By Lauren Wong 

For 12 straight years, the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess has brought The Magic of Christmas at the Princess to
you. This year’s six week festival begins on Nov. 16 and will run through Jan. 2, 2022. Look forward to seeing all your favorite attractions from years past, as well as some new traditions in the making.

From your conventional pictures with Santa to ice skating in the desert, it makes for the perfect date night, family outing, or night out with your friends, etc. Get ready as we near the holiday season by gathering your loved ones and embracing the magic of Christmas brought to you by the Princess.

So what can you expect at this year’s festival?

The beloved Desert Ice Skating Rink is back! It may be hard to believe, but as you’re gliding past palm trees in sunny Scottsdale, on their 6,000 square foot rink, you are indeed on real ice.

The Village is making its debut this year. Be amazed by their 120 foot Snow Mountain as you grab your sled and head up to the top. Skate through the Alpine Skate Trail, get lost and find your way in the Ice Maze, and ride on the chair lift at the snowy Village. Travel through and spot Graham at home roasting marshmallows and feed your sweet tooth as you join him around the campfire in the Christmas Tree Forest.

With over six million lights, hop aboard the Lagoon Lights and Princess Express Train to see swans, a buccaneer pirate ship, and mermaid, all among the resort’s lagoons. The hype surrounding the ride is back and this year it will feature an all new 12-foot 3D hippo, octopus, hot air balloon, and 15-foot princess. Additionally, Comet’s Caboose, located just outside the train depot, will be open and serving festive beverages.

70,000 LED lights pair up with 18 classic holiday songs for the five-minute Enchanted Plaza Show. Winterland is back with its frosty ice bar, hot drinks and complimentary fire pit seating. New photo props make for that perfect holiday Instagram post. Guests can step inside of a life-size snow globe or hop onto a snowmobile while posing for that perfect picture.

Rent one of their 10 VIP climate-controlled igloos. Igloo packages must be pre-purchased online and you’ll receive tickets for up to eight individuals. A VIP igloo fire pit ticket gets you express wristbands, an hour ice skate wristbands, a charcuterie board, s’mores platter, complimentary valet parking for up to two vehicles, and, of course, your exclusive fire pit table at the Village. Described as a ‘luxe hygge look,’ the igloos create the perfect ambiance for getting into the holiday spirit.

At the Lodge you’ll get access to a craft-inspired menu. Find everything from bacon-wrapped meatloaf, to loaded waffle fries, cavatelli pasta, and more. Enjoy your holiday themed cocktails and pre-purchase your firepit packages at the Lodge. There are additional rentals available at the Desert Ice Skating Rink for a rinkside experience equipped with blankets and smores. While enjoying your fireside dinner, keep an eye out for holiday character appearances!

In spreading love and hope, Christmas at the Princess presents to you A Christmas Wish. New for 2022, there will be a ceremony running throughout the evenings where you can send a wish up into the night sky with their Christmas wish paper. With raised spirits, watch as your hopes float up into the heavens.

Twinkle Town has announced three new rides this year including the Polar Glide Ice Slide, an All-new Christmas carousel, and Lolli Swings. Representing the story of Christmas, the Nativity Garden Narrated Light Show, will be running every 15 minutes throughout the night.

At Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, the holiday season is a busy time. Whether you’re looking for a night out on the town or a full weekend getaway, their Christmas festival has events and activities for everyone. Enjoy their holiday-themed treats, Christmas Takeaway Dinner, and all the surrounding shops and restaurants.

Give back while enjoying the holidays with the Princess. For every Christmas Wish room that’s booked, a portion of the proceeds will go towards the #LoveUp Foundation.

The Scottsdale Princess hits every angle you could imagine when it comes time to indulge in the holiday festivities. 

For more information and to book one of these holiday experiences, visit their website.

 

Photo credit: Fairmont Scottsdale Princess