DECEMBER 2025 8   The Arizona Nutcracker at the Madison Center for the Arts. HAVE AN EVENT YOU'D LIKE FEATURED? Contact editor@arcadianews.com  The Arizona Nutcracker 1 p.m. at the Madison Center for the Arts, 5601 N. 16th St., Phoenix. This is “the only Nutcracker ballet in the nation performed entirely by dancers ages 3-18.” Returning for its 26th anniversary season, audiences will be transported into a world where a nutcracker comes to life, plus falling snow, angels dancing on clouds, over 400 dazzling costumes, and a Christmas tree that grows through the roof of the theater. Tickets start at $45. themadison.org   A Merry-Achi Christmas 6 p.m. at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St. A fifth- generation mariachi musician, Maestro José Hernández and his platinum-selling Mariachi Sol de México will head to Scottsdale to perform various treasured holiday classics and favorites from the mariachi songbook. If you feel like dancing, no one will judge! Tickets start at $50. scottsdaleperformingarts.org Hanukkah Celebration 4:30 p.m. at Soleri Plaza, 4420 N. Scottsdale Road. Part of the annual Scottsdazzle events, families are invited to gather around the larger-than-life menorah and join the Chabad of South Scottsdale for a family-friendly public menorah lighting. There will be lots of music, singing and kids crafts. This event is free. scottsdazzle.com  Las Noches de las Luminarias 5:30 p.m. at Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Pkwy., Phoenix. The gardens will be lit up by over 8,000 hand-lit luminaria bags and thousands of twinkle lights this year. Walk along the trails and be serenaded by live musical entertainment. Grab a cup of cocoa or cider and enjoy the beautiful weather and trails at Desert Botanical Garden. Tickets are $45. dbg.org      Arizona National Livestock Show Times vary; at the Arizona State fairgrounds, 1826 W. McDowell Road, Phoenix. The 2025 Arizona National Livestock Show returns with competitions, education, and family-friendly events celebrating the best of Western heritage and agriculture. From top-tier livestock showcases and ranch rodeos to youth contests in ag mechanics, judging, and public speaking, this annual event offers something for those interested in ranching and rural life. This event is free. aznational.org

HAPPY HOLIDAYS f r o m a l l o f u s at t h e b r o k e r y r e l e n t l e s s ly l o c a l ™ r e a l e s tat e e x p e r t s