Holiday Activities in Phoenix, Arizona

• Phoenix offers family friendly events during the holiday season. Morey Milbradt/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images

  Phoenix may not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of the holiday season. Though it's hot and dry, the greater Phoenix area still gets itself into the holiday spirit with special events and festivals that the whole family will enjoy.

Electric Light Parade

• The Phoenix Electric Light Parade is held every year on the first Saturday in December in the evening. The parade goes through central Phoenix on Central Avenue, and features elaborately lit floats. Prizes are awarded to the best floats. Float designs include Santa's workshop, desert gardens and a Nativity scene. Marching bands and dance troupes also perform in the parade. Arrive early to get a good spot on the parade route.

Toys for Tots Jingle Bell Run

• The annual Toys for Tots Jingle Bell Run raises money and thousands of toys for military families. The course begins and ends at Victory Lane Sports Park. Racers will be timed, and given a jingle bell to tie to their shoe laces. Awards are given out to the top three male and female racers in specific age categories. A professional Santa runner participates, and if you beat him you could win free entry into all of the organizer's racing events. If you are attending as a spectator, be sure to bring along a new, unopened toy to donate to Toys for Tots. Check website for updated registration information.

Breakfast with Santa

• Bring the kids to the Phoenix Zoo for a special Breakfast with Santa. Located in the Stone House Pavillion at the zoo, Santa will sit down with the kids and enjoy a hot breakfast. Breakfast items include buttermilk pancakes, scrambled eggs and breakfast potatoes. Included in the price of the ticket is general admission to the zoo, and a photo session with Santa. Please call for current date and prices.