The Scottsdale area has 15 Christmas events for kids we could confirm for the 2026 season, from Photos with Santa at Scottsdale Fashion Square in Scottsdale on November 6 to Noon Year's Eve at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park in Scottsdale, on December 31. 14 of them are free, and every listing links straight to the host. It is one stop on our guide to Christmas events for kids in Arizona, part of our guide for every state.
The short version
- 15 kids’ Christmas events confirmed in Scottsdale for 2026, in Scottsdale
- First: Photos with Santa at Scottsdale Fashion Square, Scottsdale, November 6. Runs latest: Noon Year's Eve at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, Scottsdale, through December 31
- Free: Photos with Santa at Scottsdale Fashion Square, Christmas Tree Lighting with Santa at Caesars Republic, Photos with Santa at Kierland Commons, Meet Santa at the Farmers Market, Sensory Santa at Kierland Commons, Sensory Santa at Scottsdale Fashion Square, Santa Craft, Polar Express Storytime, Celebrate with Handbells, Nutcracker Ballet Storytime at Arabian Library, Gingerbread Storytime, Nutcracker Ballet Storytime at Civic Center Library, Happy Noon Year Storytime and Noon Year's Eve at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
- Checked on each host’s own page; each listing links straight to it
Below is every event we could confirm, grouped by city, with the date, time, cost and the small things parents ask about (sign-ups, ages, what is included). Looking for a Santa train instead? Those are on our Arizona Christmas train rides page.
Scottsdale Christmas events for kids at a glance
- Kids’ Christmas events
- 15 confirmed for 2026
- Cities
- Scottsdale
- Season
- November 6 to December 31, 2026
- Free events
- 14
- Kinds of events
- Santa visit, holiday story time, tree lighting and breakfast with Santa
- Last checked
Plan your December
When each Scottsdale Christmas event for kids happens
The first is Photos with Santa at Scottsdale Fashion Square in Scottsdale on November 6; the last runs to December 31. Each bar spans an event’s dates, not every hour in them, so check the host’s page for times.
- Photos with Santa at Scottsdale Fashion SquareScottsdale · Nov 6 to Dec 24
- Christmas Tree Lighting with Santa at Caesars RepublicScottsdale · Nov 13
- Photos with Santa at Kierland CommonsScottsdale · Nov 20 to Dec 24
- Meet Santa at the Farmers MarketScottsdale · Nov 28 to Dec 19
- Sensory Santa at Kierland CommonsScottsdale · Dec 6
- Sensory Santa at Scottsdale Fashion SquareScottsdale · Dec 6
- Santa CraftScottsdale · Dec 7
- Pancakes & Pajamas with SantaScottsdale · Dec 12
- Polar Express StorytimeScottsdale · Dec 12
- Celebrate with HandbellsScottsdale · Dec 14
- Nutcracker Ballet Storytime at Arabian LibraryScottsdale · Dec 15
- Gingerbread StorytimeScottsdale · Dec 16
- Nutcracker Ballet Storytime at Civic Center LibraryScottsdale · Dec 16
- Happy Noon Year StorytimeScottsdale · Dec 31
- Noon Year's Eve at McCormick-Stillman Railroad ParkScottsdale · Dec 31
Look inside the book
Story time with Santa in Scottsdale? Bring Rally home.
Rally Takes the Train is a five-minute rhyming picture book about a corgi’s first train ride, hand-painted in real watercolor. It makes a cozy bedtime story after a big day with Santa. Turn a few pages here.
Rally Takes the Train
Eight pages from the book
Turn the page
That's 8 of 25 pages
See who’s waiting at the station
Grandmommy and Papa are at the last stop. Get the full hand-painted book, $16.99 on Amazon.
See the full bookPage 1 of 8
Like it so far? See the full book
25 hand-painted pages, paperback, $16.99 with fast shipping from Amazon.
Every page is real watercolor on paper, painted by hand by Leslie Dunn. Nothing in this book was made with AI.
Christmas events for kids in Scottsdale
15 confirmed events for kids in Scottsdale, soonest first.
