How To Start A Holiday Tradition

Family traditions are common during the holiday season and more important for your family than you may realize. Check out how to start a holiday tradition this year and why your family needs them.

Usually, around the holidays, I hear people talking about family Christmas traditions, or different New Year’s Eve traditions that they do with their friends and family members. 

What are holiday traditions…and are they really that important to do?

Family traditions are things you do year after year. They’re shared experiences that help to not only bond members together (and create identity) but also create lasting memories. In addition, traditions offer families a way to reconnect in our fast-paced world.

In fact, studies have shown that people are happier when they focus on experiences rather than on material objects.

And when it comes to the holiday season, well, holiday traditions make the season more memorable, more enjoyable, and provide something that friends and family members look forward to year after year.

I think it’s important to note that holiday traditions don’t need to be large sweeping events or grand gestures. Instead, they can be simple things that you do each year and every family member knows to expect it such as eating that special Christmas morning breakfast, a fun gift exchange, or listening to holiday music while decorating the house.

How to Start a Holiday Tradition

Want to start a holiday tradition with your family? It’s easier than you probably think!

When it comes to family traditions, it’s not about how many you do – it’s about the quality of the traditions. And they can be done on a daily, weekly, monthly, annually, or seasonal basis – or be tied to holidays.

Here are a few tips to help you get started.

Choose Activities

If you want to start creating some family traditions around the holidays, all you have to do is choose a few activities that your family enjoys or that align with your family’s values and repeat them intentionally and consistently. 

Pro Tip: as you pick which family traditions you want to do, be sure to consider both the adult perspective and the child’s perspective. In our family, we’ve found that there are things we do that seem silly or mundane to us but the kids love it and talk about it all year long.

Which activities do you already do (or want to do) year after year? Pick some that are kid-friendly so everyone can participate, but it’s also okay to have a few that only you and your partner do together. 

I bet you already have a couple and didn’t realize it!

Get the Family Involved

Let every member of the family have input into what experiences they would like to call family traditions. Not only will it help everyone to feel as though they’re a part of the process, but it’ll also help clue you in on what’s really special to your partner or your kiddos.

Start Small

This isn’t a sprint, but rather a marathon (in the best possible way). If you want to start a holiday tradition of making Christmas cookies, begin by making one or two types instead of going big with 10 varieties right out of the gate. 

Maybe make sugar cookies and let the kids decorate them. Then over time, if you want to add on a variety or two that’s great. It will likely evolve naturally over time, and that’s totally ok.

Remember, traditions are meant to be enjoyed – they shouldn’t be a chore that you dread each holiday season! 

Holiday Tradition Ideas to Inspire You

Not sure what constitutes a family tradition? Here are some ideas to inspire you as you consider how to begin.

Put Up Decorations

Hanging the holiday lights and decorating the Christmas tree is a festive activity that many families (including mine) enjoy doing together. Each year we love pulling out the ornaments and reminiscing about each one. 

Maybe your family would enjoy going to the forest and cutting down a fresh Christmas tree or going to the tree farm to find that perfect tree for your house. Or maybe your family likes putting up Christmas lights and oversized decorative candy canes around the outside of your home, either way, decorations are a great holiday tradition for your family to take part in.

Watch a Holiday Movie How To Start A Holiday Tradition

Turn on How the Grinch Who Stole Christmas, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, or The Polar Express (on Christmas Eve, perhaps?) and cuddle up with each other to watch while sipping hot cocoa. It’s a simple tradition to start, but it’s truly the stuff of which memories are made.

Build a Gingerbread House

Let your creativity soar and enjoy more than a laugh or two as you make and decorate gingerbread houses. You could even turn this one into a fun contest and give a small prize to the winner! You don’t need to spend a lot of money to make them, and you could even have this be a tradition for the night before Christmas.

Cook the Holiday Meals TogetherHow To Start A Holiday Tradition

There’s no reason for one person to do all the cooking – it’s a huge job! Many hands make light work, as they say, and cooking together is a very bonding experience.

