Make Merry Memories at Marana's Holiday Festival!

Published on November 14, 2024

MARANA – The Town of Marana is preparing to kick off the festive season with its annual Holiday Festival & Christmas Tree Lighting! The Signature Event returns to the Marana Municipal Complex on Saturday, December 7, 2024 from 2-9 p.m.

In partnership with Cemex, the highlight of the evening will be the lighting of the Town’s spectacular 45-foot Christmas tree, adorned with 100,000 thousand sparkling lights and ornaments. An additional 100,000 lights twinkle from landscape trees in the MMC Plaza and together with the Christmas tree, are choreographed to holiday music for an immersive and magical show! The tree lighting ceremony will take place at 6 p.m. with an encore at 8:30 p.m., marking the official start of the holiday festivities! 

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

• Tree Lighting Ceremony at 6PM and Encore at 8:30PM: Join us as we illuminate the 45-foot tree in a dazzling display of musical holiday spirit.
• Marana Food Bank: Guests are encouraged to bring a can or box of non-perishable food to donate to the Marana Food Bank & Community Resource Center.  All donations stay in Marana!
• Live Entertainment: Enjoy performances by local choirs, bands, dance groups on TWO stages. Close the night out with a special concert from nationally recognized and award-winning band, Znora, from 6:30-8:30PM on Santa’s Stage. 
• Family Fun: All ages can enjoy Free Photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus, a Meet & Greet with the Grinch himself, free ornament crafting at the Creation Station, jumping castles, 12ft public art project, Photo Booth, glitter tattoos, and more.
• Mistletoe Market: Shop for unique gifts and treats from a curated selection of local artisans and vendors.
• Food Vendors: Over 30 food trucks and vendors will be offering a diverse and delicious selection of foods for guests to try.

*New This Year*

• Guest Shuttles:  Parking is limited in the event vicinity so the Town will offer TWO shuttles running continuously from offsite locations nearby to the event from 2-10 p.m.  Shuttle Stop One departs from Marana Middle School (11285 W Grier Rd, Marana, AZ 85653) and Shuttle Stop Two departs from Gladden Farms Community Park (12270 N Heritage Park Dr Marana, AZ 85653)

“This year’s festival promises to be our most magical yet,” said Shelby Scheer, Special Events Supervisor. “We can’t wait to bring the community together to celebrate the joy and wonder of the holiday season.”

Marana’s Holiday Festival is FREE and open to the public. Bring your friends, family, and holiday cheer as we light up the night and create merry memories in Marana!

For more information about Marana’s Holiday Festival and Christmas Tree Lighting, including performance schedules, vendors, and event map, visit MaranaAZ.gov/events or follow Marana Parks & Recreation at @MaranaParksRec on social media platforms.