December 2018 Arizona Events

December 2018 Arizona event calendar

MIM MUSIC THEATER With outstanding acoustics and an up-close-and-personal experience, the MIM Music Theater is the Valley’s premier concert venue. For tickets call 480.478.6000. For a complete schedule of concerts and events, visit MIM.org.

Musical Instrument Museum, Phoenix, AZ

MIM Music Theater 300-seat concert venue CONCERTS:

The Steve Gadd Band Thursday, December 13 at 7:00 & 9:00 p.m. Friday, December 14 at 7:00 & 9:00 p.m. Tickets: $28.50–$43.50 Steve Gadd is one of the most sought-after studio musicians in the world. Regarded as one the most influential drummers in contemporary music, Gadd can play anything, easily bridging different musical styles.

Steve Gadd performing at MIM Music Theater

Jim Brickman Saturday, December 29 at 3:00 & 7:00 p.m. Sunday, December 30 at 3:00 & 7:00 p.m. Monday, December 31 at 7:00 p.m. Tickets: $48.50–$68.50 Jim Brickman has transformed the popularity of solo piano playing and has become the most charted Adult Contemporary artist in history.

Jim Brickman performing at MIM Music Theater

ALL MONTH Zoolights (PHOENIX) One of the Valley’s most anticipated holiday traditions at the Phoenix Zoo. 5:30-10:30pm nightly guests can see millions of lights and a 200 ft. polar slide, live reindeer, Stingray Bay and 4D Theater with Zoolights ticket starting at $9.95 for value dates. http://www.phoenixzoo.org/

ALL MONTH Untamed: Wild Compositions by Frank Gonzales at Desert Botanical Garden (PHOENIX) This compelling exhibition explores pollinators and Sonoran Desert elements, playfully arranged in dynamic compositions. Known widely for his vivid avian subjects, Gonzales is a classically trained painter with a fresh, contemporary perspective. Desert Botanical Garden, 480-941-1225, dbg.org

ALL MONTH BODIES REVEALED Traveling Exhibition (SCOTTSDALE) Fascinating and Real. Come celebrate the wonder of the human form! BODIES REVEALED is a must-see during its limited time at OdySea in the Desert. Over 200 actual human bodies are meticulously and respectfully displayed, offering an unprecedented look into your amazing body. 480-291-8000.

ALL MONTH Illumination Festival of Lights (PHOENIX) Illumination is the country’s largest animated holiday drive-thru light show. This 1-mile driving attraction features millions of lights synchronized to holiday music. $29 per vehicle. 6-10pm weekdays and 6-11pm weekends/holidays. 602-567-3618 or www. worldofillumination.com

TUESDAY - SUNDAY Canvas of Clay: Hopi Pottery Masterworks from The Allan and Judith Cooke Collection (SCOTTSDALE) More than 65 ceramics from one of the finest private collections of Hopi pottery, on exhibit for the first time. Spanning 6 centuries, this exhibition explores the history and stylistic traditions of the Hopi, who have excelled in the creation of ceramics for generations. Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West, 480-686-9539. (See ad on page 9 and mention KEYNov18 for a 20% discount.)

WEDNESDAYS Wine Tasting Cruises (FOUNTAIN HILLS) Enjoy a wine tasting and live music cruising on the Desert Belle! Call 480-984-2425 and mention “KEY” for special savings! (See Ad Page 47)

THURSDAYS The Arizona Blues Project (CAVE CREEK) Enjoy Blues, R&B, Classic Rock, Funk & Soul every Thursday at Harold’s Corral, 8pm-11pm, 480-488-1906.

John Coleman: Bronze and Beyond at Dessert Caballeros Western Museum

December 1 -- 31st Annual Festival of Lights (GLOBE) This year’s festival at Besh Ba Gowah Archaeological Park and Museum features 2800 glowing luminaries atop ancient ruin walls lighting the way for visitors to celebrate the magic of the season. Performances by the famed Yellow Bird Dance Group as well as other cultural entertainment. 5-9pm. FREE Admission. Parking is limited but a FREE shuttle service is available from designated shuttle parking at the Historic Train Depot (230 S. Broad St., Globe). 928-425-0320.

THURSDAYS Art Walk (SCOTTSDALE) Wander into galleries while strolling around tree-covered courtyards, famed restaurants & more. Downtown Scottsdale, 7pm–9pm, 800-782-1117.

Fridays and Saturdays through December 16 25th Annual Glendale Glitters Spectacular (GLENDALE) The stunning display of 1.6 million LED lights will illuminate sixteen blocks of Historic Downtown Glendale, making it the largest FREE holiday light display in Arizona. From 5–11pm each Friday and Saturdayevening. 623-930-2299.