Drive Around to Look at Holiday Lights

My kids start begging to do this before Thanksgiving even passes. We drive around neighborhoods and look at the displays as we play Christmas music on the radio. It’s so much fun for the whole family – especially when we find a house that has light displays synchronized with music!

Do an Advent Calendar

Each year we have an advent calendar and each child takes turns being the one to do at night before bed. They can keep track of whose turn it is better than I can!

Matching Family Pajamas

One cute idea is to get new matching pjs each year that the kids get to unwrap on Christmas Eve and then everyone spends Christmas morning unwrapping presents (and taking pictures) in their matching pjs.

Give to Others

The holiday season is about giving, right? You can give your time, your talents, or your money. Maybe you donate food to your local food bank, adopt a family and buy and wrap presents for them, craft holiday cards for your friends and family, or simply give your neighbor a DIY ornament or a tin of homemade cookies.

Start a Holiday Tradition for Any Holiday

Family traditions don’t need to just apply to the holiday season of Thanksgiving and Christmas. You can have holiday traditions that your family does for other holidays such as: 

  • eating heart-shaped pancakes on Valentine’s Day
  • wearing green on St. Patrick’s Day
  • hunting for Easter eggs on Easter 
  • sharing stories of gratitude on Thanksgiving

The key to family traditions isn’t really what you do but rather that you do them – together.

If you’re wondering how to start a holiday tradition with your family this holiday season, I hope this post showed you that it’s easier to do than you think and gave you some inspiration to just go do it!

15 Fun and Frugal Christmas Traditions to Start this Year

15 Fun and Frugal Christmas Traditions to Start this Year

Christmas is not just about hosting fancy Christmas dinners and gifting, it’s also about spending and cherishing magical moments with your loved ones. It’s a season of merriness and togetherness.

Friends and family members come together to have an enjoyable and memorable time – which of course calls for family Christmas traditions that are not only fun but also frugal, and economical so they do not cause you financial stress and disappointment in the end. So, if you have run out of ideas, or have been following boring and expensive Christmas traditions, it’s time to make a change. In fact, I’ve got a list of interesting and frugal Christmas traditions you can try this year.

15 fun and frugal Christmas traditions to start this year

1. Have a special Holiday BreakfastFun and Frugal Christmas Traditions

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but on Christmas, it has to be extra special. You can make some tempting Christmas tree waffles or Santa-hat-shaped cupcakes – basically, any lip-smacking food that goes with the Christmas theme.

2. Witness the beauty of Holiday lights

Probably the most beautiful part of Christmas is the lights. It’s a beautiful vista to see the streets decked up with sparkling Christmas lights. So, if your city happens to have a tree lighting ceremony too, go for a walk with your family to be mesmerized by the décor.

As a family, we always go to this one neighborhood where every house decorates. It’s not a secret because from Thanksgiving on until Christmas, you can usually find a line of cars, and more people walking to see the beautiful lights. The girls love going, and Steve and I enjoy looking at the amazing things people come up with.

3. Do Baking sessions togetherFun and Frugal Christmas Traditions

Not only is it fun to eat those yummy baked dishes, but it is equally fun to prepare them. Thus, baking Christmas delicacies can be a great tradition to do with the family. It’s a great opportunity to bond and share some laughs.

Every year, the girls’ GiGi (Great Grandma) bakes a ton of different cookies to give to people (and to leave out for Santa Claus). I always ask her to let the girls help because it’s a great memory, and I also secretly hope she gives me all of her recipes someday!

4. Get crafty together

From Christmas decorations to holiday cards, Christmas can bring out that crafty side of you on the horizon. Thus, it might not be a bad idea to do some crafts together to create your own Christmas essentials. Try making some homemade Christmas cards, fun and artsy letters to Santa, an Advent calendar, or even stocking stuffer Christmas gifts!

5. Sing Christmas Carols

What’s Christmas without carols, right? Besides, it’s always fun to sing your favorite Christmas songs with family and friends. If youChristmas house lights happen to have an instrument player among you, it can be a cherry on top.

6. Do Bonfires

The magic of warm bonfires on a cold wintery Christmas night! That’s pure joy, isn’t it? If you agree, then you can consider having a bonfire session with your family. You can sing, dance, and share some laughs and marshmallows over it.

