Things to Do for the Holidays in Mesa, Arizona

Mesa’s holiday season has its own rhythm. You can hike among saguaros under blue skies, skate on real ice in Downtown Mesa and end the evening beneath thousands of Christmas lights. The desert stays unmistakably desert, even when the calendar says winter. Here are the holiday experiences to build into a winter Mesa visit Some event schedules are still being announced, so check the linked calendars before making plans.

CELEBRATE IN DOWNTOWN MESA

Skate at Merry Main Street

The Winter Wonderland Ice Rink brings real ice to the Plaza at Mesa City Center. After skating, walk over to Mesa’s Christmas tree, explore the shops along Main Street or grab dinner nearby. It’s an Arizona holiday night with one wonderfully unexpected detail: ice skates. Merry Main Street begins with its 2026 kickoff and tree lighting on November 27. Check the event calendar for rink hours and admission.

Visit Santa

Santa makes appearances during Merry Main Street, giving families an easy reason to linger downtown. Breakfast with Santa has also included a light meal, crafts and photos in past seasons. Check the 2026 calendar for dates and reservation details.

See Mesa's Menorah

Mesa’s menorah stands downtown during Hanukkah, with candles lit over the course of the holiday. Include it in a walk through Merry Main Street and check the calendar for any scheduled community celebrations.

Shop the Sunset Market

The Downtown Mesa Sunset Market brings local vendors, food and live music to Main Street and Macdonald. Its December market is scheduled for Friday, December 11, 2026, from 5 to 9 p.m. Browse for gifts, then stay for dinner at a Downtown Mesa restaurant.

See the Lights at Catch a Show

Visit Vertuccio Farms Christmas Fest

Vertuccio Farms Christmas Fest adds a distinctly Mesa setting to the season. Its most recent celebration featured light displays, farm animals and family activities. The farm plans to return in 2026, with dates and details still to be announced.

Mesa Arizona Temple at dusk, illuminated by festive holiday lights.

Walk Through the Mesa Temple Christmas Lights

The Mesa Temple Christmas Lights have been a local tradition for decades. Stroll the illuminated grounds, then visit the International Nativity Display at the visitors’ center across Main Street. Both experiences are free and open to the public.

See the Nutcracker at Mesa Arts Center

Ballet Etudes celebrates 40 years of The Nutcracker at Mesa Arts Center December 12–20, 2026. Clara’s journey, the sparkling snow scene and Tchaikovsky’s score make it a holiday classic. Downtown restaurants are just steps away for dinner before or after the show.

Christmas at Schnepf Farms sign with Santa Claus, surrounded by holiday garlands.

Add a Nearby Holiday Outing

Mesa makes a convenient home base for more seasonal events across the Valley. These experiences are outside Mesa, so give each one its own place in your plans.

Watch A Christmas Carol in Gilbert
Hale Centre Theatre presents A Christmas Carol in nearby Gilbert November 27 through December 24, 2026. Book ahead and review the theatre’s age guidance if you’re bringing young children.

Hear Holiday Music at MIM
The Musical Instrument Museum in Phoenix has seasonal concerts throughout December. Canadian Brass performs December 10, 2026, with more holiday shows on the calendar.

Explore Las Noches de las Luminarias
At Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix, Las Noches de las Luminarias fills the garden paths with glowing luminarias, light displays and live entertainment. The 2026 event takes place on select nights beginning November 27. Reserve tickets for the date you want.

Spend an Evening at Christmas at Schnepf Farms
Christmas at Schnepf Farms is a ticketed holiday outing in Queen Creek, near Mesa. Its 2026 listings include lights, Santa visits and optional train rides. Check the current ticket options before you go, since some activities have an additional cost.

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