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The article provides a list of events happening around the valley from December 1-7, with activities ranging from holiday light shows to art exhibits to outdoor markets.

Some highlighted events include the Enchanted Christmas Indoor Tour, the Glendale Glitters holiday light display, and the Phoenix Festival of the Arts. There are also opportunities to enjoy live music, watch holiday performances, and browse unique gifts at local markets.

Whether looking for family-friendly activities or date night ideas, this list offers a variety of options to explore and enjoy the holiday season in the Phoenix area.

❤️ Phoenix Spotlight: A community sending holiday cards to troops overseas

American Legion Pat Tillman Post 117 and its auxiliary in Phoenix have launched a major holiday-season outreach: they’re aiming to send 22,000 Christmas cards to U.S. service members—both those stationed overseas and some based on U.S. soil who won’t be able to spend the holidays with family. ABC15 Arizona in Phoenix (KNXV)

• This year’s effort builds on previous years (last year they sent over 20,000 cards) and reflects a growing community effort to spread support and gratitude to troops. ABC15 Arizona in Phoenix (KNXV)

• Volunteers are asking for help—whether by signing cards, dropping off pre-written ones, or simply spreading the word. Every card is meant to carry a message of appreciation and hope. ABC15 Arizona in Phoenix (KNXV)

• Organizers refer to it as a “labor of love”—a grassroots push to make sure that servicemembers know they’re remembered and valued during the holidays. ABC15 Arizona in Phoenix (KNXV)

Community Spotlight—Holiday Wishes & Hope for Kids

Make‑A‑Wish Arizona Brings Back the Holiday Wish Line

• Starting December 8, Make-A-Wish Arizona relaunched their annual Holiday Wish Line—a phone line (and campaign) collecting messages from wish kids across the country so that people nationwide can listen, reflect, and send goodwill during the holiday season. Morningstar

• It’s a small but powerful tradition meant to uplift kids and families during a challenging time, spreading light, hope, and a reminder that community matters—especially around the holidays. Morningstar

Try using the light rail system to easily navigate around the city and avoid traffic congestion.

Notable Phoenix Events This Week

• ZooLights — The holiday lights show at Phoenix Zoo is running now through mid-January. Great for families, couples, or a festive night out. https://www.azfamily.com

• Phoestivus — A free holiday-themed gathering at Arizona Center on December 12, from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Light-hearted, fun vibes — good for friends or a casual night out. https://www.azfamily.com

• The Nutcracker — Holiday ballet performances begin December 12 at Phoenix Symphony Hall. A festive, classic cultural outing if you enjoy dance and seasonal arts. https://www.azfamily.com+1

• Holiday-themed theater & shows — For example, the play A Drunk Christmas Carol is running now at Rose Theater at Arizona Center — a fun (and adult-oriented) take on the holiday classic. https://www.azfamily.com+1

Wear sunscreen and stay hydrated even in the winter all around Phoenix!

City of Phoenix’s Budget Ups and Downs

• The city recently closed its fiscal year with an $11.6 million surplus, thanks largely to strong sales-tax collections. ABC15 Arizona in Phoenix (KNXV)

• But that surplus is on the lower end compared with recent years, and city officials warn that Phoenix continues to face serious financial headwinds ahead. ABC15 Arizona in Phoenix (KNXV)
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• One major factor: earlier this year, the city council approved a raise in the local sales tax (transaction privilege tax) from 2.3% to 2.8%, effective July 2025—a move meant to help offset lost revenue and keep essential services funded. CitizenPortal

• The extra revenue is being used to support key priorities such as emergency services (firefighters), homelessness response programs, water-treatment infrastructure, and bolstering housing-support efforts. CitizenPortal+1

Why This Matters—Challenges Ahead for Phoenix

• Despite the surplus, Phoenix officials note the surplus has steadily declined over recent years, even as costs rise and pressure mounts on public services. ABC15 Arizona in Phoenix (KNXV)

• Some of the city’s revenue sources—including certain federal funds and state-driven revenue shifts—are uncertain or decreasing, meaning Phoenix may need to balance tough choices: raise more revenue, cut programs, or both. ABC15 Arizona in Phoenix (KNXV)

• That could have real impacts on community services, public safety response times, homeless-support programs, and infrastructure maintenance if funding doesn’t keep pace with demand.