🎄 Top Things To Do in Tucson in December: Holiday Lights, Local Events & Flavorful Adventures

December is one of the most magical times of the year in Tucson. With mild weather, festive lights, holiday markets, and unique local events, the city comes alive in a way that blends classic holiday cheer with Southwest charm. Whether you're visiting Tucson for the first time or you're a local looking to enjoy the season, here are the best things to do this December — plus how to pair them with an unforgettable Tucson Food Tour.

1. Winterhaven Festival of Lights

December 13–27 | 6pm–10pm | Free (donations encouraged)

A Tucson tradition for over 75 years, the Winterhaven Festival of Lights is one of the city’s most beloved holiday events. Stroll through streets filled with dazzling light displays, festive decorations, and creative themes — some nostalgic, some whimsical, all magical. You can walk the neighborhood or choose a trolley, hayride, or pedal bike tour.

Perfect Pairing:

Do a Tucson Food Tour in the afternoon, then head to Winterhaven after dark. It makes for a cozy, festive evening and avoids the dinner rush.

2. Downtown Tucson Parade of Lights & Festival

Early December | Downtown Tucson

The annual Parade of Lights lights up the heart of downtown with floats, marching bands, dancers, local performers, and thousands of spectators. This family-friendly event also includes a festival with food vendors, kids’ activities, and live music.

Why It's a Must-Do:

Downtown Tucson shines during the holidays — with murals, historic buildings, and local shops decorated for the season. It’s the perfect way to kick off December.

Even Better With a Food Tour:

Start your day with our Downtown Tucson Food Tour or Mural & History Tour, then stay for the parade. You’ll already know the stories behind the murals, landmarks, and streets you're walking through.

3. ZooLights at Reid Park Zoo

Late November – January | Nightly

ZooLights transforms Reid Park Zoo into a glowing world of light sculptures, lanterns, holiday scenes, and sweet treats. Sip hot cocoa, walk through illuminated animal displays, and enjoy holiday music.

Why Tucson Loves It:

It’s relaxing, family-friendly, and offers tons of photo opportunities under the desert night sky.

4. Holiday Markets & Local Shopping

December is packed with artisan markets featuring local makers and unique, Southwestern-inspired gifts. Some favorites:

• Fourth Avenue Winter Street Fair

• Made in Tucson Market

• La Encantada’s Holiday Nights

• St. Philip’s Plaza Weekend Market

Insider Tip:

Many of these markets are near our tour routes — making it easy to turn your food tour into a full day of shopping + exploring.

5. Take a Tucson Food Tour (the #1 Thing to Do!)

With comfortable weather and holiday visitors in town, December is one of the best months to enjoy a Tucson Food Tour.

Why Our Tours Are a Perfect December Activity:

• Generous portions (come hungry!)

• 5-star guides who share Tucson’s stories, culture & hidden gems

• Locally owned since 2012

• Featured in “100 Things To Do in Tucson Before You Die”

• Great for families, couples, and holiday guests

• A fantastic post-turkey, pre-New Year activity

Choose from:

• Downtown Tucson Tour

• 4th Avenue/Main Gate Tour

• Mural & History Tour

• Progressive Dinner Tour

Bonus Holiday Idea:

Our gift certificates make an incredible last-minute present for anyone who loves food, travel, or local experiences.

6. Holiday Shows & Performances

December brings a wide range of seasonal performances around Tucson:

• Ballet Tucson’s “The Nutcracker”

• Arizona Theatre Company holiday productions

• Gaslight Theatre’s Christmas show

• TSO holiday concerts

Pair a matinee with a food tour, or use our Downtown route as your pre-show dinner — way more fun than standard dining reservations.

7. Desert Nights, Holiday Lights at Tohono Chul

This botanical garden glows with thousands of lights wrapped around saguaros, mesquite trees, and desert pathways. Enjoy live music, hot drinks, and peaceful desert beauty all lit up for the season.

Why It’s Special:

It’s a Tucson-only experience — Christmas lights in the desert.

Why December Is the Perfect Time to Visit Tucson

• Clear blue skies & mild temps

• Ideal walking weather

• Tons of events packed into the month

• Holiday energy without freezing temperatures

• Festive décor from downtown to foothills neighborhoods

December is “peak Tucson” — and one of the best times to explore the city through food, culture, and community events.

Make Your December Unforgettable with Tucson Food Tours

Whether you’re hosting out-of-town guests, planning a date day, or just want a fun thing to do this holiday season, a Tucson Food Tour is one of the most delicious, local, and memorable experiences you can enjoy in the city.

👉 Book your December tour today! www.TucsonFoodTours.com

👉 Gift cards also available for holiday giving.