Prescott, Arizona, is a beautiful destination to visit during the holidays. The city offers a range of festive events and activities that can help get you into the holiday spirit. Prescott travel guide Whether you're traveling solo, with family, or with friends, there is something for everyone to enjoy. And with Arizona Shuttle, getting around the city is easy and convenient. Prescott travel guide Phoenix to Prescott shuttle
In this guide, we'll look at Prescott's best holiday events and activities.
The Courthouse Lighting
The Courthouse Lighting is one of Prescott's most popular holiday events. It takes place on the historic courthouse square and features over one million lights, making it one of the largest light displays in Arizona. The event includes a Christmas parade, live music, and a visit from Santa Claus. With Arizona Shuttle, you can quickly get to the courthouse square and back to your hotel or lodging. holiday transportation options
Gingerbread Village
The Gingerbread Village is a charming holiday tradition in Prescott. Local businesses and organizations create gingerbread houses and other festive displays that are put on exhibit for the public to enjoy. Prescott event details The Gingerbread Village is located at the Prescott Resort and Conference Center, and Arizona Shuttle can take you there. Prescott event details
Acker Night
Acker Night is a unique holiday event in Prescott that takes place on the first Friday in December. It's a community-wide celebration that features music, food, and fun. Local musicians and performers are set up in various shops and restaurants throughout the downtown area, and visitors can hop from location to location to enjoy the festivities. With Arizona Shuttle, you can quickly get around the downtown area and explore what Acker Night offers.
Christmas Parade
The Prescott Christmas Parade is a beloved holiday tradition that has been going strong for over 35 years. It features a variety of floats, marching bands, and other holiday-themed displays. The parade takes place on the first Saturday in December, and it's a great way to get into the holiday spirit. With Arizona Shuttle, you can get to the parade route and back to your hotel or lodging.
Heritage Park Zoo
The Heritage Park Zoo is an excellent destination for families during the holidays. The zoo has a special holiday event with light displays, live music, and holiday-themed animal enrichment activities. With Arizona Shuttle, you can quickly get to the zoo and back to your hotel or lodging.
No matter what your interests are, Prescott has something to offer during the holiday season. With Arizona Shuttle, you can get around the city quickly and conveniently. Don't miss out on these beautiful holiday events and activities in Prescott. Book your shuttle service with Arizona Shuttle today!
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the Courthouse Lighting event start?
The Courthouse Lighting includes a Christmas parade, but specific times are not mentioned in the post.
Can I visit Gingerbread Village on any day of the holiday season?
Gingerbread Village is located at the Prescott Resort and Conference Center, but the exact dates it's open during the holiday season are not specified in the post.
How long does Acker Night last?
Acker Night takes place on the first Friday in December, but the duration of the event is not detailed in the post.
Is there a specific route for the Christmas Parade in Prescott?
The Christmas Parade takes place on the first Saturday in December, but the exact parade route is not specified in the post.
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Holiday Markets & Shopping
Winter Jazz & Wine Walk
Holiday Home Tour
Sharlot Hall Museum’s Victorian Holiday Teas
Christmas Tree Lighting at Prescott Resort
New Year’s Eve Celebration
Day Trip: Jerome & Verde Valley
Family‑Friendly Activities
Seasonal Dining
Prescott Holiday Events at a Glance
| Event | Typical Date | Location | Highlights | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prescott Holiday Market | Late Nov – Mid Dec (weekends) | North side of Courthouse Square | Hand‑crafted gifts, live music | Free admission (optional vendor fees) |
| Winter Jazz & Wine Walk | Second Saturday of Dec | Downtown tasting rooms & galleries | Wine tastings, live performances | Sample passes typically ~ $15–$25 (estimated) |
| Holiday Home Tour | Early Dec (Sat–Sun) | Various historic homes near Whiskey Row | Victorian décor, docent insights | Tickets ~ $20–$30 per person (estimated) |
| Sharlot Hall Museum Holiday Teas | Select afternoons in Dec | Sharlot Hall Museum, Gurley St | Tea service, historic house tour | Tea fee ~ $10–$15 (estimated) |
| Prescott Resort Christmas Tree Lighting | Early Dec | Prescott Resort, SR‑69 | Carolers, Santa, hot cocoa | Free (shuttle optional) |
| New Year’s Eve Fireworks | Dec 31 | Downtown Prescott (Granite Mountain view) | Live music, midnight fireworks | Free (shuttle service available) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Prescott “Arizona’s Christmas City”?
In 1989, Prescott was officially designated “Arizona’s Christmas City” in recognition of its long‑standing holiday traditions, including the Courthouse Lighting and community events that draw visitors each winter. The nickname is celebrated on signage throughout the city and highlights Prescott’s festive spirit.
Are the holiday markets free to attend?
Most holiday markets, such as the Prescott Holiday Market on the Courthouse Square, charge no admission. You may choose to purchase items from vendors, but there is no entry fee.
Can I rely on public shuttles to get around during holiday events?
Yes. Arizona Shuttle offers scheduled routes that stop near major venues like the Courthouse Square, Prescott Resort, and downtown parking lots. During peak times, additional trips are added to accommodate crowds, making it convenient to attend multiple events without a car.
What should I wear for outdoor holiday activities in Prescott?
Prescott winters are cool, with daytime highs averaging in the mid‑40s°F (7–9°C) and colder evenings. Dress in layers—a warm coat, hat, gloves, and sturdy walking shoes—plus bring a light jacket for indoor venues.
Is there a good place to stay that’s within walking distance of the holiday events?
Historic hotels such as Hotel Vendome (built 1917) and Hassayampa Inn (restored 1927) are centrally located on Whiskey Row, putting you steps away from the Courthouse Square and many of the seasonal festivities.
Are there kid‑friendly activities besides the holiday markets?
Yes. The Prescott Public Library’s “Storytime with Santa,” the holiday crafts at Sharlot Hall Museum, and the e‑bike rides around Watson Lake are all suitable for families with children.
What are the best day‑trip options from Prescott during the holidays?
A drive to Jerome (about 30 miles via U.S. Route 89 and SR 89A) offers historic shopping and art galleries. For outdoor enthusiasts, a winter kayak tour on the Verde River with Clarkdale Kayak Co. provides a unique perspective of the valley’s winter scenery.
How can I find the exact dates for each event?
The Prescott Convention & Visitors Bureau website (prescott.com) publishes an up‑to‑date calendar of holiday events. Local newspapers such as the Prescott Journal Miner also list seasonal schedules. Checking these resources close to your travel date ensures you have the latest information.
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