Rock N' Roll McDonald's Car Show at Talking Stick Pavillions

EVERY SATURDAY Rock ‘N’ Roll McDonald’s Car Show (SCOTTSDALE) Complete with 50’s era music, this showcase of anywhere from 250–500 cars, and up to 150 motorcycles and choppers, is sure to satisfy collectors, dreamers, and aficionados, alike. The Pavilions at Talking Stick, 4pm-8pm, 480-362-2700.

December 1 -- 60th Annual Tumbleweed Tree Lighting Ceremony and Parade of Lights (CHANDLER) The community is invited to celebrate the holidays in Chandler with the return of the City’s annual Tumbleweed Tree Lighting & Parade of Lights. Behold the iconic Tumbleweed Tree, visit with the jolly man himself, and enjoy musical performances. This FREE holiday spectacular event kicks off at 4:30pm when thousands fill historic downtown to partake in festive crafts, amusement rides, live entertainment and a glowing pageantry of lights followed by the lighting ceremony. 4:30-9 p.m. 480-782-2735, www. chandleraz.gov/ tumbleweedtree

December 1 Scottsdazzle Feliz Navidad Fiesta (SCOTTSDALE) This new event for 2018 is FREE and will feature poinsettias for sale, unique piñatas, tamale tasting / sales as well as live entertainment (mariachis, Las Posadas, ballet folklorico and an hourly piñata bash), kids activities and more. 12pm - 5pm, www.scottsdazzle.com/

December 1 -- 32nd Annual APS Electric Light Parade: Magic of the Holidays 2018 (PHOENIX) The APS Electric Light Parade has long been an event where brings people together to spread the joy of the holidays for 100,000+ spectators. The parade begins on Central Ave. & Montebello and ends at 7th St. and Indian School. All entries have electric lights, from floats, to marching bands, performance groups, car groups and families. FREE. 7pm. 602-262-6437 or www. phoenix.gov/parks/elp

December 1 & 15 Downtown Mesa Festival of the Arts (MESA) Held first and third Saturdays from 2-8pm, this FREE event features unique artistic creations, music, food and fun for the whole family. Featuring the work of established and emerging artists: woodworking, metal crafts, food, jewelry, photography, handmade soaps, and more. www.dtmesafest.com.

December 1 & 2 -- Holiday Pops (PHOENIX) It’s the most wonderful time of year as the beloved tradition, Holiday Pops, returns to Symphony Hall. Join The Phoenix Symphony and The Phoenix Symphony Chorus and experience seasonal favorites and a popular Holiday Sing-Along! phoenixsymphony.org.

December 7 Cirque Holiday Spectacular (PHOENIX) Back by popular demand, Troupe Vertigo returns to The Phoenix Symphony with an all-new holiday show. This year, the LA cirque troupe brings their gravity-defying acts to the Valley with a special dose of holiday cheer. Hear holiday favorites like “White Christmas” and “Deck the Halls” and beloved movements from masterpieces like Swan Lake while hula hoops, strong men, contortionists, aerialists and jugglers perform on stage… and 40 feet above it! 2pm & 7:30pm on both days. phoenixsymphony.org/

December 8 -- 20th Annual Tempe Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade (TEMPE) Everyone loves a parade, right? A parade that floats…even better! Take part in holiday cheer by gathering on the shores of Tempe Town Lake to watch a procession of festively decorated boats of all shapes and sizes. Every year on the Saturday following the Tempe Festival of the Arts weekend, Santa Claus arrives in Tempe Beach Park by way of boat along with other festive floats. Make Downtown Tempe your Home for the Holidays this season! www.downtowntempe.com/

December 6 - 23 A Christmas Carol at Tempe Center for the Arts (TEMPE) Music by Broadway’s Alan Menken and lyrics by Lynn Ahrens. Co-presented with resident artist Scottsdale Musical Theater Company. This spectacular Broadway musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’ novel, A Christmas Carol, is filled with lively song and dance, stunning sets and costumes, it will leave you and yours wrapped in the joy of the season. www. tempecenterforthearts.com

December 8 Scottsdazzle Sugar Plum Avenue (GLENDALE) 5th Avenue is transformed into Sugar Plum Avenue — a fairytale village with sugar plum fairies, princesses, a Snow King and Snow Queen, aerial performances, carriage rides, candy land bounce houses, Nutcracker performances each hour and a brand new tea party in the street. 3pm-7pm. scottsdazzle.com.

