Christmas in Sedona
To say Christmas in Sedona is magical is an understatement. Red rock cliffs, evergreen junipers, and desert cacti dusted with light snow set the scene for an enchanting, peaceful season. From illuminated courtyards and hot cocoa under the stars to family Christmas activities in Sedona like easy winter hikes and kid-friendly tours, the holidays here are unforgettable.
Top Holiday Highlights
- Tlaquepaque holiday lights, carolers & Santa visits
- The Magical Christmas Journey™ festive train ride
- Family-friendly winter hikes with red rock views
- Evening luminarias, stargazing & cozy dinners
3-Day Family Itinerary – Christmas in Sedona
Day 1 – Christmas Eve: Red Rock Adventures & Lights
Morning
- Bell Rock Pathway – easy family hike, wide trail and epic photos.
- Huckaby Trail – moderate, creek and canyon views for older kids.
- Pre-trail cocoa/coffee at a convenient trailhead café.
Midday
- Stroll Uptown Sedona for festive décor and last-minute gifts.
- Casual family lunch with red rock views.
Afternoon
- Chapel of the Holy Cross – panoramic glow at golden hour.
- The Magical Christmas Journey™ – storybook train ride to the “North Pole.”
Evening
- Family dinner (reserve ahead for Christmas week).
- Wander Tlaquepaque’s Festival of Lights – thousands of luminarias, live music, and holiday cheer.
Day 2 – Christmas Day: Outdoor Fun & Relaxation
Morning
- Leisurely brunch (vegan-friendly and kid-approved options available).
- Red Rock State Park – easy nature paths, creek views, and picnic areas.
Afternoon
- Family Jeep Tour – scenic overlooks, geology & history, lots of fun.
- Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive (89A) – photo stops at overlooks like Midgley Bridge.
Evening
- Festive Christmas dinner (book early).
- Stargazing at Airport Mesa – crystal-clear night skies over the red rocks.
Day 3 – After Christmas: Relax, Shop & Savor
Morning
- Red Rock Crossing at Crescent Moon – iconic Cathedral Rock reflections.
- Pick up pastries or breakfast treats for a creekside picnic.
Midday
- Browse local art galleries and holiday craft markets.
- Optional: short family spa or yoga session to unwind.
Evening
- Casual dinner with outdoor heaters and views.
- Live music or a cozy movie night to wrap up your Sedona Christmas getaway.
More Family-Friendly Christmas Activities in Sedona
Holiday Carriage Rides
Clip-clop through decorated districts for classic Christmas charm and unforgettable photos.
Cookie Decorating & Crafts
Kid-approved workshops and pop-up markets with handmade ornaments and gifts.
Stargazing Programs
Sedona’s dark skies make winter constellations pop—bundle up and look up.
Horseback Riding
Guided red rock rides for beginners and families seeking a calm outdoor adventure.
Hot-Air Balloon Sunrise
See the red rocks glow as the day begins—magical holiday sunrise views.
Winter Hiking & Biking
Cool temps and clear skies make trails especially enjoyable with fewer crowds.
Travel Tips for a Stress-Free Sedona Christmas
- Book early: Hotels, restaurants, trains, and jeep tours sell out for Christmas week.
- Pack layers: Chilly mornings, sunny afternoons; bring hats, gloves, and sunglasses.
- Wear sturdy footwear: Shaded trails can be muddy or icy—consider trekking poles.
- Hydrate & protect: Dry air and bright sun call for water and sunscreen year-round.
- Respect the land: Stay on marked trails and practice Leave No Trace principles.
Photo-Ready Moments
Golden hour at Chapel of the Holy Cross • Luminarias at Tlaquepaque • Cathedral Rock reflections at Red Rock Crossing • Night sky at Airport Mesa
Christmas in Sedona – Family FAQ
- Is Christmas a good time to visit Sedona with kids? - Yes. Cooler weather, festive lights, and family activities like train rides, easy hikes, and jeep tours make Sedona perfect for a holiday getaway with children.
- Will there be snow in Sedona at Christmas? - Light snowfall is possible but not guaranteed. Even without snow, the red rocks and holiday lights create a magical winter atmosphere.
- Do we need reservations for Christmas week? - Yes. Book lodging, special dinners, train rides, and jeep tours well in advance to secure preferred times and seating.
Christmas & Holiday Events in Sedona
FAMILY-FRIENDLY THINGS TO DO OVER THE WINTER HOLIDAY
Arizona Private Tours
Private Tours Available | Custom Options Available | Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided | Pickup from Hotel | Romantic
Wildland Trekking
Family-Friendly
The Blazin’ M Ranch - A Western Themed Frontier Town, Dinner, and A Show
Join us at the Blazin’ M Ranch for an evening of western activities, dinner, and an unforgettable show! The Blazin’ M Ranch features an authentic Western Themed Town located in Cottonwood, Arizona. You’ll find fun family activities and the best chicken and ribs in Arizona, along with … More
Join us at the Blazin’ M Ranch for an evening of western activities, dinner, and an unforgettable show! The Blazin’ M Ranch features an authentic Western Themed Town located in Cottonwood, Arizona. You’ll find fun family activities and the best chicken and ribs in Arizona, along with foil-wrapped potato, cowboy beans, our prickly pear coleslaw, flying biscuits and a delicious homemade dessert.