Scottsdale: Photos with Santa at Scottsdale Fashion Square
Santa visitFreeScottsdale Fashion Square · Scottsdale
- Host
- Scottsdale Fashion Square (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Scottsdale Fashion Square, Palm Court, 7014 E Camelback Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
- When
- Friday, November 6, 2026 to Thursday, December 24, 2026 (see weekly hours; closed Nov 26)
- Cost
- Free to visit, photo packages for sale
- Ages
- All ages
- Sign-up
- Recommended
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Beginning November 6, Santa sets up in Palm Court at Scottsdale Fashion Square and remains until Christmas Eve. The mall publishes a weekly schedule, and hours are shorter on weekdays in November before growing longer as Christmas nears. The center closes on Thanksgiving.
Seeing Santa costs nothing, and photo packages can be purchased. The mall encourages booking a time online, which also brings a free custom digital greeting from Santa ahead of your visit. Children tell Santa and his helpers what they want and get a photo taken. The center also holds pet nights on certain Monday evenings, plus a sensory-friendly session on December 6 that the mall lists on its own. Reserving ahead is the simplest way to skip a long wait on busy weeks.
Parent tip: Book a time online to avoid the line. Look at the weekly schedule, because hours shift and the mall is closed on Thanksgiving.
See dates and details from Scottsdale Fashion Square (opens in a new tab)Scottsdale: Christmas Tree Lighting with Santa at Caesars Republic
Tree lightingFreeCaesars Republic Scottsdale · Scottsdale
- Host
- Caesars Republic Scottsdale (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Caesars Republic Scottsdale, 4747 N Goldwater Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
- When
- Friday, November 13, 2026, 5:30 to 8:30 pm
- Cost
- Free
- Ages
- All ages
- Sign-up
- Recommended
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Caesars Republic Scottsdale holds its third annual Christmas tree lighting on Friday, November 13. The event begins at 5:30 p.m. with complimentary hot chocolate and cookies while guests wait for Santa Claus to arrive, with live music playing in the lobby.
At 6 p.m. Santa joins the lighting of the nearly 40-foot Christmas tree outside Luna by Giada. Later in the evening there is a reception and a holiday concert on the eighth floor veranda, which is aimed more at adults, so families with young children will want to focus on the earlier tree lighting portion. The listing is free and links to an Eventbrite page, so check there to confirm whether a free ticket is needed for your group. It is one of the first tree lightings of the season in the Scottsdale area.
Parent tip: Arrive at 5:30 p.m. for cocoa and cookies before Santa arrives. Check the Eventbrite page for any sign-up.
See dates and details from Caesars Republic Scottsdale (opens in a new tab)Scottsdale: Photos with Santa at Kierland Commons
Santa visitFreeKierland Commons · Scottsdale
- Host
- Kierland Commons (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Kierland Commons, Center Plaza, 15205 N Kierland Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85254
- When
- Friday, November 20, 2026 to Thursday, December 24, 2026 (see weekly hours; closed Nov 26)
- Cost
- Free to visit, photo packages for sale
- Ages
- All ages
- Sign-up
- Recommended
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
On November 20 Santa arrives at Center Plaza at Kierland Commons, and he follows a published schedule into late December. Hours change weekly: early December weekdays run afternoons into evenings, while weekends have longer days. The center closes on Thanksgiving.
Seeing Santa costs nothing, and photo packages can be purchased. The center recommends booking a time online, which comes with a free custom digital greeting from Santa ahead of your visit. Kids tell Santa and his helpers their wishes, then pose for a photo. Center Plaza is open-air, so it feels calmer than a line inside a mall, though a warm layer helps against the evening chill. The center page lists pet nights and a December 6 sensory session separately.
Parent tip: Book a time online. Hours change weekly, and Santa usually rests between 3 and 4 p.m.
See dates and details from Kierland Commons (opens in a new tab)Scottsdale: Meet Santa at the Farmers Market
Santa visitFreeOld Town Scottsdale (Scottsdazzle) · Scottsdale
- Host
- Old Town Scottsdale (Scottsdazzle) (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market, 3939 N Drinkwater Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
- When
- Sat November 28, Sat December 5, Sat December 12 and Sat December 19, 2026, 9 am to noon
- Cost
- Free
- Ages
- All ages
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Scottsdazzle is the city's holiday celebration lasting a month, and as part of it Santa shows up at the Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market on four Saturdays: November 28 and December 5, 12 and 19. Kids of any age, along with their pets, can pose with Santa and get a printed picture to take home.