December 8 & 9 -- 42nd Annual Pueblo Grande Indian Market (PHOENIX) Enjoy a weekend full of American Indian art, music, dance, storytelling, and food! Gates open at 9am. Event goes until 4pm both days. Tickets: $10 and include Museum admission. Children 12 and under are FREE with paying adult. Hoop dancing, storytelling, artist demos, and more. Visit pueblogrande.org/indian-market

December 9 Salt River Brass: Holiday Pops! (MESA) In the Mesa Arts Center’s beautiful Ikeda Theater, led by Music Director Patrick Sheridan. Concerts start at 3pm. 480-644-6500

Boyce Thompson Arboretum

December 16 Guided Tree Walks of the Arboretum (SUPERIOR) An arboretum is a living collection of trees — learn about the trees of Boyce Thompson Arboretum on this month’s narrated walk. A relaxed, slow-paced afternoon tour featuring staffer Jeff Payne, plus tips from this skilled pro on tree care and horticulture. Walk begins at 1:30pm. Event included with regular admission. 602-827-3000

Comedian Mike Vecchione at House of Comedy

DECEMBER 19-23 MIKE VECCHIONE BUY TICKETS ONLINE AT houseofcomedy.net 480.420.3553 • 5350 E. HIGH STREET

December 26 -- 30th Annual Cheez-It Bowl (PHOENIX) Chase Field. Featuring Pac-12 team vs. Big 12 conference team, football. $10-50. Gates open at 6:30pm. 480-350-0911 or fiestabowl.org

December 29 -- 48th Annual National Bank of Arizona Fiesta Bowl Parade (PHOENIX) Floats, bands, specialty & equestrian units; bleacher seating $25. 10am. www.fiestabowl.org

December 31 New Year’s Eve Celebration and Gala (PHOENIX) End the year on a high note with The Phoenix Symphony for one of the most popular New Year’s Eve Celebrations in AZ. Enjoy Strauss waltzes, seasonal classics and Broadway / contemporary faves all with a complimentary glass of Champagne! Begins at 7pm. phoenixsymphony.org

Sedona, Prescott & N Central AZ

Tiger Splash Show at Out of Africa Wildlife Park

ALL MONTH Out of Africa Wildlife Park (CAMP VERDE) Experience a completely different view of wildlife where exotic animals from around the world roam in spacious habitats. And with exciting shows like Tiger Splash and Predator Feed, Out of Africa is like nothing you’ve ever seen. Open daily, 928-567-2840 (See Page 63 for coupon)

ALL MONTH Live Music at REDs (SEDONA) Acclaimed for its lively and comfortable atmosphere, REDS restaurant at the Sedona Rouge features live evening entertainment daily, 6-9pm, 928-282-5321.

MONDAYS Monday Football Madness (CAMP VERDE) Are you ready for some football? Watch the game on a 12 foot HDTV screen, enjoy a stadium style buffet, featuring home-teamthemed items along with tailgate favorites. Win Castle Cash and prizes. Cliff Castle Casino Hotel, $15, 800-381-SLOT.

ALL MONTH Pink Jeep Tours (SEDONA) For the most popular offroad tour into Sedona’s magnificent outback, be sure to book the Broken Arrow Tour. History buffs can explore the mystery and capture history on the Ancient Ruin Tour. For See-Forever Vistas, climb aboard the Scenic Rim Tour! Experience thrilling drops on the Diamond Gulch Tour. Call 833-314-7465 to book an amazing dventure!

TUESDAY - SATURDAY Live Entertainment at Timbers Lounge (PINETOP) Hon-Dah Resort Casino and Conference Center features 800 of the newest slots & poker room and 128 oversized hotel rooms. Enjoy FREE live entertainment Tuesday - Saturday at Timbers Lounge, call 1-800-WAY-UP-HI (800-929-8744).

WEDNESDAYS Wineaux Wednesday (SEDONA) Sedona’s Best Sunsets & Wine Tasting with a dozen wines to taste. Different wine experts each week answer questions about the wine selections, Happy Hour Tapas menu and live entertainment starts at 6pm. soundbitesgrill.com

Yavapai County Courthouse in Prescott, Arizona

December 1 -- 64th Annual Courthouse Ligthing and Ceremony (PRESCOTT) In Arizona’s official Christmas City, this FREE event will once again light up the courthouse plaze with fun and festivities. 1pm parade, 6pm lighting, Frontier Christmas Open House at Sharlot Hall Museum, Christmas Indian Art Market at Smoki Museum, Jingle Bell 5K run. This must-see event is one of Prescott’s most beloved and time-honored traditions! 928-445-2000 or 800-266-7534 or www.visitprescott.com or www.prescottdowntown.com

