Your Guide to the Holiday Season in Downtown Tucson
Categories Family Friendly Downtown Community Things to Do
Holiday Events & Activities | November–December 2026
The holiday season is lighting up Downtown Tucson! From festive lights and holiday markets to live performances, family-friendly activities and the annual Parade of Lights, there's plenty to see and do downtown this November and December.
Whether you're shopping for unique local gifts, looking for ways to celebrate with family and friends or simply enjoying the sights and sounds of the season, Downtown Tucson has something for everyone. Here's your guide to holiday events and activities happening downtown in 2026.
We'll continue updating this guide as more events are announced!
Kick Off the Holiday Season
Downtown Tucson Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony
Friday, November 20 | 5:45–6:30pm
Jácome Plaza
Kick off the holiday season at Jácome Plaza as downtown's 36-foot holiday tree lights up for the season! Join Mayor Regina Romero and presenting sponsor Casino Del Sol, Vahi Taaʼam for a festive evening featuring live music from Mariachi Herradura, holiday photo opportunities, and complimentary Mexican hot chocolate from Talega Cafe and holiday cookies while supplies last.
This free community celebration marks the beginning of a season of holiday lights and festivities throughout Downtown Tucson. The holiday tree and decorations will remain on display throughout the season.
Friendsgiving Fall Market & Open House at Stillwell House
Saturday, Nov 21, 2026 | 9am - 12pm
The Stillwell House & Garden
Get an early start on holiday shopping at the historic Stillwell House & Garden! Browse goods from local makers, bakers and artisans while exploring the charming and historic downtown venue.
Downtown Small Business Saturday
Saturday, November 28
Participating Downtown Tucson Businesses
Shop small and support local this holiday season! Celebrate Small Business Saturday by exploring Downtown Tucson's unique businesses. Find unique gifts, discover new favorites and take advantage of special offers from participating downtown businesses.
Event Details & Special Offers
December Holiday Celebrations
Frontier Holidays at the Tucson Presidio Museum
Saturday, December 5 | 10am–2pm
Presidio San Agustín del Tucson Museum
Experience holiday traditions and local history at the Presidio Museum! This year's celebration includes a special performance of Las Posadas by students from Carrillo K–5 Magnet School, marking the school's 90th anniversary of this beloved tradition. Included with regular museum admission; free for members.
32nd Annual Downtown Parade of Lights & Festival
Saturday, December 5 | Festival at 3pm, Parade at 6:30pm
Jácome Plaza & El Presidio Neighborhood
One of Tucson's favorite holiday traditions returns for an afternoon and evening of festive fun! The Downtown Parade of Lights & Festival kicks off at 3pm at Jácome Plaza with live music, food trucks, local vendors and activities for the whole family.
Enjoy photos with Santa and the Grinch, a snow machine, letters to Santa, kids' activities, holiday photo opportunities and a holiday tree lot. Then, at 6:30pm, watch the streets of downtown light up as the annual Parade of Lights makes its way through the El Presidio neighborhood with illuminated floats, decorated vehicles and plenty of holiday cheer.
The festival and parade are FREE and open to the community.
Chanukah @ Downtown Tucson
Sunday, December 6 | 5–6pm
El Presidio Park
Celebrate Chanukah at the 43rd annual lighting of Tucson's tallest menorah! Enjoy the grand menorah lighting, traditional songs, holiday treats, crafts and personal menorahs to take home. This community celebration is free and open to the public.
Cocoa & Cookies Holiday Market & Open House
Saturday, December 12 | 9am–12pm
Stillwell House & Garden
Head to Stillwell House & Garden for a festive holiday market and open house! Browse offerings from local makers and artisans, explore the historic venue and enjoy a morning of seasonal shopping in Downtown Tucson.
Holiday Card Making Workshop at the Presidio Museum
Sunday, December 13 | 1–3pm
Presidio San Agustín del Tucson Museum
Get creative this holiday season at the Presidio Museum! Spend the afternoon making handmade holiday cards in a seasonal artist-led workshop.
Christmas at the Cathedral
Wednesday, December 16 | 6:30–8pm
St. Augustine Cathedral
Enjoy an evening of traditional Advent and Christmas music inside the beautiful St. Augustine Cathedral. Featuring performances by the Tucson Girls Chorus and Tucson Arizona Boys Chorus, this seasonal concert also invites the audience to participate in three holiday sing-along songs.
Enjoy the Holiday Lights Downtown
You don't need a special event to enjoy the holiday spirit in Downtown Tucson! Throughout the season, Desert Nights Downtown Lights brings festive decorations and illuminated trees to downtown streets, along with the 36-foot holiday tree at Jácome Plaza (starting Nov 20).
Take an evening stroll, explore the decorated streets, grab dinner at a local restaurant or stop for a few holiday photos along the way.
Plan your holiday downtown visit
More Holiday Fun in Downtown Tucson
There's even more happening downtown throughout the holiday season! From live music and theater performances to shopping, dining and seasonal activities, there are plenty of ways to make the most of the holidays.
Browse the Downtown Tucson Events Calendar for more upcoming events and check back as new holiday celebrations are added.