Santa is there between 9 a.m. and noon, and the market itself stays open 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Civic Center, so you can also pick up fresh produce and presents from local merchants and artisans. According to the calendar, Santa photos are free. With the market outdoors, the stop is relaxed and quick, which suits toddlers who may struggle with a long mall line. Getting there earlier in the morning can mean less waiting.
Parent tip: Santa is only there 9 a.m. to noon, though shopping at the market starts earlier and lasts until 1 p.m.
See dates and details from Old Town Scottsdale (Scottsdazzle) (opens in a new tab)Scottsdale: Sensory Santa at Kierland Commons
Santa visitFreeKierland Commons · Scottsdale
- Host
- Kierland Commons (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Kierland Commons, Center Plaza, 15205 N Kierland Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85254
- When
- Sunday, December 6, 2026, 9 to 10 am
- Cost
- Free to visit, photo packages for sale
- Ages
- All ages and abilities
- Sign-up
- Recommended
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Sensory Santa at Kierland Commons takes place on Sunday, December 6, from 9 to 10 a.m. The center lists it as a special Santa event, separate from the regular daily visits that run in Center Plaza from late November.
The early hour is designed to give children who are sensitive to noise, crowds or waiting a calmer environment in which to meet Santa. As with regular visits, seeing Santa is free and photo packages are available for purchase. The center recommends scheduling a spot in advance, which also earns a free personalized digital message from Santa. If your child usually struggles with holiday crowds, a one hour window before the center gets busy can make the difference between a stressful visit and a happy memory. Check the center page for the booking link.
Parent tip: Reserve a slot ahead of time. The session lasts one hour only.
See dates and details from Kierland Commons (opens in a new tab)Scottsdale: Sensory Santa at Scottsdale Fashion Square
Santa visitFreeScottsdale Fashion Square · Scottsdale
- Host
- Scottsdale Fashion Square (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Scottsdale Fashion Square, Palm Court, 7014 E Camelback Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
- When
- Sunday, December 6, 2026, 9 to 10:30 am
- Cost
- Free to visit, photo packages for sale
- Ages
- All ages and abilities
- Sign-up
- Recommended
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Sensory Santa is a special early session at Scottsdale Fashion Square on Sunday, December 6, from 9 to 10:30 a.m. The mall lists it among its special Santa events, alongside pet nights, and it takes place in Palm Court where Santa is stationed all season.
The session is meant for families who find the regular Santa experience too crowded or loud, including children with sensory sensitivities. As with other visits at the mall, seeing Santa is free and photo packages are available for purchase. The mall recommends scheduling a time ahead, and doing so earns a free personalized digital message from Santa. Because the session happens before the mall is busy, it gives children a calmer setting to warm up to Santa at their own pace. The mall does not list further details, so contact the center with specific questions.
Parent tip: Book a time ahead. Contact the mall for accommodation questions.
See dates and details from Scottsdale Fashion Square (opens in a new tab)Scottsdale: Santa Craft
Santa visitFreeScottsdale Public Library · Scottsdale
- Host
- Scottsdale Public Library (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Arabian Library, 10215 E McDowell Mountain Ranch Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
- When
- Monday, December 7, 2026, 4 to 4:45 pm
- Cost
- Free
- Ages
- Ages 6 to 11
- Sign-up
- Required ahead of time
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Arabian Library invites children ages 6 to 11 to deck the halls with a hands-on holiday craft. Participants make a Santa ornament they can take home and hang on their own tree. The program lasts 45 minutes, from 4 to 4:45 p.m. on Monday, December 7, so it fits right after school.
Space is limited to 20 participants. The library asks families to see a staff member 30 minutes before the program starts to pick up a ticket, which serves as the registration. That means there is no online sign-up to manage, but it also means arriving a little early matters if you want a spot. The program is free like most Scottsdale Public Library offerings, and it is a pleasant, low-pressure way for school-age kids to make something festive without a big crowd or a long outing.
