This holiday season, Prescott, known as Arizona’s Christmas City, is preparing to dazzle with a festive lineup that promises something special for everyone. 
Prescott has long been cherished as a holiday destination, but this year, it has earned national recognition, being named one of the “Top 10 Best Christmas Towns” by Newsweek.
To kick off the season, the 27th Annual Holiday Light Parade and Bonfire Festival takes place at 6 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 30, along Cortez Street. Led by Santa himself, this enchanting parade will feature more than 40 illuminated floats and performances by local school bands. Afterward, festivities continue from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Mile High Middle School with a bonfire, music and reindeer games for children, giving families a chance to fully embrace the holiday season.
Next, on Saturday, Dec. 7, Prescott will host two of its most anticipated events: the 42nd Annual Christmas Parade and the 70th Annual Courthouse Lighting. This year’s parade theme, Heroes of the Holiday, celebrates those who make the season brighter in our community. From 1-3 p.m., downtown Prescott will come alive with the sights and sounds of festive floats, marching bands and holiday tunes, with the Grand Marshal and the Friends of the Jersey Lilly leading the way. Following the parade, children can meet Santa at the Courthouse Plaza until 5 p.m. At 6 p.m., the Courthouse and more than 80 surrounding trees will light up in a stunning display, accompanied by live music starting at 5 p.m. and capped with a breathtaking fireworks show. This year, a free shuttle service from Prescott High School to Granite Street will make parking more accessible for all.
The holiday spirit continues on Friday, Dec. 13, with the 36th Annual Acker Night, featuring the Opening Ceremony at 5 p.m. on Gurley Street. Attendees can wander through the downtown area, soaking up the lights and enjoying live performances by more than 500 musicians at various local businesses. Proceeds collected during Acker Night go toward providing music lessons, instruments and support for local school music programs. A free shuttle from Frontier Village Shopping Center makes attending this beloved community event easier than ever.
On Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 14-15, the Christmas Village and Christkindl Market will return to West Goodwin Street in downtown Prescott, bringing the magic of a European Christmas market to Arizona for its third year. With more than 20 vendors offering unique holiday gifts and delicious German-style food, the event also features a Beer & Mulled Wine presented by JARD LLC. This year, attendees can enjoy a new outdoor ice skating rink, adding even more seasonal fun for families and friends. It’s a perfect time to get in the mood for the Christmas season. Whether you’re looking for last-minute gifts or just want to soak in the holiday spirit, this festive market has something for everyone.
Closing out Prescott’s holiday celebrations is the 14th Annual New Year’s Eve Boot Drop on historic Whiskey Row. Starting at 7 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 31, attendees will enjoy live music, fireworks, food trucks, carnival games and giveaways. The event’s centerpiece is the six-foot illuminated cowboy boot, which descends twice – once at 10 p.m. and again at midnight. “The Boot Drop is a favorite event on Whiskey Row and we’re proud to close out the festive season in Prescott,” said event organizer Matt Brassard.
Presented by Desert Financial Credit Union, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona, Friends of the Jersey Lilly and the City of Prescott, Arizona Christmas City events bring community, visitors and holiday magic together for a season to remember. QCBN
By Sheri Heiney
For more details, visit www.ArizonaChristmasCity.com.
Sheri Heiney is president of the Prescott Chamber of Commerce.
Leave a Reply