cabin Rental resort near Sedona and the Red Rock attractions. Comfortable RV camping sites on West Clear Creek in Camp Verde, Arizona. The location is unique, with a creek-side path and lots of shade. Our friendly staff will make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. Zane Grey RV Village is open year round to meet your Arizona vacation needs in any season.Zane Grey RV Village is really quite beautiful!A premiere RV park in the Red Rock region of Arizona.

Craftsmen Gem 2BR House

Just one block from Prescott’s Historic Courthouse Square and Whiskey Row, this beautifully remodeled 1908 Craftsman home offers modern updates without losing its historic charm. Featuring restored original details alongside contemporary comforts, Emma's Manor is your perfect base!

Just one block from Prescott’s Historic Courthouse Square and Whiskey Row, this beautifully remodeled 1908 Craftsman home offers modern updates without losing its historic charm. Featuring restored original details alongside contemporary comforts, Emma's Manor is your perfect base!

  • -1 Block from Historical Prescott Square
  • - Cozy Fireplace & Elegant sitting room
  • - Spacious Living Area
  • - Stylish Coffee Bar & Fully Equipped Kitchen
  • - Modern Spa like Bathrooms
  • - Mountain Views

Prescott Resort & Conference Center

Discover the area’s only full-service resort when searching for hotels in Prescott, AZ. Resting on the “Top of the Rock” offering picturesque views of the warmth and scenery of Prescott, the Prescott Resort and Conference Center is the choice hotel for those seeking a luxurious getaway in
Discover the area’s only full-service resort when searching for hotels in Prescott, AZ. Resting on the “Top of the Rock” offering picturesque views of the warmth and scenery of Prescott, the Prescott Resort and Conference Center is the choice hotel for those seeking a luxurious getaway in Northern Arizona.
7.6
604 reviews

Lynx Lake Lux 6-BR House

The Prescott Lynx B&B is a Unique Luxury Vacation home wrapped in rustic elegance! Over 4,000 sq ft Sleeps 16 in comfy beds & pull outs for up to 21 guests. HUGE gourmet kitchen in AMAZING great room equipped for large gatherings. Split 6 bdrm 4 bth home (Master bdrm + 2 bdrms/2 bths on EA
The Prescott Lynx B&B is a Unique Luxury Vacation home wrapped in rustic elegance! Over 4,000 sq ft Sleeps 16 in comfy beds & pull outs for up to 21 guests. HUGE gourmet kitchen in AMAZING great room equipped for large gatherings. Split 6 bdrm 4 bth home (Master bdrm + 2 bdrms/2 bths on EACH WING of home w private living rooms, fireplaces, patios, full gigabit internet, workspaces. 2 acres, incredible hillside views, fenced yard, firepit, BBQ, quiet, wildlife, only 10 mins to downtown Prescott

NexAero Vacation Rentals

Northern AZ Curated Stays. Personal Touch. Trusted Management.

Welcome to NexAero Vacation Rentals
Locally Grown & Boutique Managed Since 2020

At NexAero, we believe where you stay should be just as memorable as the destination i

Northern AZ Curated Stays. Personal Touch. Trusted Management.

Welcome to NexAero Vacation Rentals
Locally Grown & Boutique Managed Since 2020

At NexAero, we believe where you stay should be just as memorable as the destination itself. What began with a single home and a deep love for Northern Arizona has grown into a boutique vacation rental company offering a curated collection of properties in Prescott and Flagstaff, AZ.

In Prescott & Flagstaff — our handpicked homes range from modern hillside chalets and forest-view cabins to charming downtown studios and cozy creekside cottages. Whether you're here for the fresh pine air, scenic trails, or one of city’s vibrant events, our stays are designed to offer comfort, character, and a personal touch.


Enjoy Panoramic Views at The Prescott Sunset Sanctuary, 2 Mi to Whiskey Row

Your home-away-from-home retreat! Known as the 'Prescott Sunset Sanctuary,' this 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home features a fully equipped kitchen, an open floor plan, expansive outdoor wrap-around deck for families and outdoorsy groups to relax with a BBQ lunch or a relaxing glass of wine at n
Your home-away-from-home retreat! Known as the 'Prescott Sunset Sanctuary,' this 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home features a fully equipped kitchen, an open floor plan, expansive outdoor wrap-around deck for families and outdoorsy groups to relax with a BBQ lunch or a relaxing glass of wine at night. When you want to be close to the downtown action, yet far enough to enjoy the peace and serenity of the Prescott National Forest, this home's central location gives your family the best of both worlds. Book now.