Parent tip: Pick up a free ticket from a staff member 30 minutes before the program. Only 20 spots are available.
See dates and details from Scottsdale Public Library (opens in a new tab)Scottsdale: Pancakes & Pajamas with Santa
Breakfast with SantaOld Town Scottsdale (Scottsdazzle) · Scottsdale
- Host
- Old Town Scottsdale (Scottsdazzle) (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Scottsdale Waterfront, 7124 E Stetson Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
- When
- Saturday, December 12, 2026, 9 to 10:30 am
- Cost
- $30 per person
- Ages
- All ages
- Sign-up
- Required ahead of time
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Pancakes & Pajamas with Santa is a Scottsdazzle breakfast, served outdoors at the Scottsdale Waterfront among holiday decorations. The morning brings a meal, a chance to meet Santa Claus, a storytime run by the Scottsdale Public Library, and arts and crafts to do by hand. Each guest also leaves with a Scottsdazzle gift.
Children of every age are invited to put on holiday pajamas, and parents are welcome to do so as well. Tickets cost $30, and the event page states that each guest, adults included, needs a paid seat. An adult must accompany every child or group of kids, and tickets cannot be refunded. The session is Saturday, December 12, 9 to 10:30 a.m. With its library storytime, this is one of the few Santa events in Scottsdale that includes books, a bonus for families who enjoy reading together.
Parent tip: Everyone attending needs a paid seat, and no refunds are given. Put on holiday pajamas and add a warm layer, since the breakfast is outdoors.
See dates and details from Old Town Scottsdale (Scottsdazzle) (opens in a new tab)Scottsdale: Polar Express Storytime
Holiday story timeFreeScottsdale Public Library · Scottsdale
- Host
- Scottsdale Public Library (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Arabian Library, 10215 E McDowell Mountain Ranch Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
- When
- Saturday, December 12, 2026, 10:15 to 11 am
- Cost
- Free
- Ages
- Ages 0 to 8
- Sign-up
- Required ahead of time
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Arabian Library turns a Saturday morning storytime into a Polar Express adventure. Children are invited to wear their pajamas and join a holiday story, songs and treats, with the library asking the classic question, do you believe?
The program is written for ages 0 to 8 and lasts 45 minutes, starting at 10:15 a.m. on Saturday, December 12. Because the age range is wide, it works for families with a baby and an older sibling at the same time. Space is limited, so the library asks families to see a staff member 30 minutes before the program to pick up a ticket, which acts as registration. The storytime is free and held inside the library, so it is a comfortable choice for a cool morning, and the treats give kids a little something extra to look forward to.
Parent tip: Wear pajamas. Collect a free ticket from staff 30 minutes before the program begins.
See dates and details from Scottsdale Public Library (opens in a new tab)Scottsdale: Celebrate with Handbells
Holiday showFreeScottsdale Public Library · Scottsdale
- Host
- Scottsdale Public Library (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Arabian Library, 10215 E McDowell Mountain Ranch Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
- When
- Monday, December 14, 2026, 4 to 4:45 pm
- Cost
- Free
- Ages
- Ages 6 to 11
- Sign-up
- Required ahead of time
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Arabian Library offers school-age children a chance to try handbells. Participants learn about the history of handbells and then practice two seasonal songs together, getting a taste of ringing as a group.
The program is for ages 6 to 11 and runs 45 minutes, from 4 to 4:45 p.m. on Monday, December 14. It is limited to 15 participants, so the library asks families to see a staff member 30 minutes before the start to pick up a ticket, which acts as registration. The event is free. It is a good pick for kids who enjoy music and teamwork, since a handbell piece depends on everyone ringing at the right moment. Families new to the library will also find it a friendly way to see what the branch offers beyond books.
Parent tip: Only 15 spots. Pick up a free ticket 30 minutes before the program.
