PRESCOTT, ARIZONA | HOLIDAY EVENTS SCHEDULE 2026

Celebrate the Magic of the Holidays in Prescott: November & December 2026 Events From festive parades and dazzling Christmas lights to holiday markets, live music, and the iconic New Year’s Eve Boot Drop, Arizona’s Christmas City is preparing for another unforgettable holiday season.

As the crisp mountain air settles over Prescott and the historic downtown streets begin to sparkle with holiday lights, the community transforms into one of Arizona’s most enchanting destinations for the season. Known as Arizona’s Christmas City, Prescott welcomes residents and visitors to celebrate the holidays with cherished traditions, family-friendly festivities, and memorable community gatherings throughout November and December.

Whether you're planning a weekend getaway, welcoming family for the holidays, or looking for festive activities close to home, Prescott and the surrounding communities offer something special for everyone.

November 2026: Honoring Tradition and Welcoming the Holidays

November 11, 2026 – Veterans Day Parade

The holiday season begins with an opportunity to honor the brave men and women who have served our country. Prescott's annual Veterans Day Parade takes place Wednesday, November 11, in historic downtown Prescott.

Opening ceremonies begin at 10:30 a.m., followed by the parade at 11:00 a.m. The procession features veterans, military organizations, community groups, and patriotic displays around the Yavapai County Courthouse Plaza. This year's theme, "Remember the Past. Serve the Present. Inspire the Future," celebrates the enduring legacy of America's veterans.

November 17-21, 2026 – Festival of Trees

Festival of Trees Nov 17-21, 2026 | Prescott 2026 Festival of Trees Prescott returns with five days of beautifully decorated Christmas trees and wreaths, holiday vendors, live entertainment, visits with Santa, children’s crafts and family-friendly activities.

November 28, 2026 – 29th Annual Holiday Light Parade & Bonfire

One of Prescott's most beloved holiday traditions returns Saturday, November 28, as downtown comes alive with illuminated floats, twinkling decorations, and festive music.

The 29th Annual Holiday Light Parade begins at 6:00 p.m., bringing holiday cheer to the streets of downtown Prescott. Following the parade, families can gather for the community bonfire at Mile High Middle School's football field beginning at 7:00 p.m. This free, family-friendly celebration is a wonderful way to kick off the Christmas season.

November 28, 2026 – January 1, 2027 – Gingerbread Village

The annual Gingerbread Village at the Prescott Resort & Conference Center returns with a whimsical display of handcrafted gingerbread creations. Families can admire imaginative gingerbread houses, elaborate holiday scenes, and creative designs that capture the magic of Christmas. The display has become a favorite seasonal tradition for visitors of all ages.

Location: Prescott Resort & Conference Center

Dates: November 28, 2026 – January 1, 2027

November 28 – December 30, 2026 – Valley of Lights

Just minutes from Prescott, the Town of Prescott Valley welcomes visitors to its annual Valley of Lights celebration at Fain Park. This drive-through holiday attraction features colorful illuminated displays, festive scenes, and thousands of sparkling lights. Families can enjoy the experience from the comfort of their vehicles. Admission is donation-based, with contributions accepted per vehicle. Location: Fain Park, Prescott Valley Dates: November 28 – December 30, 2026

December 2026: Christmas in Arizona's Christmas City

December 5 – 44th Annual Christmas Parade

Downtown Prescott will be filled with holiday excitement on Saturday, December 5, as the 44th Annual Christmas Parade begins at 1:00 p.m.

The parade features festive floats, marching groups, local organizations, and plenty of Christmas spirit. Families are encouraged to arrive early, find a spot along the parade route, and enjoy one of Prescott's longest-standing holiday traditions.

December 5, 2026 – 72nd Annual Prescott Courthouse Lighting & Fireworks

The magic continues Saturday evening with Prescott's signature holiday celebration, the 72nd Annual Courthouse Lighting Ceremony. Beginning at 5:00 p.m., visitors can enjoy Christmas music and a festive atmosphere surrounding the historic Yavapai County Courthouse. At 6:00 p.m., the Courthouse and more than 80 surrounding trees will illuminate downtown Prescott in a breathtaking display of holiday lights, accompanied by fireworks.

For generations, the Courthouse Lighting has brought families, friends, and visitors together to celebrate the season. It's a tradition that helped earn Prescott its official designation as Arizona's Christmas City in 1989. A complimentary shuttle service from Yavapai College will be available for visitors.

December 11, 2026 – 38th Annual Acker Night Musical Showcase

Music fills the streets of downtown Prescott on Friday, December 11, during the 38th Annual Acker Night Musical Showcase. The evening begins with an opening ceremony at 5:00 p.m., followed by musical performances from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Local musicians and performers entertain visitors inside downtown shops, restaurants, galleries, and businesses, creating a festive evening of music and community spirit.

The event is free to attend, with donations supporting music education opportunities for local students. Learn more at Acker Night.

Throughout the Season – Christmas Village & Christkindl Market

Prescott's holiday shopping experience extends beyond traditional storefronts with seasonal markets, artisan vendors, and festive shopping opportunities. The annual Christmas Village and Christkindl-style market celebrations bring European-inspired holiday charm to the community, featuring handcrafted gifts, seasonal treats, and opportunities to support local businesses. 2026 dates and event details are still to be confirmed. Sty tuned!

December 31, 2026 – Whiskey Row New Year's Eve Boot Drop

Prescott's New Years Eve Boot Drop

Prescott closes the year with one of Arizona's most distinctive New Year's Eve traditions: the 16th Annual Whiskey Row New Year's Eve Boot Drop, created and co-founded by Donna Werking

On Thursday, December 31, downtown Prescott transforms into a festive celebration as residents and visitors gather on historic Whiskey Row to welcome 2027. The event features live entertainment, a lively downtown atmosphere, and the signature lowering of a giant illuminated cowboy boot, reflecting Prescott's Western heritage.

Festivities begin at 7:00 p.m., with the celebration continuing through midnight and into the new year.

The Boot Drop has become a treasured Prescott tradition since its debut in 2011, bringing the community together to celebrate the end of one year and the beginning of another.

More Holiday Experiences to Enjoy

Beyond the major holiday celebrations, visitors can explore downtown Prescott's locally owned boutiques, restaurants, galleries, and historic attractions. Additional seasonal events include the Festival of Trees November 19–21, Wild Lights at Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary beginning November 27, and Frontier Christmas at Sharlot Hall Museum on December 5.

Whether it's sipping hot cocoa beneath the illuminated Courthouse trees, discovering the perfect handmade gift, enjoying live holiday music, or sharing a special evening with family, Prescott offers countless ways to create lasting holiday memories.

Make Prescott Your Holiday Destination

With its historic downtown, Western charm, picturesque mountain setting, and generations of beloved holiday traditions, Prescott continues to live up to its reputation as Arizona's Christmas City. From the patriotic celebrations of November to the excitement of ringing in the new year on Whiskey Row, November and December offer some of the most magical experiences of the year. Plan your holiday adventures, invite your family and friends, and experience the magic of Christmas in Prescott, Arizona!

For more information on upcoming holiday celebrations, community happenings, and local events throughout Prescott and Yavapai County, visit www.PrescottAZ365.com.

Event schedules are subject to change. Confirm details with organizers before attending.