7. Do something kind for the needy

You might have a fun and joyous Christmas because you’re privileged. But not everyone is. Thus, you can consider sharing your joy with others (Because Christmas is all about it). Give something out – from food to blankets, to anything that can do to spread a smile on a few faces.

Growing up, I was one of the needy families. We always got gifts delivered from the Fire Station and sometimes food. I remember during Thanksgiving and Christmas time, the local radio station would run a giveaway where you had to be the certain caller after the sound and pick the right “door” for a turkey or a Christmas tree. My Mom would always call in because we couldn’t afford the turkey or tree, yet most years, we always had them because she had won.

8. Practice Christmas affirmations

If you happen to witness the magic of affirmations and are happy with how it has changed your outlook and life, don’t hesitate to practice affirmations on Christmas as well.

Here are some you can practice
– “I am a light that shines in the darkness, and I will not be hidden.”Fun and Frugal Christmas Traditions to Start this Year
– “Today I choose peace over anxiety, joy over fear.”

9. Enjoy a Poker night

If you’re a poker fan, Christmas is the time to hang out with your gang over a game. You can order Pizza or make something Christmas-themed to make the night special.

10. Have a Movie night

If you and your loved ones happen to be movie buffs – what better way is there to enjoy the night? Pick out a bag of popcorn, and play a Christmas-themed movie for a magical Christmas Eve. You don’t have to wait for Christmas Eve on this one. Once the Christmas movie night gets going, that’s what we typically watch on the weekends as a family. We love National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, Elf, and Home Alone, and always try to watch A Christmas Story on Christmas Eve or Christmas Morning. Another thing we watch is the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade andpopcorn movie night the Rose Parade – they seem to kick off and end the holiday season so well.

11. Do a Secret Santa

Picking gifts for everybody might be financially challenging. To escape the trouble, you can play a game of Secret Santa. In Secret Santa, every person picks a gift for one person in the group. In some instances, the identity of the gift giver stays unknown and the receiver has to guess it. Secret Santas tend to have a low price limit as well. Gifts like Christmas books for children, or even a fancy box of hot cocoa would work!

12. Do a white elephant

The white elephant is a fun gift-exchange game played within a group – wherein everybody has to bring a gift.Holiday cookie making All the gifts are then collected, and players have to sit in circles. The first player then has to open the gift, while the next player has the option either to open a new gift or steal the one that has already been opened by a person. Here are all the rules of the game.

Fun fact — White Elephant will always hold a special place in our family because Steve proposed to me at the end of our White Elephant game in 2014 with all the family around us! It was so special and unexpected!

13. Make a Snowman

If you happen to fall in love with snow every winter, snowman-making is another fun and free Christmas tradition you can indulge in, especially with your kids. You can make a snowman together, and dress it like Santa to match the Christmas vibes.

14. Do camping in the backyard

You don’t have to go to faraway forests to camp when you can do it in your yard. It will be much more hygienic than traditional camping – if hygiene has always been your concern.

15. Have a barbeque night

What’s not to love about Barbeque nights? You can jam to some Christmas music, dance your heart out, and let it be a barbeque night you won’t be able to forget. Well, I’m done, but with these many fun and frugal options, I hope your Christmas becomes a memorable one.

Which ones would you pick to do with your loved ones?

When To Hire A Property Manager

When To Hire A Property Manager

Managing a property can be a rewarding investment, but it also demands significant time, effort, and expertise. From dealing with vacant units and screening tenants to overseeing maintenance and maximizing profitability, the responsibilities can quickly become overwhelming, especially when you own multiple properties. While hiring a property manager may come with a cost, knowing the right time to bring in professional help can greatly benefit your business. In this post, we will guide you through the signs indicating when it’s time to hire a property manager, the reasons to consider, and how to find the right one for your investment property.

