I realize that maybe we've not even put away the Halloween decorations yet, but tickets for unique Christmas events sell fast, especially on weekends, so let’s flash forward to December!
Step into the spirit of the Christmas season aboard Verde Canyon Railroad’s The Magical Christmas Journey — where holiday dreams come to life! This event starts November 28 and runs on select dates through Christmas Eve.
Your adventure begins at the festively decorated depot, sparkling with lights and Christmas cheer. You can explore the Bird’s-Eye Village and then climb aboard for a cozy train ride on Santa's secret tracks bound for The North Pole. The train passes through a glowing tunnel of lights, rolls by Canyon critters guiding the way, and arrives at the dazzling North Pole, where guests are greeted by Santa, Mrs. Claus and elves. The train stops, as you take in the sights of The North Pole, like the Reindeer Flight School, Ugly Sweater Factory, the Naughty Kids’ Coal Mine and more.
Passengers stay on the train, and Santa hops on board to ride back to the depot, visiting with every child, offering them a gift to remember their adventure.
From twinkling lights to hot cocoa and warm memories, this is more than a train ride — it’s a Christmas tradition you’ll treasure forever.
For Info: https://verdecanyonrr.com/magical-christmas-journey/
Here’s some additional information that might help you plan accordingly. The train depot is in Clarkdale which, with kids and the probable need to stop along the way, is a 2 hour drive from the West Valley. Be sure to arrive early so you can take full advantage of the festivities at the depot before the train ride begins. Their regular train ride is very wonderfully done with the customer experience in mind so, although I have not taken the Magical Christmas Journey, I bet it’s pretty special. Weekend time slots are already showing limited availability for tickets. If you have very specific dates in mind, don’t delay in getting tickets!
Another Christmas tradition to consider is the Nutcracker Ballet put on by Ballet Arizona and performed in downtown Phoenix at Symphony Hall. If you wanted to see the Nutcracker but missed their Christmas in July promo, it’s OK! They have just announced a 15% discount for tickets. Lots of fine print though so read carefully:
- Discount code is DEWDROP and is good through Nov. 23
- Valid for these performances only: 12/23 at 2 pm and 7:30 pm, 12/26 at 2 pm and 7:30 pm, and 12/27 at 2 pm
- NOT valid on Savers or Premium seats
- Promo code must be entered before checkout
- All sales are final
They also have a Magic VIP Package you might want to check out. Some of their performances have sold out already so, act sooner rather than later!
And if you really just want to know what’s going on this weekend, here locally, be sure to check out our Events Calendar here.