WEEKENDS through December 23 Canyon Christmas Train (CLARKDALE) Climb aboard for a Magical Journey to the North Pole on the Verde Canyon Railroad. This 1-hour round-trip Christmas adventure is an abbreviated version of the train’s standard 4-hour excursion, making it a perfect Christmas trip for even the tiniest tot. Departing every Saturday and Sunday, at 5:30pm and 7:00pm. Prior to boarding, families will be able to tour a miniature village featuring 10 tiny houses on a town square with a flight path for children, wearing provided wings. This unique “flight” is inspired by Verde Canyon Railroad’s relationship with Liberty Wildlife of Arizona. An educational bald eagle that visits Verde Canyon Railroad regularly will be at the depot to greet the children. First Class, all ages: $45. 800-293-7245.

December 1 -- 25th Annual Chocolate Lovers’ Walk (COTTONWOOD) The merriment begins with the 63rd Annual Cottonwood Christmas Parade, set to begin at 11am. After the parade, get a bite to eat or do a little Christmas shopping at the wide variety of unique shops, restaurants, tasting rooms and more! Collect a variety of homemade OR gourmet chocolates! Hot cocoa will be offered at multiple stops along the way. Enjoy the Old Town Light Show accompanied by holiday music, beginning at 5:30 pm. Make it an overnight trip and stay the night at one of Old Town Cottonwood’s lovely boutique hotels. $20 tickets will be available at 3pm. 928-649- 3038.

December 7 -- Sedona’s Holiday Tree Lighting and Santa’s Visit (SEDONA) Enjoy traditional tree-lighting, refreshments, local holiday entertainment and Santa visits with children. This free event takes place at Tlaquepaque North and is presented by Sedona Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Bureau. FREE Admission. visit www.tlaq.com or contact visitorinfo@tlaq.com

December 7 & 8 -- 10th Annual Candlelight Tours (CAMP VERDE) At Fort Verde State Historic Park. Enjoy the celebration of a Victorian Christmas with these traditional candlelight tours. Reenactors dressed in period clothing provide guided tours with hot chocolate and light refreshments. FREE on Saturday evening. 5-8:30pm. 928-567-3275 or /azstateparks.com

December 9 Prescott Pops: Jingle All the Way (PRESCOTT) What is the holiday season without a musical extravaganza performed by the Prescott Pops Symphony and Chorus? Revel in the melodies and magic, fun and fantasy, the splendid and sublime in Christmas music. Join the Pops musicians, chorus and special guest soloists as they bring you holiday joy and pleasure! Adults: $25, Youth (18 & Under): $5 (928) 776-2000. www.PrescottPOPS.com

December 13 - 16 Sedona Northern Lights (SEDONA) Celebrate the season in Sedona, and witness the country’s largest 3D holiday light show in The Most Beautiful Place on Earth. For 4 days only, don’t miss this once in a lifetime chance to see this innovative and spectacular light event. Viewing areas throughout Uptown Sedona and Gallery Row. Times: 6pm, 7pm, 8pm and 9pm (shows at the top of each hour) The Show will be projected on the natural canvas of Camelhead Rock (next to Snoopy Rock). Tune to KAZM 780AM on a radio for music to accompany the light show! Music will be heard at identified viewing areas. (928) 282- 7722. www.sedonanorthernlights.com

Sedona's Northern Lights 3d Holiday Light Show

December 22 Holiday Sweet Stroll (SEDONA) Tlaquepaque Art and Shopping Village hosts this FREE annual event. The arts village is cheerfully bedecked in decorative lights and window dressings reminiscent of A Christmas Carol. Santa will be greeting the little ones and carolers dressed in finery from Dickens’ era sing traditional songs acappella as they meander through the courtyards. The Grinch will be lurking. Retailers will have their shops open and filled with unique gifts, sweet treats, special give-a-ways, and discounted offers. FREE Trolley Service from Up Town Municipal Parking Lot. www.tlaq. com or928-282-4838.

Williams, Flagstaff & Northern Az

ALL MONTH Queen Mine Tour (BISBEE) Explore one of the most productive copper mines of the 20th century. Don hats & mining lanterns, and ride the mine train deep underground, search for veins of copper, gold and turquoise, and experience the life of a miner. Reservations 520- 432-2071. queenminetour.com

FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS Meet an Astronomer at Lowell Observatory (FLAGSTAFF) Meet a Lowell astronomer Friday & Saturday evenings 7:30-10pm* and take a peek at real-time images of planets, stars, galaxies & other celestial objects displayed on a large TV screen with the new MallinCam, 928-774- 3358. *Subject to astronomer availability.