When To Hire A Property Manager

1. You have too many properties

As your real estate portfolio grows, managing all the properties on your own becomes increasingly challenging. Handling the day-to-day tasks for multipleWhen To Hire A Property Manager listings, such as advertising, tenant screening, rent collection, and addressing maintenance issues, can drain your energy and hinder your ability to focus on strategic growth. Hiring a property manager can ensure each property receives the attention it deserves, while you have more time to expand your business and explore new investment opportunities.

2. You don’t live near the property

If your investment property is located far away from your primary residence, the logistical difficulties can make effective management difficult. Being physically present for routine inspections, maintenance, and responding promptly to tenant needs becomes impractical. A professional property manager who is local to the area can act as your eyes and ears, handling all on-site responsibilities, and providing peace of mind knowing that your property is in capable hands.

3. Limited experience in managing properties

Managing rental properties requires knowledge of landlord-tenant laws, market trends, and effective property management practices. Without sufficient experience, you may encounter challenges in setting the right rental rates, finding reliable tenants, and handling legal matters. A property manager brings their expertise to the table, ensuring you navigate the complexities of rental management successfully while avoiding costly mistakes.

4. Business slowing down or expanding

If you notice your business slowing down or experiencing significant growth, it might be time to consider hiring a property manager. A slowdown may indicate that you’re unable to dedicate enough time to your properties, leading to increased vacancy rates and reduced cash flow. Conversely, rapid expansion can quickly overwhelm your capacity to handle day-to-day operations. A property manager can optimize your rental management processes, stabilize your business during slower periods, and efficiently scale your operations during growth phases.

Related: 10 Best Airbnb Host Tips

Why Hire A Property Manager

1. Efficient tenant management

One of the primary roles of a property manager is to handle tenant-related matters. From finding the right tenants through effective screening andWhen To Hire A Property Manager background checks to addressing their concerns promptly, property managers ensure a smooth tenant experience. Their expertise in managing tenant relationships helps minimize tenant turnover and maximize occupancy rates, ultimately boosting your rental income.

2. Setting the right rental rates

Determining appropriate rental rates is crucial for attracting tenants while maximizing profitability. Property managers have a deep understanding of the local market and can conduct thorough market analyses to set competitive rental prices. By optimizing your rental rates, they can help you attract quality tenants, minimize vacancies, and maximize your return on investment.

3. Timely rent collection

Collecting rent on time is vital for maintaining a positive cash flow and minimizing financial strain. Property managers have established systems and procedures in place to ensure rent is collected promptly, reducing the risk of late or missed payments. Their efficient rent collection practices contribute to consistent cash flow, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your investment.

4. Effective marketing and advertising

To minimize vacancy periods, your property needs to be marketed effectively. Property managers have extensive experience in creating compelling property listings, utilizing various advertising channels, and showcasing your investment property’s best features. Their expertise in marketing and advertising attractsHow To Hire A Property Manager a wider pool of potential tenants, reducing vacancy rates and ensuring a steady stream of rental income.

How To Hire A Property Manager

1. Learn the basics of property management

Before hiring a property manager, educate yourself about the fundamentals of property management. Understanding key terms, industry standards, and legal obligations will help you make informed decisions and effectively communicate with potential property managers.

2. Join local real estate associations

Engaging with local real estate associations can provide valuable networking opportunities and access to a pool of experienced property managers. Attend industry events, participate in workshops, and seek recommendations from other landlords to find reliable professionals.

3. Ask for references and check qualifications

When considering property management candidates, request references from their previous clients and follow up with those references to gauge their satisfaction levels. Additionally, verify the property manager’s qualifications, certifications, and licenses to ensure they meet the necessary industry standards.

4. List your expectations

Clearly define your expectations and requirements for a property manager. This includes the services you expect them to handle, communicationrental property management preferences, financial reporting, and any specific expertise you require. Outlining your expectations from the beginning will help you find a property manager who aligns with your goals.

5. Ask questions during the interview

During the interview process, ask relevant questions to assess the property manager’s experience, knowledge, and approach to property management. Inquire about their tenant screening process, strategies for handling maintenance issues, and their method for maximizing profitability. Asking insightful questions will help you evaluate their suitability for managing your investment property.

