Fun things to do with the whole family over Thanksgiving weekend
Nov 27, 2014, 3:00 PM | Updated: Jan 1, 2015, 8:56 am
When you are finished digesting the copious amounts of turkey, stuffing and pumpkin pie from Thanksgiving dinner, there’s a whole lot of fun to be had the rest of the weekend.
As the holiday season gets underway, there is so much to do around the Valley. From ice skating to light shows to plays, there is something to match everyone’s tastes. Get out any enjoy your Thanksgiving weekend!
If you are looking for something to do, here are a few events that are fun for the whole family:
Arizona International Auto Show
If cars are your thing, the Phoenix Convention Center is the place to be this weekend. The annual event gives car experts and novices alike the chance to gaze upon the newest 2015 models and more. Hope you like that new car smell. Times: Thursday-Sunday — 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. (open Friday and Saturday until 9 p.m.)
Holiday Ice Skating
Time to lace up those skates and hit the ice for a spin at Desert Ridge Marketplace. Everything is free, including skates! Outdoor ice skating in Arizona — always a fun event. Times: Friday-Sunday — 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Let it Snow!
Snow? In the desert? That’s exactly what is going on every night between Friday and Christmas Eve at Tempe Marketplace and Desert Ridge Marketplace. Flakes of white snow will fall from the sky then disappear without a trace. The best part is not having to shovel it out of your driveway. Times: Friday-Christmas Eve — 7 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Disney’s Beauty and the Beast
Who doesn’t love the classic play Beauty and the Beast? Take the whole family out to Orpheum Theatre and enjoy the classic tale in new and unique way. Times: Friday – 7:30 p.m., Saturday – 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Sunday – 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Holiday Tree Lighting
Kick off the holiday season at the 2nd Annual CityScape Holiday Tree Lighting. In addition to the lighting of the tree and the introduction of Santa Claus, the NRG Ice Rink will make its grand opening. There will be holiday music, entertainment and refreshments, and the event is free ($10 for rink admission and skate rental). Time: Saturday – 4 p.m.
Fantasy of Lights Street Parade
The streets of the Mill Avenue District will light up for the celebration of “Star Light, Star Bright.” The event begins with the Opening Night Parade, culminating in the arrival of Santa Claus. Time: Saturday – 6 p.m.
The Polar Express
The Phoenix Symphony is a great place to take the family on Sunday afternoon. The Phoenix Symphony, Phoenix Girls Chorus and a special guest will narrate the holiday classic, The Polar Express and will lead a holiday carol sing-a-long. Those who arrive early can participate in the Instrument Petting Zoo and other activities. Time: Sunday – 2:30 p.m.
Trans-Siberian Orchestra
If you haven’t had the pleasure of attending a Trans-Siberian Orchestra concert, do yourself a favor and head on over to Gila River Arena in Glendale on Sunday. Holiday music, a light show and pyro effects are just a few of the staples of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra — a very fun twist on the traditional holiday-themed concert. Times: Sunday – 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.