After dinner the Blazin’ M Cowboys entertain ya’ with their award-winning musical talents mixed with cowboy poetry and humor with a 1 hour show from 7:30pm - 8:30pm!
Family-Friendly | Live Entertainment | Western Experience | Activities | All Food
Northern Light Balloon Expeditions
Pickup from Hotel | Private Tours Available | Romantic | Professionally Guided | Family-Friendly
Grand Canyon South Rim Self-Guided Driving Tour
Self-Guided | Family-Friendly
Sedona Tour from Phoenix & Scottsdale
Tour the magical red rocks of Sedona and visit Native American ruins during this Sedona Tour from Phoenix & Scottsdale. Highlights include spending the day surrounded by the stunning red rock landscapes of Sedona, see ancient Sinagua cliff dwellings at Montezuma Castle National Monument … More
Tour the magical red rocks of Sedona and visit Native American ruins during this Sedona Tour from Phoenix & Scottsdale. Highlights include spending the day surrounded by the stunning red rock landscapes of Sedona, see ancient Sinagua cliff dwellings at Montezuma Castle National Monument. Visit Bell Rock, Airport Mesa and Chapel of the Holy Cross. Options available for shopping, galleries, restaurants in Uptown or T'laquapaque and off-road Jeep tours or guided hike add-ons.
Professionally Guided | Custom Options Available | Private Tours Available | Pickup from Hotel
Grand Canyon South Rim Tour from Phoenix & Scottsdale with Sedona
Professionally Guided | Private Tours Available | Family-Friendly
Best Grand Canyon Day Tours
Voted on Trip Advisor as the most popular Grand Canyon day tour. This is the best way to enjoy the Grand Canyon without doing any strenuous hiking. Nearly five millions people come to see the Canyon each year and many spend much of their time trying to figure out what to do. Our profess … More
Voted on Trip Advisor as the most popular Grand Canyon day tour. This is the best way to enjoy the Grand Canyon without doing any strenuous hiking. Nearly five millions people come to see the Canyon each year and many spend much of their time trying to figure out what to do. Our professional guides will make sure you get the most out of your trip. While touring in comfort you will learn about the geology and history of one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The day tour includes short walks to some incredible "less-used" outlooks, a looking into some of the areas most impressive historic buildings, and time to browse resident art galleries and gift shops.
Professionally Guided | Lunch Included | Private Tours Available | Family-Friendly
Sedona & Red Rock State Park Self-Guided Driving Tour
Self-Guided | Family-Friendly
Sedona UFO Tour Guided By Contacted Scientist
At sundown, all participants caravan 3 miles to a parking area with a dark sky. 3rd gen night vision goggles are distributed to see what can't be seen with the naked eye. Satellites, airplanes and UFOs are seen every night.
Personal UFO Tour: With 3 or more in a … More
At sundown, all participants caravan 3 miles to a parking area with a dark sky. 3rd gen night vision goggles are distributed to see what can't be seen with the naked eye. Satellites, airplanes and UFOs are seen every night.
Personal UFO Tour: With 3 or more in a party, the Sedona UFO Tour Guide comes to you with the gear and the information that has made Michael THE guide to hire for a UFO Tour.
Conversations with a Contactee: Michael will buy lunch and spend an hour sharing his ET contact story, and answering the attendees' questions.
Vortex Experience | Activities | UFO Tours
Villas at Poco Diablo, a VRI Resort
This Sedona hotel features fireplaces in all rooms and an outdoor pool and hot tub for guest use. Cathedral Rock is less than a 10-minute drive from the property. Tennis courts and barbecue facilities are on site at Sedona Poco Diablo. A laundromat is available for guest convenience.
… MoreThis Sedona hotel features fireplaces in all rooms and an outdoor pool and hot tub for guest use. Cathedral Rock is less than a 10-minute drive from the property. Tennis courts and barbecue facilities are on site at Sedona Poco Diablo. A laundromat is available for guest convenience.
Timeshare | Family-Friendly | Things to Do with Family | Kitchenette or Full Kitchen | Activities | Outdoor Pool | BBQ or Grill | Fitness Center | Tennis Courts | Village of Oak Creek
Villas of Sedona, a VRI Resort
Equipped with the comforts of home, this condominium-style property is situated in the heart of Sedona, Arizona's beautiful Red Rocks, and offers breathtaking scenery along with all of today's modern conveniences.
Equipped with the comforts of home, this condominium-style property is situated in the heart of Sedona, Arizona's beautiful Red Rocks, and offers breathtaking scenery along with all of today's modern conveniences.
Timeshare | Family-Friendly | Outdoor Pool | Kitchenette or Full Kitchen | Hot Tub | BBQ or Grill | Activities
Sedona Springs Resort, a VRI Resort
Surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of Sedona, Arizona, and only a short distance away from numerous area attractions and historical sites, this property offers guests all the comforts of home while traveling.
Sedona Springs Resort is ideally situated close to a variety of re … More
Surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of Sedona, Arizona, and only a short distance away from numerous area attractions and historical sites, this property offers guests all the comforts of home while traveling.
Sedona Springs Resort is ideally situated close to a variety of recreational activities and popular points of interest. Take a tour of the Grand Canyon, go hiking at Red Rock State Park, or view ancient Native American ruins, all located nearby.
Timeshare | Family-Friendly | Family-Friendly | BBQ or Grill | Concierge Service | Outdoor Pool | Hot Tub | Kitchenette or Full Kitchen