Managing a rental property can be a demanding and time-consuming endeavor, especially when you own multiple properties or lack proximity to your investments. By hiring a professional property manager, you can delegate the day-to-day responsibilities, ensure effective tenant management, set appropriate rental rates, and benefit from their expertise in marketing and advertising. Remember to learn the basics of property management, seek recommendations, thoroughly check qualifications, and communicate your expectations clearly when selecting a property manager. Investing in a reliable property manager can ultimately save you time, money, and energy while allowing your investment properties to thrive.

Healthy Ways to Manage Stress and Improve Work-Life Balance

Healthy Ways to Manage Stress and Improve Work-Life Balance

Are you struggling to find a work-life balance? Do you feel like you’re always stressed out and don’t have enough time for yourself? If so, you’re not alone. A lot of people are struggling with this issue. However, there are some things that you can do to manage stress and improve your work-life balance. 9 to 5 life and peace don’t go hand in hand for some people.

There’s a load on your shoulders, hectic commuting, and no time for yourself. On top of that, the stress is so much that every day you’d either wish to go to the mountains or just quit your job altogether. But neither of them is feasible for individuals who do not have the livelihood, or for those who do not want to give up just yet. 

So the only option left in the scenario is to manage your stress in healthy ways and improve your work-life balance.

But how do you do that? Is it even possible? Why not! This article is going to brief you on all the know-how. 

Healthy Ways to Manage Stress and Improve Work-Life Balance

Benefits Of Managing Stress In A Healthy Way

Keeping your personal life separate from your work life is no easy task. Work and personal duties can easily pile up and cause high stress levels, and even chronic stress. Although it might take some adjusting to achieve a work-life balance and to learn how to manage stress healthily, here are the benefits you will enjoy when you do:

  • Better sleep, focus, mental strength, attention span, and productivity
  • Improved relationships with friends, family, and coworkers
  • Better work/home balance and improved problem-solving skills
  • Less muscle tension and stress build up throughout the body
  • Improved mood and outlook on life
  • Lower blood pressure, better digestion, and improved immune system

10 healthy ways to manage stress and improve work-life balance

1. Exercise

Healthy Ways to Manage Stress and Improve Work-Life BalanceThis might be your least favorite option if you are a couch potato, yet it is one of the most effective ones.

Exercising releases happy hormones like Dopamine which keeps your mood in balance by drastically reducing stress and anxiety. This past year, my saving grace has been exercised. I wouldn’t have maintained my sanity with everything going on, and all the stresses of the world. If you are part of the Peloton family, make sure to find me on the leaderboard, #bettercauseLnF.

In addition to that, exercising can fill you with energy. Your focus will improve, and you will be able to do your work much faster, not to mention the quality of output will also improve. It is my “me time,” my personal time that everyone knows not to bug me. Sometimes that’s all I get in the hectic day of work and home life.

2. Take regular breaks from work

If you drag yourself to work for hours at a stretch then, stress would be inevitable for you. Thus create a balance, including regular breaks to catch up on life. This includes throughout the regular work day, and by taking advantage of your vacation days & PTO.

Even a 15-20 minute break after 2 hours of continuous work is enough is enough to clear that mental clutter. Catch up with colleagues, take a short walk, or play pool if your workplace is blessed with it. Do whatever that diminishes your stress. But don’t spend these minutes on your phone because apart from your mind, your eyes need rest too.

A good work-life balance helps to ensure you don’t burn out too quickly as well. When you have a poor work life balance, you can tire more easily, get stressed even more, and get angry at the people you care most about. Your mental health and your support system will both suffer. 

The best tip for ensuring I work efficiently as well as taking a break is by using a timer. I set it for a specific time and then when the timer goes off I know it’s time to get up. My favorite way to take a break is to go outside to get some fresh air and some sun on my face.

3. Have your me-time

When was the last time you spent time with yourself? If it has been a while, then what are you waitingHealthy Ways to Manage Stress and Improve Work-Life Balance for? Me-time is the best way when it comes to restoring your lost peace.