Rockhouse Retreat 1-BR House or Full Complex

Charming Prescott Dells Rock Haven
Escape to the charming Prescott Dells Rock Haven, the perfect getaway retreat. Nestled amid stunning rock formations, this serene haven offers easy access to Sedona, the Grand Canyon, and local treasures like Watson Lake. Explore

Charming Prescott Dells Rock Haven
Escape to the charming Prescott Dells Rock Haven, the perfect getaway retreat. Nestled amid stunning rock formations, this serene haven offers easy access to Sedona, the Grand Canyon, and local treasures like Watson Lake. Explore historical downtown Prescott or embark on scenic hikes, making this your ideal base for adventure and relaxation in a captivating setting.


Thumbe Butte 2-BR Chalet

Escape to this cozy chalet at Thumb Butte Mountain, nestled in the pines with stunning, unobstructed views. Surrounded by trails and wildlife, this peaceful retreat offers rustic charm, modern comforts, and front-row seats to Arizona’s natural beauty. Perfect for stargazing, hiking, or sim
Escape to this cozy chalet at Thumb Butte Mountain, nestled in the pines with stunning, unobstructed views. Surrounded by trails and wildlife, this peaceful retreat offers rustic charm, modern comforts, and front-row seats to Arizona’s natural beauty. Perfect for stargazing, hiking, or simply unwinding in the mountains.

Zebra Ranch & Venue

PRECOTT.COM FEATURED PICK
This property offers FOUR unique ways to stay and experience this all this place has to offer!

PRECOTT.COM FEATURED PICK
This property offers FOUR unique ways to stay and experience this all this place has to offer!

Located just 1/4 mile from the Granite Mountain Trailhead and only 20 minutes from downtown Prescott, this special retreat offers the perfect mix of ranch life and modern comfort. Come meet the animals, explore the trails, and enjoy the full gym with basketball, volleyball, and now pickleball on the property!


Prescott Ebike Rentals & Tours

Lakeside Tours by Watson Lake on The Peavine and Iron King Trail! If you are looking for something fun to do in Prescott, you have come to the right place. Let our E-bikes take you on an adventure!

Some of Our Reviews:

Lakeside Tours by Watson Lake on The Peavine and Iron King Trail! If you are looking for something fun to do in Prescott, you have come to the right place. Let our E-bikes take you on an adventure!

Some of Our Reviews:
  • The highlight of our trip
  • Bikes are in great condition
  • Great way to experience ebikes
  • Loved the entire experience

Hotel St. Michael

Western hospitality with historic ambiance, comfortable lodging and modern amenities.
9
875 reviews

Full-Day Guided Kayak Fishing Down the N. Verde River from Cottonwood

Fishing on Arizona's Verde River offers the opportunity to catch some really awesome fish, but if you don't know the best spots to go to, you may come back empty handed. This Verde River Kayak Fishing Full-Day Experience from Cottonwood takes you down river with a guide and in a kayak,

Fishing on Arizona's Verde River offers the opportunity to catch some really awesome fish, but if you don't know the best spots to go to, you may come back empty handed. This Verde River Kayak Fishing Full-Day Experience from Cottonwood takes you down river with a guide and in a kayak, so you not only get to fish in great spots, but you also get closer to the fish, too.

  • Go on a fun, full-day fishing trip down Arizona's Verde River
  • A perfect activity for avoiding crowds—you'll fish from your own kayak
  • A guide takes you down the river to private river runs, too
  • A kayak and all necessary fishing gear are provided for you

  • Hilton Garden Inn Prescott Downtown

    Located in historic downtown Prescott, our hotel is within walking distance to tons of local restaurants, unique shops, and downtown events. Stroll along the nearby hiking trails or cool off at Watson Lake, just 10 minutes away. Prescott Regional Airport is less than 10 miles away. Our hot
    Located in historic downtown Prescott, our hotel is within walking distance to tons of local restaurants, unique shops, and downtown events. Stroll along the nearby hiking trails or cool off at Watson Lake, just 10 minutes away. Prescott Regional Airport is less than 10 miles away. Our hotel features 5,400 sq. ft. of event space, an on-site restaurant, and pool.

    Montezuma Castle, Jerome and Sedona Day Tour From Scottdale or Phoenix

    Discover Arizona’s rich history and Native American heritage on this full-day tour from Scottsdale or Phoenix. Visit two National Monuments—Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot—and learn more about the Sinagua people as you admire the fascinating ruins. Afterward, explore the former mining town o
    Discover Arizona’s rich history and Native American heritage on this full-day tour from Scottsdale or Phoenix. Visit two National Monuments—Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot—and learn more about the Sinagua people as you admire the fascinating ruins. Afterward, explore the former mining town of Jerome and enjoy an included lunch in Sedona.