See dates and details from Scottsdale Public Library (opens in a new tab)Scottsdale: Nutcracker Ballet Storytime at Arabian Library
Holiday story timeFreeScottsdale Public Library · Scottsdale
- Host
- Scottsdale Public Library (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Arabian Library, 10215 E McDowell Mountain Ranch Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
- When
- Tuesday, December 15, 2026, 10:15 to 11 am
- Cost
- Free
- Ages
- Ages 0 to 8
- Sign-up
- Required ahead of time
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Arabian Library enters the magical world of The Nutcracker, a seasonal favorite full of awe, enchantment and glittering snowflakes. The storytime blends the tale with movement. Ballerinas from Tutu School Scottsdale are present to teach children several dance moves.
The program suits ages 0 to 8. It lasts 45 minutes on Tuesday, December 15, starting at 10:15 a.m. and finishing at 11 a.m. Active kids will enjoy it, and so will families wanting a first taste of ballet before attending a full show somewhere else. Room is limited, so the library asks you to find a staff member 30 minutes ahead and pick up a ticket, which counts as your registration. It costs nothing and happens indoors, so the weather does not matter.
Parent tip: Free tickets are available beginning half an hour prior. Roomy clothes make the dance moves easier.
See dates and details from Scottsdale Public Library (opens in a new tab)Scottsdale: Gingerbread Storytime
Holiday story timeFreeScottsdale Public Library · Scottsdale
- Host
- Scottsdale Public Library (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Appaloosa Library, 7377 E Silverstone Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
- When
- Wednesday, December 16, 2026, 10:30 to 11 am
- Cost
- Free
- Ages
- Ages 0 to 5
- Sign-up
- Required ahead of time
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Run, run as fast as you can into Appaloosa Library's storytime celebrating the gingerbread man. The special holiday themed program includes fun stories and a craft, and it is written for children ages 0 to 5 together with their caregivers.
The session lasts 30 minutes, from 10:30 to 11 a.m. on Wednesday, December 16, which suits the attention span of toddlers and preschoolers. It is limited to 25 participants plus their caregivers, and the library asks families to see a staff person 30 minutes before the program to pick up a ticket, which is the registration. The storytime is free. A short, crafty program like this is a gentle introduction to holiday traditions for little ones, and the gingerbread theme is a favorite with children who love repeating the chase refrain.
Parent tip: Only 25 children can join. Collect a free ticket from staff 30 minutes before the program.
See dates and details from Scottsdale Public Library (opens in a new tab)Scottsdale: Nutcracker Ballet Storytime at Civic Center Library
Holiday story timeFreeScottsdale Public Library · Scottsdale
- Host
- Scottsdale Public Library (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Civic Center Library, 3839 N Drinkwater Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
- When
- Wednesday, December 16, 2026, 6 to 6:45 pm
- Cost
- Free
- Ages
- Ages 0 to 8
- Sign-up
- Required ahead of time
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Civic Center Library offers a night version of its Nutcracker Ballet Storytime, made for families unable to come in the morning. The program enters the charming world of The Nutcracker, a seasonal favorite packed with awe, enchantment and glittering snowflakes.
Made for ages 0 to 8, it lasts 45 minutes on Wednesday, December 16, from 6 until 6:45 p.m. Room is limited, so the library asks you to find a staff member 30 minutes before the start and collect a ticket, which is how you register. Evening storytimes help working parents and school-age kids who are in class during daytime sessions. It costs nothing and takes place inside the library, in central Old Town Scottsdale, close to the Civic Center.
Parent tip: This evening session helps working families. Free tickets come from staff starting half an hour beforehand.
See dates and details from Scottsdale Public Library (opens in a new tab)Scottsdale: Happy Noon Year Storytime
Holiday story timeFreeScottsdale Public Library · Scottsdale
- Host
- Scottsdale Public Library (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Arabian Library, 10215 E McDowell Mountain Ranch Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
- When
- Thursday, December 31, 2026, 11 to 11:45 am
- Cost
- Free
- Ages
- Ages 0 to 8
- Sign-up
- Required ahead of time
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Arabian Library celebrates the new year without the late night. The Happy Noon Year Storytime offers books, activities and a craft in a family storytime that welcomes children from babies through age 8.
