Pros of visiting Phoenix in December:
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Lower hotel rates: December is considered the off-season for tourism in Phoenix, so you can often find great deals on hotel rooms.
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Fewer crowds: The city is less crowded in December, which means you’ll have more space to enjoy the attractions and activities.
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Holiday events: Phoenix hosts a variety of holiday events in December, including parades, concerts, and festivals.
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Mild weather: The weather in Phoenix is mild in December, with average high temperatures in the upper 60s and average low temperatures in the mid-40s.
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Outdoor activities: Despite the cooler weather, there are still plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in Phoenix in December, such as hiking, biking, and golfing.
Cons of visiting Phoenix in December:
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Cold weather: While the weather is mild by most standards, it can be cold for some people, especially at night.
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Less sunshine: December is the cloudiest month of the year in Phoenix, so you may not get as much sunshine as you would during other months.
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Air pollution: Phoenix is known for its air pollution, which can be worse in the winter months due to temperature inversions.
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Holiday crowds: While the city is less crowded overall in December, there can be large crowds at popular attractions and events during the holiday season.
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Increased traffic: The holiday season can also lead to increased traffic congestion in Phoenix.
Weather In Phoenix During December
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Things To Do In Phoenix In December
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Lights of the World at the Desert Botanical Garden: Throughout December, the Desert Botanical Garden transforms into a winter wonderland with over a million sparkling lights illuminating the desert landscape. Enjoy the holiday displays, live music, and festive activities like marshmallow roasting and storytelling.
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ZooLights at the Phoenix Zoo: The Phoenix Zoo hosts ZooLights, an annual holiday light display featuring over 2 million twinkling lights, festive decorations, and themed areas. Visitors can enjoy live music, interactive exhibits, and up-close animal encounters.
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The Enchanted Christmas at the Heard Museum: Celebrate the season at the Heard Museum’s Enchanted Christmas, which showcases traditional Native American holiday arts and crafts, festive decorations, and live performances. Visitors can participate in cultural activities, storytelling, and hands-on art workshops.
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Scottsdale’s Annual Christmas Festival: Held in Old Town Scottsdale, this festive event features holiday lights, festive decor, local vendors, live music, and a variety of entertainment. Visitors can enjoy holiday shopping, savor seasonal treats, and participate in fun activities.
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Gingerbread City at the Arizona Biltmore Resort: The Arizona Biltmore Resort presents its annual Gingerbread City, a whimsical display of gingerbread houses created by local chefs and artists. Visitors can admire the intricate designs and have a gingerbread-making experience.
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Holiday Jam at the Mesa Arts Center: The Mesa Arts Center hosts its annual Holiday Jam, a family-friendly event featuring live music, dance performances, art activities, and festive holiday displays. Visitors can enjoy a variety of entertainment and celebrate the season with the community.
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Tempe Festival of the Arts Holiday Marketplace: The Tempe Festival of the Arts Holiday Marketplace is a popular event held in downtown Tempe. Featuring over 300 local and national artists, this festive marketplace offers a unique shopping experience with handcrafted gifts, fine art, and holiday decorations.
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Holiday Concerts and Performances: Throughout December, various venues and organizations in Phoenix host holiday concerts, performances, and shows. From classical music concerts to Broadway-style productions, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy live entertainment and celebrate the spirit of the season.
Tourism In Phoenix, United States During December
Tourism in Phoenix, Arizona during December offers a vibrant and lively atmosphere, showcasing the city’s rich culture, entertainment, and outdoor activities. Here’s an overview of what tourism is like in Phoenix during this festive month:
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Holiday Celebrations:
- Phoenix transforms into a winter wonderland during December, with festive decorations adorning the streets, shopping malls, and public spaces.
- The city hosts numerous holiday events and festivals, including Christmas parades, tree lighting ceremonies, and holiday markets.
- Popular attractions like Desert Botanical Garden and the Heard Museum offer special holiday-themed exhibits and events.
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Outdoor Activities:
- Phoenix enjoys pleasant weather in December, making it an ideal time to explore the city’s outdoor attractions.
- Hiking trails in the nearby mountains, such as Camelback Mountain and Piestewa Peak, provide scenic views and opportunities for outdoor recreation.
- The city’s many parks, including Papago Park and South Mountain Park, offer ample space for picnics, biking, and leisurely walks.
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Arts and Culture:
- Phoenix’s arts and culture scene thrives during December, with various performances and exhibitions taking place across the city.
- The Phoenix Art Museum, Heard Museum, and Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art showcase diverse collections and special exhibits.
- Live music venues, theaters, and comedy clubs offer a range of entertainment options, catering to different tastes and preferences.
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Shopping:
- Phoenix offers excellent shopping opportunities, with major malls like Scottsdale Fashion Square and upscale shopping districts like Biltmore Fashion Park.
- Local boutiques and art galleries in neighborhoods like Old Town Scottsdale and Roosevelt Row provide unique and locally made items.
- Holiday shopping events and promotions add to the festive atmosphere, attracting shoppers from near and far.
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Culinary Delights:
- Phoenix’s culinary scene shines during December, with restaurants offering special holiday menus and festive dishes.
- From traditional Christmas dinners to innovative seasonal creations, there are options to satisfy every palate.
- Food tours and culinary events showcase the city’s diverse cuisine, highlighting local ingredients and flavors.
With its mild weather, festive atmosphere, and array of attractions, Phoenix offers an enjoyable and memorable tourism experience during the month of December.