The holiday season is here and while it’s truly the most wonderful time of the year, it can also be one of the busiest and most stressful. Between shopping, planning, decorating, and keeping up with family traditions, it’s easy to lose sight of the joy this season brings. That’s why I wanted to round up my Holiday Favorites – everything from cozy decor finds to fun activities and thoughtful gift ideas that make this time of year feel extra magical instead of overwhelming.

At the end of the day, the holidays aren’t about the perfect decor or the biggest gifts. They are about connection, laughter, and creating memories that last. So, take a deep breath, grab a cup of cocoa, and enjoy this season at your own pace.

Here’s to a holiday filled with joy, coziness, and little moments that make you smile.

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DECOR

Here is a link to my favorite holiday decor. I rounded it all up in one place for you. Follow along as I update my LTK with more holiday decor, sales, and inspo. Shop my LTK here -> ashhalvorson

Holiday Gift Guides

Gift Guides (click on the guide below for the link):

• For Her
• For Him
• For Bestie
• For Co-Worker
• For Travelers
• For new Parents
• For Kiddos (Girls)
• For Kiddos (Boys)

Scottsdale (& surrounding areas) Activities/Events

Scottsdazzle – Scottsdale, AZ
Kick off the season at Scottsdale’s annual holiday celebration, Scottsdazzle! Starting November 29th with the Jingle & Jazz Tree Lighting Spectacular, this event lights up the Scottsdale Waterfront with live swing music, dancing, shopping, and the lighting of a stunning 36-foot Christmas tree. Throughout December, enjoy festive markets, visits from Santa, and local pop-ups, the perfect way to shop small and support local businesses!

Meet Santa at the Market
Every Saturday from November 29th through December 20th, Old Town Scottsdale’s Farmers Market transforms into a holiday wonderland. Stop by to shop local goods, grab fresh treats, and snap a photo with Santa (pets welcome too!).

Christmas at the Princess – Fairmont Scottsdale Princess
One of Arizona’s most iconic holiday experiences, Christmas at the Princess runs from November 3rd through January 3rd. Expect millions of twinkling lights, a Desert Ice Rink, a Princess Express Train ride, festive food, and photos with Santa. Don’t miss the Chateau Champagne for an adult evening under the lights or cozy VIP fire pits for s’mores with family. We have a season pass for this because the kids LOVE it!

Jingle at the JW – Phoenix, AZ
From November 21st – January 3rd, the JW Mariott Desert Ridge hosts their seasonal holiday event called the ‘Jingle at the JW’. You will be amazed by all the family-friendly activities – ice skating, snow tubing, pictures with Santa, virtual snowboarding/skiing and so much more. The hotel will be turned into a magic wonderland for you and your family! Don’t forget to bring your swimsuit because you can enjoy floating down the lazy river and look at their light display. The event is open to hotel guests and the public, so get your tickets now!

Glistening Gardens – Scottsdale, AZ
This holiday, step into the enchanting ‘Glistening Gardens’ at Butterfly Wonderland. This seasonal escape transports guests to the rainforest as they leisurely stroll with family and friends through an all-new illuminated holiday display inside the Conservatory. Lights line the garden paths in this cozy, lush indoor setting. Fluttering butterflies take center stage, surrounded by sparkling, festive decorations. The glistening Butterfly Conservatory is sure to ignite the holiday spirit in everyone. It’s the perfect holiday experience for all! Join the fun from November 28th – January 4th!

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park Lights
From November 28th to December 30th, this beloved Scottsdale park transforms into a glittering holiday destination. Ride the Paradise & Pacific Railroad through dazzling light displays and keep an eye out for The Grinch making a special appearance! We go to this a few times during the holidays because the kids love the lights and they get to see Santa, and sometimes the Grinch!

Phoenix ZooLights
The Phoenix Zoo comes alive from November 26th to January 16th with over four million lights, glowing animal lanterns, and an enormous floating Christmas tree. This is a must-see family experience, complete with cocoa, s’mores, and festive music under the desert sky.

