December 2025 - Tucson, Arizona
Desert Luminaries: Ring in the Holidays with Tucson’s Brightest Traditions!
December in Tucson is pure magic. While the rest of the country is bundling up, the Old Pueblo offers clear, crisp evenings perfect for experiencing stunning light displays, festive markets, and holiday concerts. The city shines brightest this month, and our cozy vacation rentals are the ideal home base for your December desert getaway!
1. Winterhaven Festival of Lights (December 13–27, 2025)
For over 70 years, the residents of the historic Winterhaven neighborhood have put on a spectacular holiday show that is completely free to the public. The entire neighborhood lights up with elaborate, jaw-dropping decorations, becoming a true Winter Wonderland in the desert. The festival focuses on being a walk-through experience and often encourages attendees to bring a non-perishable food or cash donation for the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona.
Details & Schedule: Winterhaven Festival of Lights
2. Holiday Arts & Performance Schedule
December is the season for the arts in Tucson! Check the schedules for these local holiday favorites:
• Tucson Symphony Orchestra (TSO): They typically host their annual "Holidays in Tucson" concert, often featuring collaborations with local favorites like Calexico and UA Dance, blending holiday cheer with Southern Arizona flavor.
• The Nutcracker: Look for several beautiful performances by local companies like Ballet Tucson at the Linda Ronstadt Music Hall, offering the classic, dazzling holiday experience.
• Downtown Parade of Lights: The Downtown Parade of Lights often kicks off the festive season, featuring illuminated floats, musical groups, and community organizations celebrating the start of the holidays.
3. Oro Valley Festival of the Arts & Holiday Tree Lighting (December 6-7, 2025)
Just a short drive north, this is one of the region's largest holiday shopping events. Held at the Oro Valley Marketplace, the two-day festival features over 150 local artisans, live holiday performances (including TUBACHRISTMAS!), and culminates with the lighting of the official 35-foot holiday tree and a Santa parade. It's the perfect place to find unique, handcrafted gifts.
Event Info: Oro Valley Festival of the Arts & Holiday Tree Lighting
4. New Year’s Eve in the Old Pueblo (December 31, 2025)
Ring in 2026 with a choice of fun Tucson events:
• It's Midnight Somewhere! The Tucson Botanical Gardens typically hosts an early New Year's Eve celebration perfect for families, with a countdown at an early hour (often 9 PM).
• Downtown Bar Crawl: For an adult evening, several downtown bars host organized New Year's Eve bar crawls, offering special deals and a lively way to hop between venues as you count down to midnight.
Your Desert Home for the Holidays
Make your December vacation in Tucson truly special by choosing one of our well-appointed rentals as your holiday sanctuary.
• Ventana Getaway: Treat yourself to a tranquil, high-end stay near the beautiful Catalina Foothills. This location offers quick access to upscale dining, nature hikes, and stunning views—perfect for a peaceful holiday retreat.
• Hidden Desert Gem: Enjoy the convenience of a comfortable, centrally located home. You'll be just minutes from the downtown festivals, the holiday shopping districts, and easily positioned to visit the Winterhaven lights!
The warmth of the desert awaits! Book your Tucson holiday stay at www.vacaystaylee.com before the calendar fills up.