The Town of Marana will host its annual Holiday Festival and Christmas Tree Lighting on Saturday, December 2 from 3:00-8:00 p.m. at the Marana Municipal Complex Roundabout.
The event has grown from its humble beginnings, and over 6,000 people are expected to attend this year’s edition. The event moved from the MMC courtyard to the roundabout in 2015 to accommodate the growth and open up the event for a variety of new activities, as well as giving ample space to old favorites.
The centerpiece of the event is the Christmas Tree lighting itself. Not only is the 40-foot Christmas Tree illuminated, but it is part of a synchronized, musical light show that incorporates the surrounding trees. The lighting and first performance of the show will take place at 6:00 p.m. and is the biggest in Southern Arizona. The light show is not a one-time event, it will run every hour from 5 to 9 p.m. beginning Monday, Dec. 4 until New Year’s Eve.
Snow is back at Holiday Festival. After a successful debut last year, the snow globe returns for kids to play in. Due to the popularity, this year 20 tons will be brought in for children to play in, sled on, and make snow men with. It is our way to bring a little bit of a winter wonderland to the Marana.
Santa and Mrs. Claus return to Marana. Always one of the more popular features of the event, The jolly couple will make their arrival and then be on hand to listen to the Christmas wishes of all the good boys and girls. Make sure you are on the “good” list!
The roundabout will again host the stage and it will feature a variety of entertainment. Nine acts from the community will perform, including dancers, singers, and musicians of all ages.
A wide selection of food vendors will be on hand to satisfy any craving. Nearly 20 food vendors will be on hand, serving everything from ice cream to barbecue to French pastry to authentic Hawaiian fare.
20 non-food vendors will also be on hand. Some will be selling their wares, while others will be trying raise awareness for their non-profit organizations. The Elf Flea Market will be open for business. You will find gently used and beautifully hand crafted holiday decor at reasonable prices. All items are donated and funds benefit the Community Food Bank in Marana. The Humane Society of Southern Arizona will join Marana’s Animal Services Division, and will have some furry friends for adoption.
Musical Acts:
3:00 - 3:20: Silver Steppers
3:30 - 3:50: The Thornydale Songbirds
4:00 - 4:20: Estes Elementary Ukulele Club
4:30 - 4:50: Open Doors Community School
5:00 - 5:20: Marana High School Chamber Orchestra
5:30 - 5:50: Pointe of Grace Dancers
6:00 - 6:20: Christmas Tree Light Show
6:30 - 6:50: Mountain View Jazz Band
7:00 - 7:20: ShowBiz Academy of Dance
7:30 - 7:50: Marana High School Symphonic Choir
Food Vendors
Bugaloo's Soft Serve
Cafe Fancais
Ciao Down
Cody Coyote Kettle Corn
Dickey's Barbecue Pit
I & C Kitchen
Jakesdonuts and Treat Trolley
La Garrafa
Marana Heritage Conservancy
Meatball Madness
Mona's Frybread
Mutt's Restaurant
Red Rock Ice Cream Company
Ro's Rollout American Comfort Food
Road Running Wood Fired Pizza
Ry's Snacks
Sonoran Mexican Cuisine
Sugar & Spice
Taste of Island Paradise AZ