    PRIVATE Guided River kayaking on the Verde River Cottonwood, AZ (Private Group)

    Explore Arizona’s Verde River with a dedicated guide on this private kayak tour. Depart from a designated pickup point in a UTV and enjoy an off-road adventure on the way to the launch point. Sit atop your kayak and enjoy a guided tour through the river, taking in the landscapes along t

    Explore Arizona’s Verde River with a dedicated guide on this private kayak tour. Depart from a designated pickup point in a UTV and enjoy an off-road adventure on the way to the launch point. Sit atop your kayak and enjoy a guided tour through the river, taking in the landscapes along the way. Enjoy stops at several water holes to swim and cool off before heading back.

  • Enjoy the views of the Verde River on a kayak
  • See more than you would if you explore on your own
  • All necessary kayaking equipment is provided
  • A private tour ensures a personalized experience

  • Private Arizona Wine Tasting Tour, A Divine Vine

    We specialize in creating FUN-filled ELEVATED experiences. Our guides pride themselves in making sure you really enjoy your day. Enjoy the delicious wine or beer of Arizona without the hassle of designating a driver. Our fun local knowledgeable guide will show you around the vineyard and w
    We specialize in creating FUN-filled ELEVATED experiences. Our guides pride themselves in making sure you really enjoy your day. Enjoy the delicious wine or beer of Arizona without the hassle of designating a driver. Our fun local knowledgeable guide will show you around the vineyard and will even be your personal photographer for the day! Our tours are customized to you, so you get to set the time. All tours are PRIVATE, so once we pick you up, we are off to the vineyards! This will be one of the best tours you do in the Sedona area. Our passion is to pamper you and create a memorable day. You will visit 3 to 4 vineyards or breweries. The choice is yours. Book now to reserve your next wine/beer tasting tour.

    Hassayampa Inn

    A beautifully restored 1927 boutique hotel set in the heart of the Prescott, AZ downtown historic district. Every inch of our hotel exudes classic character and charm. From the hand-painted lobby ceiling and dramatic wall murals to the quirky vintage elevator and etched glass and embossed
    A beautifully restored 1927 boutique hotel set in the heart of the Prescott, AZ downtown historic district. Every inch of our hotel exudes classic character and charm. From the hand-painted lobby ceiling and dramatic wall murals to the quirky vintage elevator and etched glass and embossed copper panels, the Hassayampa Inn transports you back to the “roaring twenties” with its Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and Italianate features. This “living museum” is where some of history’s most noteworthy celebrities used to come to unwind, including Will Rogers, Greta Garbo, Clark Gable and Steve McQueen.
    9
    697 reviews

    ATV Rentals in Sedona and Cottonwood

    Adventurous and independent travelers who don't want to be constrained by a guided tour will love this full-day ATV rental. Starting from Sedona or Cottonwood, you'll have your own ATV to use for six hours. You'll be given a map so you know where to go and the itinerary is up to you. Dr

    Adventurous and independent travelers who don't want to be constrained by a guided tour will love this full-day ATV rental. Starting from Sedona or Cottonwood, you'll have your own ATV to use for six hours. You'll be given a map so you know where to go and the itinerary is up to you. Drive to Sycamore Canyon and Sedona Red Rocks, or stop for a hike and a picnic.

  • Fuel, goggles, and helmets will be provided
  • Decide for yourself what you want to see and do
  • Get off the beaten path in the Verde Valley
  • An exciting way to enjoy Arizona's beautiful landscapes

  • 1.5 Hour Horseback Ride

    Wilderness observation and exploration. Explore beautiful Prescott by horseback. Many trails to choose from. Rides for Riders of All Levels - 1.5 hour rides Birthdays - Proposals- Special Occasions

    Kayak Tour on the Verde River

    Immerse yourself in Arizona’s beautiful scenery—and enjoy a new way to explore—on this family-friendly kayaking tour along the Verde River. Pick between several departure times, grab your safety gear, and set off in a shuttle to the river with just a small group for company. This beginn

    Immerse yourself in Arizona’s beautiful scenery—and enjoy a new way to explore—on this family-friendly kayaking tour along the Verde River. Pick between several departure times, grab your safety gear, and set off in a shuttle to the river with just a small group for company. This beginner-friendly tour includes a relaxing paddle down a 3.1-mile (5-kilometer) stretch of this river, and the chance to take on gentle mini rapids.

  • Admire the lush scenery along the Verde River from the water’s edge
  • This small-group tour guarantees hands-on guidance and training
  • Safety gear, inflatable or hard kayaks, and shuttle transit included
  • Get out in nature and enjoy a fun and lively way to explore.

  • Grape Train Escape: Wine Tasting and Verde Canyon Railroad Adventure

    Savor the flavors of the diverse vineyards of Arizona's Verde Valley and beyond. The Verde Canyon Railroad's Grape Train Escape treats passengers to select wines from the Southwest accompanied by specialty cheeses and hors d'oeuvres while winemakers discuss earache wineries terroir and

    Savor the flavors of the diverse vineyards of Arizona's Verde Valley and beyond. The Verde Canyon Railroad's Grape Train Escape treats passengers to select wines from the Southwest accompanied by specialty cheeses and hors d'oeuvres while winemakers discuss earache wineries terroir and techniques.

