By Shoshana Dubnow
In 2010, Christmas at the Princess consisted of a tree and nothing else. Nine years later, the festival has dozens of attractions and greets more than 250,000 people each holiday season.
This year, Christmas at the Princess is mixing the old with the new by continuing traditions every family adores and adding even more events that are sure to please guests of all ages.
“Our goal was to create a place for families and neighbors to gather and make holiday memories,” said Jack Miller, the General Manager of the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, reflecting on the original idea behind the festival. That goal still remains today.
Whether you and your loved ones are planning on spending an afternoon or a whole week at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess this holiday season, there is sure to be something that will entertain a group of all ages.
The festival runs from November 20th through December 31, 2018. Interested in checking it out, but not sure which attractions would appeal to you the most? Check out some of our favorites below.
Santa Suite Overnight VIP Experience
For those families dreaming of a personal visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus, the Santa Suite is the perfect option. The room comes with a full-size Christmas tree, personalized stockings for each guest, Christmas tea and hot cocoa, and sweet treats from Mrs. Claus. The suite experience includes a spot at a private ice rink-side fire pit, a family photo shoot, and VIP access to all rides and attractions.
Ice Skating
It’s back! Every evening, anyone from the public is invited to experience skating on the rink made of real ice. Only in Arizona can you ice skate while being surrounded by cacti and a starry sky, so take advantage while you can. The price is $20 per person, or an extra $25 per person if you need to borrow skates.
S’moresland
Every child’s dream can likely be fulfilled in the magic of S’moresland. This adventure includes everything from roasting marshmallows around a campfire in a Christmas Tree Forest, taking a spin on the Christmas Carousel and Frosty’s Ferris Wheel, or sliding down the Polar Glacier Slide. Tickets are $25 per person and can be purchased at various locations throughout the festival.
Dining and Drinking
When it comes to having a satisfying meal or grabbing drinks with friends, Christmas at the Princess offers no shortage of options. To highlight a few, Bourbon Steak, voted one of the best steakhouses in Arizona, offers delicious cuts of beef that can be accompanied by handcrafted cocktails or a selection from their extensive wine list. If you’re looking for authentic Mexican food, La Hacienda is the place for you. The chefs there put a unique spin on several classics, in addition to a tequila bar that is sure to wow. Too invested in the days’ festivities to sit down for a drink? Several Kringle’s Kup concession stands are stationed throughout the festival, offering everything from hot chocolate to margaritas.
Well and Being Spa
Need a reason to escape? The Well and Being Spa can give you several! Choose from a deep-cleansing facial, a cinnamon infused spa, or a moisturizing body treatment. There are also manicures and pedicures available for adults and their “little princesses.” The spa offers gift cards that can be mailed or picked up curbside if you know someone who would enjoy any of these services and want to provide them the gift of relaxation.
To find out more about how to make Christmas at the Princess part of your holiday celebrations, visit their website or give them a call at (480) 585-4848.
Learn more about Christmas at the Princess here.