The program lasts 45 minutes, from 11 to 11:45 a.m. on Thursday, December 31, which falls in the middle of winter break and gives families a free, easy outing on a day when many other places are busy. Space is limited, so the library asks families to see a staff member 30 minutes before the program to pick up a ticket, which serves as registration. The mix of stories and a hands-on craft keeps younger children engaged, and the late morning time means you can follow it with lunch and still be home for naps.
Parent tip: Collect a free ticket from staff 30 minutes before the program.
See dates and details from Scottsdale Public Library (opens in a new tab)Scottsdale: Noon Year's Eve at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
Holiday eventFreeCity of Scottsdale · Scottsdale
- Host
- City of Scottsdale (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, 7301 E Indian Bend Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85250
- When
- Thursday, December 31, 2026, 11 am to 1 pm
- Cost
- Free
- Ages
- All ages
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park hosts a midday New Year celebration, a kid-friendly way to ring in the year without staying up late. The city calendar lists the event on Thursday, December 31, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., with no admission price shown.
What to expect includes colorful noisemakers and happy new year hats, a sparkling cider toast at the stroke of noon that the city describes as perfect for all ages, and a golden railroad spike drop at the countdown. The park is outdoors, so dress for the weather. Because the event spans two hours, families can arrive at any point before noon and still catch the countdown. It is a convenient winter break outing, and the toast and noisemakers give children a real taste of the celebration with plenty of daylight left for the park.
Parent tip: Arrive before noon to get noisemakers and hats. The event is outdoors, so dress for the weather.
See dates and details from City of Scottsdale (opens in a new tab)Looking further afield? Our Arizona Christmas events for kids guide lists every confirmed event in the state, and we have city guides for Phoenix, Tucson, Mesa and Chandler. The national search sorts every event by distance from your town.
A story for the drive home
A morning with Santa or an evening of holiday stories tends to end the same way: tired kids, a long drive and one more book before bed. Our picture book follows Rally the corgi on his first train ride to see his grand-paw-rents, and every page is painted by hand. If your family is spending December missing someone, it was written for that too. For the car, print our free corgi and train coloring pages.
A bedtime story after seeing SantaRally Takes the Train is a five-minute rhyming picture book about a corgi’s first train ride, hand-painted in real watercolor by Leslie Dunn. $16.99 on Amazon, ages 0 to 8.
Buy on AmazonScottsdale Christmas events for kids: questions parents ask
What Christmas events for kids are in Scottsdale in 2026?
We confirmed 15 Christmas events for kids in Scottsdale for 2026 on each host’s own page: Photos with Santa at Scottsdale Fashion Square in Scottsdale (November 6), Christmas Tree Lighting with Santa at Caesars Republic in Scottsdale (November 13), Photos with Santa at Kierland Commons in Scottsdale (November 20), Meet Santa at the Farmers Market in Scottsdale (November 28), Sensory Santa at Kierland Commons in Scottsdale (December 6), Sensory Santa at Scottsdale Fashion Square in Scottsdale (December 6), Santa Craft in Scottsdale (December 7), Pancakes & Pajamas with Santa in Scottsdale (December 12), Polar Express Storytime in Scottsdale (December 12), Celebrate with Handbells in Scottsdale (December 14), Nutcracker Ballet Storytime at Arabian Library in Scottsdale (December 15), Gingerbread Storytime in Scottsdale (December 16), Nutcracker Ballet Storytime at Civic Center Library in Scottsdale (December 16), Happy Noon Year Storytime in Scottsdale (December 31) and Noon Year's Eve at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park in Scottsdale (December 31). Every one is listed below with times, cost and a link to the host.
What Christmas events for kids are in Scottsdale, Arizona?
