Enchanting Holiday Lights Transform the Valley into a Winter Wonderland

The holiday season in the Valley brings a dazzling array of light displays and festive activities, transforming various locations into enchanting landscapes of twinkling lights and holiday cheer. Residents and visitors alike have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the festive spirit by exploring numerous holiday-themed attractions across the region.

One notable residential display is by John Nelson of Queen Creek, who adorns his home at 23467 S. 223rd Court with approximately 70,000 lights, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. His setup includes 13,000 lights forming a twinkling curtain along the side of the house and 25,000 lights on trees and bushes, synchronized to music. Occasionally, visitors might also spot the Grinch distributing candy canes. Nelson encourages the public to visit and enjoy the display, and has even shared a video of it on TikTok.

For those concerned about the cost of such grand displays, SRP spokesperson Jennifer Schuricht explains that while extravagant lighting can increase electric bills, the impact is minimal, especially with energy-efficient LED lights.

Beyond residential displays, the Valley offers a wide array of commercial and municipal holiday experiences:

• Vertuccio Farms in Mesa hosts "Lights at the Farm," boasting 10 acres of lights synchronized to Christmas music. The farm features a synthetic ice-skating rink and is located at 4011 S. Power Road, running the event through December 23.

• Schnepf Farms in Queen Creek provides Christmas-themed activities, including an Illumination Express Train, showcasing light displays around the farm. Located at 24810 S. Rittenhouse Road, the event continues through December 24.

• The Phoenix Zoo's ZooLights is a long-standing tradition, featuring over 4 million lights, wildlife lanterns, and a 50-foot floating tree. This event is held at 455 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, until January 14.

• Glendale Glitters celebrates its 30th anniversary with a light display in Downtown Glendale near 59th and Glendale avenues, running through January 1.

• Desert Botanical Garden presents Las Noches de las Luminarias, a tranquil experience with luminaria-lit trails, at 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, until December 30.

• Fairmont Scottsdale Princess's "Christmas at The Princess" offers a winter wonderland at 7575 E. Princess Drive, including an ice-skating rink and Princess Express trains, running through January 6.

• Enchant Christmas at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, 7555 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale, features an ice skating rink and a claimed world's largest Christmas light maze, open through December 31.

• Old Town Scottsdale's Scottsdazzle Holiday Extravaganza includes free events and a stunning Christmas tree at the Scottsdale Waterfront, continuing through December 31.

• World of Illumination presents two drive-thru light shows: "Reindeer Road" in Glendale and "Cosmic Sleighride" in Tempe, both available through December 31.

These holiday light experiences offer a variety of festive activities for all ages, making the Valley a vibrant destination for celebrating the holiday season.

Experience the Magic of the Holidays at Vertuccio Farms' Light Extravaganza

In December, Vertuccio Farms in Mesa becomes a hub of holiday festivities with its "Lights at the Farm" event, now in its sixth year. Located at 4011 S. Power Road, the 10-acre farm transforms into a vibrant holiday destination, illuminated by five million synchronized lights, set to the tunes of classic seasonal songs.

Cono Vertuccio, the Chief Farming Officer, emphasizes that the event is more than just a light show; it's an experience filled with magic and memories for visitors of all ages. The farm features Santa Claus, who will be available from December 15-23 for family photos, letter sharing, and participating in holiday crafts. Additional attractions include a petting zoo, s'mores, skating on a 4,000-square-foot synthetic NHL-grade ice-like surface, hot cocoa, and other farm-style fun activities.

The light display is accompanied by a concert-level audio system with 85 speakers, creating a fully immersive holiday atmosphere. The farm offers a range of activities, including a dazzling light tunnel, giant ornaments, a display themed around the 12 Days of Christmas, and various other festive decorations.

Beyond the lights, visitors can enjoy numerous activities such as a holiday craft barn, a patriotic salute to America and Nativity displays, a giant tire climb, petting zoo, ping pong, miniature golf, cornhole, giant Jenga, pony rides, and fire pits. For those seeking treats and warm beverages, over 75 vendors at the Candy Cane Lane and Sweet shops will cater to all cravings.

"Lights at the Farm" is more than an entertainment venue; it aligns with Vertuccio Farms' mission to offer a family-friendly, educational, and fun experience. It draws approximately 75,000 visitors annually, contributing significantly to the farm's role in the Mesa and Central Arizona community. The event fosters a connection with farming, animals, and the natural world, while also providing a relaxing and entertaining environment.

As noted by Vertuccio, the farm during this event turns into a winter wonderland, offering an abundance of fun and holiday spirit.

Lights on the Farm

Where: 4011 S. Power Road, Mesa.

When: Through Dec. 30. Closed Dec. 11,12, 24 and 25.

Times: 5:30-9:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 5:30-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday.

Tickets: $15-18 per person, 2 years of age and under are free.

Parking: Free.

Info: vertucciofarms.com/events/lights-at-the-farm

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