You might have your idea of me-time, be it reading a book or simply eating your favorite delicacy while watching Netflix. It could also be as simple as spending a few minutes in the bath by yourself or spending a little extra time meditating or being quiet before bed.

To start with it, you can use your weekends or when you come back home. As I said above, physical activity is my me-time, but I also meal prep foods and like to make chocolate molds and arts and crafts in the morning hours before anyone else is awake. It’s all about having a healthy lifestyle for me because balance is so important to keeping a healthy work-life balance. 

4. Disconnect from technology

Nowadays, technology can be both a blessing and a curse. While it allows us to work remotely and stay connected with our colleagues, it can also make it challenging to create boundaries. It can feel like we need to be available and online 24/7, leading to feelings of burnout and exhaustion. Taking some time to unplug from technology, even if it’s just for a short while, can be an excellent strategy for reducing stress and improving your physical health. By disconnecting, you can better focus on the present moment and recharge for whatever lies ahead.

5. Be more social

We have friends and family who are our happy pills. When you feel that work stress would be the death of you, dial them up or go to meet them. You would feel much better. It also goes the other way – if you have people who are bringing you down, make sure to consider this when you look at how much time you spend with them. If they don’t bring you happiness but only stress, it’s really not helping you. 

If work keeps you bonded, then you can talk to them on the phone during your break times. Keeping in touch with them would help you create a firm balance between work and life, so make sure you don’t skip this. If you are meeting people in person, be sure to be present. Don’t check your emails when they are speaking or when you are out with friends and family. Quality time is more important than just going through the motions. Manage your time efficiently so you can enjoy the time between work and family. 

6. Connect with loved ones

When working remotely or spending long hours a week at work, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed and even isolated. Connecting with loved ones can be a great way to reduce stress and improve your mental health. Taking time to interact with your family, friends, or significant other can help you feel grounded and supported. This connection can also help you achieve a healthy work-life balance by reminding you of the importance of stepping away from work and prioritizing relationships.

7. Manage your workload

When there’s a heavy workload, one is bound to get stressed. So the key to managing your stress is to manage your workload. You can do so by making every day count. What I mean is, start today instead of just getting started when your deadlines are at an arm’s length. 

In other words, set daily targets. Make a list of the tasks, divide them by the number of days you got, and what you would have your daily targets. In this regard, prioritizing can help too. Start with the most demanding tasks first, and go all the way down to the less demanding ones. Your time and energy are some of the only things you have that aren’t renewable (energy is but it takes time to get there) so be mindful of things you say “YES” to doing, especially if they may not bring you happiness. 

8. Learn to say no

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s crucial to identify what’s causing these feelings and determine what elements of your job are draining you. You may find that you’re taking on too much and spreading yourself too thin. Learning to say no can help you prioritize your workload and manage your stress. It can be challenging to turn down opportunities or delegate tasks, but it’s necessary to achieve a healthy work-life balance. Saying no allows you to focus on the most critical areas of your life and avoid burnout.

9. Take up your hobbies

Did you have some hobbies that you were forced to abandon due to work? If yes, then pleaseHow to Improve Work-Life Balance consider getting started with them again. 

Your hobbies are your #1 stress busters. They bring you peace and solace and make you feel that you have a life other than work. You need that the most right now. If you are thinking you don’t have time, or they are a waste of time, start small. If you start with small increments each day, you can gradually increase as you make more time and notice how your stress falls away. 

10. Set boundaries

Your colleagues and boss will keep on piling files at your desk if you don’t speak your mind. Tell them that you cannot take up more work because you have tons of it already. While you are at it, be more polite. If your employer and colleagues are understanding enough they will understand.

It’s also important to have the boundaries at home. You don’t want to have all of the boundaries at work and then come home and be expected to do all of the work and take care of the kids. Be upfront and honest with your spouse and your kids and let them know you need space and where you can and can’t do things. 

I hope these ways help you manage the stress and achieve a healthy work-life balance. Let us know how these tips work for you in our comment section.