For families in and around Scottsdale, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Photos with Santa at Scottsdale Fashion Square (Daily, Nov 6 to Dec 24 (hours vary), free to visit, photo packages for sale); Christmas Tree Lighting with Santa at Caesars Republic (Fri, Nov 13, 5:30 p.m. start, tree lighting at 6 p.m., free); Photos with Santa at Kierland Commons (Daily, Nov 20 to Dec 24 (hours vary), free to visit, photo packages for sale); Meet Santa at the Farmers Market (Saturdays, Nov 28, Dec 5, Dec 12 and Dec 19, 9 a.m. to noon, free); Sensory Santa at Kierland Commons (Sun, Dec 6, 9 to 10 a.m., free to visit, photo packages for sale); Sensory Santa at Scottsdale Fashion Square (Sun, Dec 6, 9 to 10:30 a.m., free to visit, photo packages for sale); Santa Craft (Mon, Dec 7, 4 to 4:45 p.m., free); Pancakes & Pajamas with Santa (Sat, Dec 12, 9 to 10:30 a.m., $30 per person); Polar Express Storytime (Sat, Dec 12, 10:15 to 11 a.m., free); Celebrate with Handbells (Mon, Dec 14, 4 to 4:45 p.m., free); Nutcracker Ballet Storytime at Arabian Library (Tue, Dec 15, 10:15 to 11 a.m., free); Gingerbread Storytime (Wed, Dec 16, 10:30 to 11 a.m., free); Nutcracker Ballet Storytime at Civic Center Library (Wed, Dec 16, 6 to 6:45 p.m., free); Happy Noon Year Storytime (Thu, Dec 31, 11 to 11:45 a.m., free); Noon Year's Eve at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park (Thu, Dec 31, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., free). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Scottsdale section of this page.
Are there free Christmas events for kids in Scottsdale?
Yes. 14 of the 15 events here are free: Photos with Santa at Scottsdale Fashion Square in Scottsdale, Christmas Tree Lighting with Santa at Caesars Republic in Scottsdale, Photos with Santa at Kierland Commons in Scottsdale, Meet Santa at the Farmers Market in Scottsdale, Sensory Santa at Kierland Commons in Scottsdale, Sensory Santa at Scottsdale Fashion Square in Scottsdale, Santa Craft in Scottsdale, Polar Express Storytime in Scottsdale, Celebrate with Handbells in Scottsdale, Nutcracker Ballet Storytime at Arabian Library in Scottsdale, Gingerbread Storytime in Scottsdale, Nutcracker Ballet Storytime at Civic Center Library in Scottsdale, Happy Noon Year Storytime in Scottsdale and Noon Year's Eve at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park in Scottsdale. Some free events still ask you to register, so check each listing.
Where can kids see Santa in Scottsdale this December?
Santa appears at Photos with Santa at Scottsdale Fashion Square in Scottsdale (November 6), Christmas Tree Lighting with Santa at Caesars Republic in Scottsdale (November 13), Photos with Santa at Kierland Commons in Scottsdale (November 20), Meet Santa at the Farmers Market in Scottsdale (November 28), Sensory Santa at Kierland Commons in Scottsdale (December 6), Sensory Santa at Scottsdale Fashion Square in Scottsdale (December 6), Santa Craft in Scottsdale (December 7) and Pancakes & Pajamas with Santa in Scottsdale (December 12). Times and booking rules are in each event’s listing above.
Where are there Christmas story times for kids in Scottsdale?
Holiday story times on this page: Pancakes & Pajamas with Santa in Scottsdale, Polar Express Storytime in Scottsdale, Nutcracker Ballet Storytime at Arabian Library in Scottsdale, Gingerbread Storytime in Scottsdale, Nutcracker Ballet Storytime at Civic Center Library in Scottsdale and Happy Noon Year Storytime in Scottsdale. Library story times are usually free; story times with a meal or show are ticketed.
Where can we have breakfast or a meal with Santa in Scottsdale?
Meals with Santa confirmed for 2026: Pancakes & Pajamas with Santa in Scottsdale (Sat, Dec 12, 9 to 10:30 a.m.). These usually sell out, so book as soon as you pick a date.
Which Scottsdale Christmas events are best for toddlers?
These are aimed at babies, toddlers and preschoolers: Polar Express Storytime in Scottsdale (Ages 0 to 8), Nutcracker Ballet Storytime at Arabian Library in Scottsdale (Ages 0 to 8), Gingerbread Storytime in Scottsdale (Ages 0 to 5), Nutcracker Ballet Storytime at Civic Center Library in Scottsdale (Ages 0 to 8) and Happy Noon Year Storytime in Scottsdale (Ages 0 to 8).
Are there kids' Christmas events in Scottsdale on Christmas Eve or after Christmas?