Pratt Brothers Christmas – Chandler, AZ
Starting November 28th through December 28th – what started as a family tradition is now one of the state’s biggest holiday attractions. The Pratt Brothers Christmas at Rawhide Western Town brings millions of lights, live shows, and interactive fun to life. Join in the mystery, ride the Holiday Express, meet Santa, or take in the fireworks and parade. This one truly captures the joy of the season.

Fargo, ND Activities/Events

Holiday Lights at the Fairgrounds – Fargo, ND
Drive through a glowing winter wonderland from November 28th to December 31st at the Red River Valley Fairgrounds. This long-loved light display is the perfect cozy family outing. Pack some cocoa and turn on your favorite Christmas playlist! We do this every year when we are back in Fargo for Christmas!

Christkindlmarkt – Fargo, ND
Folkways’ Christkindlmarkt brings a touch of European charm to downtown Fargo across two weekends (Nov. 21–23 & Nov. 28–30). Browse handmade gifts, sip festive drinks in the Bier Hall, and enjoy live music and kids’ crafts.

Buffalo River Festival of Lights – Moorhead, MN
Starting November 28th – 30th (and every weekend in December) head to Buffalo River State Park to experience the Holiday magic at a state park! Walk through the displays and lights along the river. You can even elevate your time by going on horse drawn sleigh rides (must call for reservations in advance). Santa Clause is even there every weekend from 6-8pm. This event has free parking, hot cocoa and s’mores available.

Santa Village – Fargo, ND
Welcome to Santa Village, where holiday magic comes to life . Step into Santa Village at Rheault Farm, where lights twinkle, laughter fills the air, and holiday memories are made. Visit Santa and Mrs. Claus in their cozy cottage, meet Santa’s reindeer, and explore a festive world of crafts, cookies, and holiday cheer. While you’re here, help spread the spirit of the season by bringing canned food, toys, or donations for families in need. After all, Santa’s favorite gift is giving back. Don’t forget your camera for photos with Santa, his reindeer, and all the Christmas magic. Bundle up and get ready for an unforgettable holiday adventure at Santa Village! Santa’s Village starts November 29th and will be every weekend in December!

Santa’s Snowfari
Step into a world of winter magic at the Red River Zoo’s Santa’s Snowfari! Santa will be visiting from 11a-2p Saturday December 6th and December 13th. Bring your family and friends for a cozy, festive celebration full of fun activities, warm treats, and our amazing animals. Here is what you will experience at this event: Santa Claus, writing to letters to Santa, sledding, animal encounters, watch the animals open gifts, craft making and SO much more!

Light Up The Night Tree Lighting – Fargo, ND
Head to POW/MIA Plaza on December 4th for Fargo’s official tree lighting ceremony. There’s free hot chocolate, holiday crafts for the kids, and plenty of small-town charm.

Old-Fashioned Christmas on the Prairie – Bonanzaville
Step back in time on December 6th at Bonanzaville. With sleigh rides, Santa photos, crafts, and a cozy craft market, it’s a nostalgic way to celebrate the season.

Holiday Lights Parade – Downtown Fargo
Don’t miss Fargo’s iconic Holiday Lights Parade on December 6th, a local favorite featuring floats, music, and twinkling lights through downtown streets. Don’t forget to stop by my kids boutique while you are there 😉

Santa Flies In – Fargo Air Museum
For something truly unique, watch Santa arrive by helicopter at the Fargo Air Museum! Happening December 13th, this event includes photos, crafts, and plenty of Christmas cheer.

Canadian Pacific Holiday Train
The famous CP Holiday Train makes stops near the Fargo area mid-December, in Detroit Lakes, Hankinson, and Enderlin. Each stop features live music, Santa visits, and glowing train cars decked out in lights.

Keep checking back to this list as I will update it with more fun Holiday events as they are announced!