THINGS TO DO AROUND ARIZONA
Bird Walks in Sedona
Join a naturalist for a guided walk appropriate for beginner and advanced birders. The greatest diversity of bird species can be found in the riparian area next to Oak Creek or along the field behind the visitor center. The Audubon Society has designated Red Rock State Park as part of the Lower Oak Creek Important Birding Area because of the many species that live or visit here.
Details: 9 a.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays in December. Red Rock State Park, 4050 Red Rock Loop Road, Sedona. $7, $4 for ages 7-13. azstateparks.com/red-rock.
North Pole Experience
Visitors are transported through a magic portal to the "North Pole," where they get a behind-the-scenes glimpse at Santa’s workshop. The festively decorated warehouse oozes happiness. When boys and girls are invited to help make toys, it becomes clear the elves have a pretty good gig, even as Santa and Mrs. Claus pitch in. Enjoy a treat in the bakery before spending some oneone-one time with Santa.
Details: 8 a.m.-3:50 p.m. and 4 p.m.-8:40 p.m. through Dec. 24. See website for specific dates. Little America Hotel, 2515 E. Butler Ave., Flagstaff. $39-$65. northpoleexperience.com.
Holiday Sweet Stroll
Here’s one good reason to go holiday shopping: the opportunity to browse as carolers sing. Nothing gets you pumped for spending more than an a cappella version of “Up on the Rooftop.” Shoppers will find unique items, giveaways and discounts. Partake of the treats some merchants are offering in the spirit of the season.
Details: 4-7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21. Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Village, 336 State Route 179, Sedona. Free. 928-282-4838, www.tlaq.com/events.
Riordan Mansion: Special Christmas Twilight Tour
The original 1904 light fixtures with Edison-style bulbs provide a beautiful glow in Riordan Mansion for these evening tours. The tour will focus on the history behind Christmas traditions, and guests will see the Christmas tree and billiards room photo-transparency windows at night. Weather permitting, luminarias will light the grounds. For age 12 and older. Reservations are required. Call 928-779-4395.
Details: 4:30-6 p.m. Saturday-Monday, Dec. 21-23. Riordan Mansion State Historic Park, 409 W. Riordan Road, Flagstaff. $15 per person. azstateparks.com/riordan-mansion.
Introduction to Geocaching
Did you ever wonder about geocaching? It's a high-tech treasure hunt! Join park volunteer Tony for this introduction to geocaching. It includes a handson demonstration.
Details: 9 a.m. Sundays, Dec. 22 and 29. Catalina State Park, 11570 N. Oracle Road, Tucson. $7 per vehicle. azstateparks.com/catalina.
Storytellers at the Smoki Museum
Some of the best ways to learn about people and cultures is through stories. See for yourself at this event in which Native American artists share tales that offer more than plots and characters. You’ll also come away with insight and understanding. As if that weren’t enough, there will be homemade cookies and hot apple cider.
Details: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Friday, Dec. 27. Smoki Museum,147 N. Arizona Ave., Prescott. $7. www.smokimuseum.org.
Geology Walk
Learn about the geology of Catalina State Park with an experienced geologist. You'll find out how the Santa Catalina Mountains formed and what are some of the rocks in the park. The walk takes several hours.
Details: 9 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 29. Catalina State Park, 11570 N. Oracle Road, Tucson. $7 per vehicle. azstateparks.com/catalina.
Victorian Christmas at Fort Verde
Celebrate the holidays with Fort Verde State Historic Park, where the fort is decorated with Victorian-style holiday decorations.
Details: Through Sunday, Jan. 4. Fort Verde State Historic Park, 125 E Hollamon St., Camp Verde. $7, $4 for ages 713. azstateparks.com/fort-verde.