Yes: Photos with Santa at Scottsdale Fashion Square in Scottsdale (through December 24), Photos with Santa at Kierland Commons in Scottsdale (through December 24), Happy Noon Year Storytime in Scottsdale (through December 31) and Noon Year's Eve at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park in Scottsdale (through December 31).
How much is Photos with Santa at Scottsdale Fashion Square in Scottsdale?
Free to visit, photo packages for sale. Photos with Santa at Scottsdale Fashion Square is on Friday, November 6, 2026 to Thursday, December 24, 2026 (see weekly hours; closed Nov 26) at Scottsdale Fashion Square, Palm Court. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Christmas Tree Lighting with Santa at Caesars Republic in Scottsdale?
Free. Christmas Tree Lighting with Santa at Caesars Republic is on Friday, November 13, 2026, 5:30 to 8:30 pm at Caesars Republic Scottsdale. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Photos with Santa at Kierland Commons in Scottsdale?
Free to visit, photo packages for sale. Photos with Santa at Kierland Commons is on Friday, November 20, 2026 to Thursday, December 24, 2026 (see weekly hours; closed Nov 26) at Kierland Commons, Center Plaza. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Meet Santa at the Farmers Market in Scottsdale?
Free. Meet Santa at the Farmers Market is on Sat November 28, Sat December 5, Sat December 12 and Sat December 19, 2026, 9 am to noon at Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Sensory Santa at Kierland Commons in Scottsdale?
Free to visit, photo packages for sale. Sensory Santa at Kierland Commons is on Sunday, December 6, 2026, 9 to 10 am at Kierland Commons, Center Plaza. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Sensory Santa at Scottsdale Fashion Square in Scottsdale?
Free to visit, photo packages for sale. Sensory Santa at Scottsdale Fashion Square is on Sunday, December 6, 2026, 9 to 10:30 am at Scottsdale Fashion Square, Palm Court. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Santa Craft in Scottsdale?
Free. Santa Craft is on Monday, December 7, 2026, 4 to 4:45 pm at Arabian Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Pancakes & Pajamas with Santa in Scottsdale?
$30 per person. Pancakes & Pajamas with Santa is on Saturday, December 12, 2026, 9 to 10:30 am at Scottsdale Waterfront. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Polar Express Storytime in Scottsdale?
Free. Polar Express Storytime is on Saturday, December 12, 2026, 10:15 to 11 am at Arabian Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Celebrate with Handbells in Scottsdale?
Free. Celebrate with Handbells is on Monday, December 14, 2026, 4 to 4:45 pm at Arabian Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Nutcracker Ballet Storytime at Arabian Library in Scottsdale?
Free. Nutcracker Ballet Storytime at Arabian Library is on Tuesday, December 15, 2026, 10:15 to 11 am at Arabian Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Gingerbread Storytime in Scottsdale?
Free. Gingerbread Storytime is on Wednesday, December 16, 2026, 10:30 to 11 am at Appaloosa Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Nutcracker Ballet Storytime at Civic Center Library in Scottsdale?
Free. Nutcracker Ballet Storytime at Civic Center Library is on Wednesday, December 16, 2026, 6 to 6:45 pm at Civic Center Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Happy Noon Year Storytime in Scottsdale?
Free. Happy Noon Year Storytime is on Thursday, December 31, 2026, 11 to 11:45 am at Arabian Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Noon Year's Eve at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park in Scottsdale?
Free. Noon Year's Eve at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park is on Thursday, December 31, 2026, 11 am to 1 pm at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
Are there Christmas train rides for kids in Scottsdale?
Yes, but they have their own guide. Santa trains and holiday train rides are listed in our Scottsdale Christmas train rides guide, so this page sticks to story times, Santa visits and other events off the rails.
How do you confirm these events?
We list an event only after we find this season’s date on the host’s own website or an official city or tourism calendar. We last checked every listing on November 2, 2026. Hosts change details, so always confirm on the host’s page before you go.
Event names belong to their hosts. Rally Takes the Train is a family picture book and is not affiliated with, sponsored by or endorsed by any host listed here. Confirm dates, times and prices on each host’s own site before you go.