  • Wine train experience: Sample the wines of Arizona's Verde Valley and beyond
  • Onboard Southwest winemakers provide insights into technique and terror
  • Includes pairings of specialty cheeses and hors d'oeuvres
  • Small-group experience (maximum nine guests).

  • General Admission to Verde Valley Archaeology Center

    The Verde Valley Archaeology Center is the only nonprofit museum that encompasses the family life of the Sinagua people, the history of the Yavapai-Apache Nation, and specialized rotating exhibits.

    Guided Horseback Tour only 30 mins from Sedona

    Go horseback riding in Arizona during this small-group tour in Cottonwood, approximately 30 minutes from Sedona. Meet your guide and set out on a tour through the Alcantara Vineyards. Cross the water where the Verde River and Oak Creek meet, and get up close to see ancient Apache ruins.

    Go horseback riding in Arizona during this small-group tour in Cottonwood, approximately 30 minutes from Sedona. Meet your guide and set out on a tour through the Alcantara Vineyards. Cross the water where the Verde River and Oak Creek meet, and get up close to see ancient Apache ruins. Admire panoramic mountain views during this scenic excursion. No prior experience is necessary.

  • Discover Arizona by horseback tour
  • Ride through scenic vineyards
  • See historic sites during the tour
  • All experience levels welcome

  • Northern Arizona Private Wine Tour south of Sedona - Verde Valley Wineries

    Tour Sedona’s Verde Valley wineries on this private wine tour in Sedona. You and your group (max 14) will be driven in a luxury limo- think Mercedes Benz Sprinter or Ford Transit- so no one needs to worry about logistics or driving. You’ll visit three vineyards, where tastings are inclu

    Tour Sedona’s Verde Valley wineries on this private wine tour in Sedona. You and your group (max 14) will be driven in a luxury limo- think Mercedes Benz Sprinter or Ford Transit- so no one needs to worry about logistics or driving. You’ll visit three vineyards, where tastings are included in the price. Lunch is also included, so you can relax and enjoy this trip with everything taken care of for you.

  • Enjoy a half day tour departing from your hotel with drop off at the end
  • Wine tasting fees are included with this price- three per person
  • Tailor the tastings to your preference
  • Enjoy lunch at Merkin Vineyards Tasting Room and Osteria

  • Prescott - Territorial Arizona's Capital City - Day Tour from Phoenix

    Our small size makes our company very flexible to accommodate your needs and requests. We can customize any tour to make it more fun and interesting to you. We love the history of Arizona and enjoy pointing out points of interest and bits of trivia. We also enjoy learning from our guests a
    Our small size makes our company very flexible to accommodate your needs and requests. We can customize any tour to make it more fun and interesting to you. We love the history of Arizona and enjoy pointing out points of interest and bits of trivia. We also enjoy learning from our guests as many are very knowledgeable themselves. Our large book collection on Arizona History helps us to stay informed on well-researched details of the past.

    2 Hours Water to Wine Kayak Trip from Cottonwood

    The perfect mix of outdoor adventure and relaxation, this tour combines a kayaking excursion with wine tasting in Arizona’s Verde Valley. Paddle down the Verde River in a kayak and stop at a vineyard for a sommelier-led tasting. Feel safe with a guide who can offer paddling and safety t

    The perfect mix of outdoor adventure and relaxation, this tour combines a kayaking excursion with wine tasting in Arizona’s Verde Valley. Paddle down the Verde River in a kayak and stop at a vineyard for a sommelier-led tasting. Feel safe with a guide who can offer paddling and safety tips, as well as sharing information on the river’s flora and fauna.

  • Combine two fun activities—kayaking and wine-tasting—on this guided tour
  • Enjoy a leisurely paddle along the Verde River—suitable for all abilities
  • Taste wines from Arizona’s premier wine-growing region: the Verde Valley
  • Receive $20 credit to spend at the winery on tastings, snacks, or gifts

  • Private Off Road Adventure Tours in the Prescott National Forest

    Come see why thousands come to Prescott, and why we loved it so much we made it our permanent home. The beauty here is hard to describe in words, and pictures have a hard time doing it justice. On a guided tour you'll see the most scenic points and views of Prescott, and the beauty of the
    Come see why thousands come to Prescott, and why we loved it so much we made it our permanent home. The beauty here is hard to describe in words, and pictures have a hard time doing it justice. On a guided tour you'll see the most scenic points and views of Prescott, and the beauty of the surrounding area. Ride in the comfort of one of our Hummers as we take off-road trails and visit sites few have the opportunity to experience. from $110.00 Lowest Price Guarantee Check Availability

    EXPLORE MORE THINGS TO DO AROUND PRESCOTT