Scottsdale is buzzing with all kinds of events—not just holiday ones. See what's out there for you!
Vineyards in the Valley
Experience the incredible Tony Exum Jr live — a powerhouse performer known for his captivating sound and groove. Enjoy hand-crafted cocktails, premium cigars, and the best vibes in Scottsdale. This is the first of Fox Cigar's Soulful Sundays live music series. Location: Fox Cigar Bar (7443 E 6th Ave, Scottsdale, AZ) | Nov. 30, 2025 | 7:30 p.m. | 21+ event | No Cover.
Returning for its highly anticipated second year, Vineyards in the Valley is a wine-tasting event featuring a curated selection of 70+ ultra-premium, highly allocated boutique wineries. Proceeds from the event support Hope for Haiti and its work to provide medical support to women in rural Haiti. Venue: Charro Lodge (Gate A) at the iconic Scottsdale Stadium | Saturday, December 6, from 4 - 7:30 p.m. | $250.
Celebrate Toastique’s Scottsdale grand opening! First 100 guests get $50 reward with $10+ purchase (Must be a Toastique loyalty member). Fresh toasts, smoothies & more! Location: Toastique 7001 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85253 | Saturday, December 6th from 8 AM – 5 PM | Guests can sign up for loyalty by downloading the Toastique app or signing up here.
Break out your most outrageous holiday knit and jingle on over to Optima Kierland Ugly Sweater Holiday Party! There's music, a bartender, a caterer, and a “So Bad It’s Good” sweater showdown. BYO bottle, bring the laughs, and mingle with your neighbors. Location: 7120 E Kierland Blvd Party Room | Saturday, December 6th | 6 p.m. | Free.
Learn about the success of the Cactus Flower’s family business and how their unique design workshop will enable you to create a beautiful holiday centerpiece. Attendees will learn from one of Cactus Flower's talented designers just how to dress a centerpiece so it's full and festive for magical memories around the table. Location: Cactus Flower Florists 10822 N Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale, AZ 85254 | Dec 19 from 3pm to 5pm | $85.
Upcoming🏈
Get ready for a standout winter sports event in Arizona! The 2025 Rate Bowl is the only postseason college football bowl game pitting the Big 12 Conference vs. the Big Ten Conference this season — a rare matchup packed with excitement. Location: Chase Field 401 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, AZ 85004 | December 26, 2025 | 2:30 p.m. | Ticket prices start at $70.
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🧩Game
It's time for another Monday brain teaser!
Last week, one of our Desert Rundown readers got it at 7 seconds. Pressure is real, but let's beat that without dropping the fun. Tap to play!⬇️
Scottsdale’s Must-Visit Holiday Pop-Up Bars
Blitzen’s Bar at the Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa
Scottsdale doesn’t do “subtle” during the holidays — and honestly, that’s part of the charm. Every December, local bars swap desert chic for twinkling lights, elaborate themes, and cocktails that taste like pure holiday magic.
If you’re ready for tinsel, themed drinks, and a whole lot of festive energy, here’s your guide to the best holiday pop-up bars shining bright around Scottsdale.
Address: 7419 E. Indian Plaza, Scottsdale Runs through: January 4
Old Town’s lively 50 Shades goes full Whoville with its annual transformation into 50ville. Expect bold colors, Seuss-like whimsy, and a Grinch-green cocktail that feels straight out of a storybook.
Why go:
Vibrant, playful décor with a Dr. Seuss twist
$1 smash burgers every Thursday
A budget-friendly date-night special on “Mistletoe Mondays”
Walk-ins allowed (reservations still a smart move on weekends)
Address: 4949 E. Lincoln Drive, Scottsdale Runs through: January 02
The Omni’s Oasis Bar becomes Blitzen’s, a shimmering reindeer-inspired escape featuring cocktails curated by acclaimed mixologist Julie Reiner. The vibe is lodge-like, cozy, and upscale — perfect for a holiday night out.
Sip highlights:
The Blitzen — rye whiskey with ginger and apple spice, served inside a Christmas ornament
Oye to the World — a mezcal-tequila blend with hot honey and apricot
Address: 9397 E. Shea Blvd., #115, Scottsdale Runs through: January
Salt + Lime goes all-in on holiday décor. The ceiling becomes a dense canopy of ornaments, ribbon, snowflakes, and lights. It’s festive, colorful, and wonderfully over the top.
Reasons to visit:
Holiday margaritas and dessert-like martinis
Christmas enchiladas topped with red sauce and poblano cream
A 90-minute immersive holiday dining experience
Reservations are required, but walk-ins can join a waitlist.
Address: 7324 E. Indian School Road, Scottsdale Runs: Nov. 28–Dec. 24
The world-famous Miracle pop-up brings its quirky, nostalgic Christmas charm to BLVD. Expect tinsel everywhere, themed glassware, and a cocktail menu that leans fun and festive with a dash of kitsch.
Returning favorites:
Christmapolitan — a sweet-tart cranberry delight
Snowball Old Fashioned — served with its signature ice sphere
New for the season:
Blitzen Barrel, a layered honey-sesame creation with sherry and scotch
Live music fills the room on weekends, and Tuesdays come with a magician for extra sparkle.
Scottsdale’s pop-up bars bring the holiday spirit to life through bold themes, creative cocktails, and immersive décor. Grab a friend, pick a theme that speaks to your festive mood, and enjoy the city at its twinkliest.
Have you spotted a great pop-up we missed? Just hit reply. We’d love to pass your find along to fellow Desert Rundown readers!
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Take care,
The Desert Rundown Team
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