Artistic rendering – Event may differ
Oro Valley Holiday Festival of the Arts & Tree Lighting Celebration
Oro Valley's 'Golden Glow' tree lighting with snow show.
About
Experience the magic of the Oro Valley Holiday Festival of the Arts & Tree Lighting Celebration. This cherished event transforms the Oro Valley Marketplace into a festive hub with over 130 artisans showcasing unique handmade gifts, live entertainment on two stages, and a dazzling 'Golden Glow' tree lighting ceremony complete with a snow show. Families can enjoy Santa's Workshop, a giant snow globe, and free photos with Santa.
Our Take
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, holiday shoppers, art enthusiasts
Vibe
Festive, community-oriented, creative
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Special Events & Promotions
- Official lighting of the 'Golden Glow' tree with live music and snow show
- Free family photos with Santa
- Holiday Raffle to support SAACA
- Holiday gift wrapping service
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.
Location
Event Details
Pricing
FREE
Duration
Festival hours: Saturday 10 AM-6:30 PM, Sunday 10 AM-4 PM. Artisan vendors stay open until 5 PM, Winter Wonderland Experience and some food vendors until 6:30 PM.
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Featured Performers
- Holiday DJ Music
- Oro Valley Team Dance
- Cross Middle School Jazz Band
- Wilson Elementary & Middle School Choir
- Maguire Academy of Irish Dance
- Saguaro City Music Theatre
- Desert Dance Collective
- Tuba Christmas
- Ironwood Ridge High School Jazz Band
- Elite Theater Academy
- School of Rock
- Sheryl Ann McKinley
- Red Herring Puppets Shows
- Kids Unlimited
- Silk and Soul
- Retro Swing XMAS Quartet
- Tucson Girls Chorus
- Saguaro Stompers Clog Dance
- Sonoran Sol Cloggers
- Centre Stage Dance Studio
- BASIS Oro Valley Primary School Choir
- Totally Exalting the Anointed Messiah (T.E.A.M.) City Choir
- NoethenButJazz
- Tucson Chinese Cultural Center
- Ballet Folklorico Alexa Zozaya
- Mariachi Innovación
- Compañía de Danza Folklórica Arizona
- Lajkonik Polish Dance
- Tucson Desert Harmony Chorus
- What the Dickens
- Arizona Women’s Chorus
Organizer
Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance (SAACA)
Practical Information
Parking
Free parking is available at the Oro Valley Marketplace.
Pet Policy
Pet-friendly (on leash)
Food & Drink
Food and beverages are available on-site for purchase from food vendors and local shopping center restaurants.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Dress in layers and bring water, sunscreen, and umbrellas, as outdoor event conditions can vary.
- Arrive early on Saturday to catch the Santa Parade at 3 PM and secure a good spot for the tree lighting ceremony at 6:15 PM.
- Take advantage of the free family photos with Santa and the Golder Ranch Fire Truck, available at specific times.
- Explore the 'Artisan & Maker Village' early in the festival to find the best selection of unique, handmade holiday gifts.
- Don't miss the 'Storytelling Igloo' for a cozy break with holiday tales, and check out the book sale by the Friends of the Oro Valley Public Library.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the event hours?
The festival runs on Saturday from 10 AM to 6:30 PM and on Sunday from 10 AM to 4 PM. Artisan vendors will be open until 5 PM, with the Winter Wonderland Experience and some food vendors staying open later on Saturday.
Is there parking available?
Yes, free parking is available at the Oro Valley Marketplace, surrounding the festival area.
Can I bring my pet?
Yes, dogs are welcome at the event as long as they are kept on a leash.
What kind of food will be available?
A variety of food vendors will be present, offering options like hot dogs, Egyptian dishes, Greek food, vegan comfort food, donuts, Italian desserts, kettle corn, Mexican fusion, BBQ, and Native American cuisine.
What activities are available for children?
Children can enjoy Santa's Workshop with various crafts, a giant snow globe experience, letters to Santa, storytelling in the igloo, and free face painting.