Guide to Christmas Markets in AZ: Festive Delights and Local Treasures

Guide to Christmas Markets in AZ: Festive Delights and Local Treasures

As Christmas approaches, the holiday rush starts to seep into our lives. The most wonderful time of the year can lose some of its magic when faced with long lines and crowds at big chain malls. Luckily, there’s a delightful alternative – Christmas markets. These vibrant holiday markets offer a respite from the hustle and bustle, presenting a wide array of creative offerings, handmade goods, and festive treats. In this guide, we’ll explore the Christmas markets inGuide to Christmas Markets in AZ Arizona, highlighting their opening dates and other essential details, so you can embark on a memorable and stress-free shopping experience while supporting local artisans, vendors, and makers.

Christmas Market in AZ: Your Ultimate Guide to Festive Bliss

Phoenix:

1. Old Brick House Vintage Market:

Location: 202 W. Main Street, Mesa, AZ 85201

Opening Dates: November 24 – December 23, 2023

Get Directions: [Click here for directions]

Step into the Old Brick House Vintage Market and immerse yourself in a wonderland of antique treasures, handmade crafts, and unique holiday decorations. This market captures the charm of yesteryears, offering a nostalgic shopping experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to find one-of-a-kind gifts for your lovedGuide to Christmas Markets in AZ ones while supporting local vendors.

2. Highland Yard:

Location: 1509 N. Arizona Avenue, Chandler, AZ 85225

Opening Dates: November 10 – December 31, 2023

Get Directions: [Click here for directions]

Highland Yard is a Christmas market that blends vintage flair with contemporary craftsmanship. With a mix of artisans, designers, and curators, you’ll discover unique home decor, handmade jewelry, and stylish accessories. Embrace the holiday spirit as you stroll through this enchanting market, delighting in its charming atmosphere.

Tucson:Arizona Christmas Markets guide

3. Fourth Avenue Winter Street Fair:

Location: 340 N. 4th Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85705

Opening Dates: December 8 – December 10, 2023

Get Directions: [Click here for directions]

The Fourth Avenue Winter Street Fair offers a vibrant celebration of the holiday season. Explore a bustling marketplace featuring local artisans, food vendors, and live performances. From handmade crafts to delicious treats, this street fair is a treasure trove of unique gifts and festive delights. Make sure to visit during the evening for the magical glow of holiday lights.

Flagstaff:

4. Winter Art Market at the Coconino Center for the Arts:local Arizona holiday market

Location: 2300 N. Fort Valley Road, Flagstaff, AZ 86001

Opening Dates: November 25 – December 17, 2023

Get Directions: [Click here for directions]

Discover the Winter Art Market nestled in the charming city of Flagstaff. Held at the Coconino Center for the Arts, this market showcases the work of talented local artists and craftspeople. From paintings to pottery and jewelry to textiles, you’ll find an impressive selection of handcrafted items. Take a leisurely stroll through the market, appreciating the creativity and skill on display.

Related: 15 Effortless Ways to plan a Fun and Frugal Christmas on a Budget

Scottsdale:

5. Scottsdale ArtWalk – Christmas Market Edition:

Location: Main Street, Old Town Scottsdale, AZ 85251

Opening Dates: Every Thursday evening in December

Get Directions: [Click here for directions]

Combine the joys of an art walk with the festive spirit of a Christmas market during the Scottsdale ArtWalk – Christmas Market Edition. Meander through theAJ holiday style streets of Old Town Scottsdale, where local artists and vendors gather to showcase their work. This lively event invites you to immerse yourself in the creative energy of the community while searching for unique holiday gifts.

Escape the chaos of chain malls and embrace the magic of Christmas markets in Arizona. These delightful gatherings offer a wealth of handmade treasures, delectable treats, and festive experiences. By supporting local artisans and vendors, you not only find extraordinary gifts but also contribute to the flourishing artistic community in your area. Whether you’re in Phoenix, Tucson, Flagstaff, or Scottsdale, there’s a Christmas market waiting to enchant you with its unique offerings. So, grab your shopping list, don your holiday spirit, and embark on a merry adventure through the wonderful world of Arizona’s Christmas markets.

Note: Opening dates and details mentioned above are for the year 2023. Please check for updated information closer to the time of your visit.