WEEKENDS ALL MONTH The Polar Express (WILLIAMS) Every winter the Grand Canyon Railway’s Polar Express train comes to life on a journey from the nighttime wilderness of Williams, AZ, to the enchanted beauty of “the North Pole”— where Santa Claus and his reindeer are waiting with a keepsake present for every good boy and girl. Weekends and select evenings 5:30 and 7:30pm starting November 9th. Grand Canyon Railway, 800- 843-8724, thetrain.com

Wild Wonderland at Bearizona

Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays through December 30 Wild Wonderland (WILLIAMS) The fun begins on November 30th at Bearizona’s winter family favorite: Wild Wonderland! After normal hours visitors enjoy Fort Bearizona walk through portion of the park (the drive through portion is closed). There’s a festive light show every half hour, Mrs. Claus hosts Storytime at 6pm & 7pm with photo opps. Bearizona’s program animals come to the Gift Shop 5:30pm–7:30pm, and guests stay warm by the outdoor fire pit with s’mores for sale. Admission is separate from General Park Admission. Don’t forget to dress extra cozy for all the outdoor fun! Call 928- 635-2289 or visit bearizona.com. See pg. 84.

Tucson & Southern Arizona

ALL MONTH Old Bisbee Ghost Tour (BISBEE) Only one of its kind: Your Ghost Host leads you on a walking tour through Old Bisbee’s streets, stairways and alleys after dark. Learn about ghosts that haunt this 135 year old town. Family friendly tour at 5:30pm! Adults $15, Kids (under 12) $13, and dogs FREE! www. oldbisbeeghosttour.com.

ALL MONTH Biosphere 2 Tours (ORACLE) Experience Biosphere 2 for yourself! Time Life Books named it “One of the 50 must-see wonders of the world!” Beneath 6,500 panes of glass lives a rainforest, coastal fog desert, milliongallon ocean and much more, 520-838-6200 or visit Biosphere2.org.

ALL MONTH Butterfly Magic (TUCSON) Magic returns to Butterfly & Orchid Pavilion! A fully immersive experience surrounding you with rare butterflies, tropical plants and orchids in bloom. Tucson Botanical Gardens, 520-326- 9686, tucsonbotanical.org

December 2 The Presidio District Experience: A Progressive Food Heritage and History Tour (TUCSON) Spearheaded by the Presidio San Agustín del Tucson Museum, the Presidio District is resuming its food tour to celebrate Tucson’s UNESCO City of Gastronomy designation. On Dec. 2, beginning at the Presidio Museum, participants learn about Tucson’s origins and the food fusions that occurred when the Spanish and Tohono O’Odham were first learning from each other. In addition to tastings of Old and New World foods, participants enjoy Three Wells Distillery’s Silver and Copper spirits made from prickly pear fruits. The cost of the tour is $75/person and $65/ person for Presidio Museum members. Pre-registration is required at www. TucsonPresidio.com.

December 7 -- 47th Annual Fourth Avenue Fall Street Fair (TUCSON) 400+ arts & craft booths, food, entertainers & musicians from around the US, 2 stages & street performers, art area for kids, it’s a cross between a fine art show & a carnival. FREE. 10am - 6pm. 520-624-5004 or www.fourthavenue.org

December 7 - 9 Ballet Tucson’s The Nutcracker (TUCSON) Kick start the festive season with Ballet Tucson’s beloved, award-winning holiday classic. Experience Clara’s magical journey with giant soldiers, swirling snowflakes, and dancing sweets with the whole family. Multiple performance times, at Tucson Music Hall $30 – $58. 800.745.3000.

Through December 9 -- 31st Annual Luminaria nights (TUCSON) 2,500+ candlelit luminarias and 20+ Korean lanterns adorn the Tucson Botanical Gardens creating something magical. Nightly performances, musicians and dancers, food and drinks in flavors of the season from Cafe Botanica as well as Tucson’s favorite Food Trucks! 5:30-8:30pm, $9-$18. 520-326-9686.

December 31 Rick Braun’s New Year’s Eve Jazz Getaway (TUCSON) At JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa. New York theme featuring world-renowned trumpet player Rick Braun along with top-caliber jazz musician headliners for a two-day event featuring seven hours of live contemporary jazz. $214. Doors open at 6:45pm. rickbraunnewyearseve.com 520-219-3381.