While a white Christmas is off the cards here in Maricopa, there are still plenty of ways to get into the holiday spirit.

Here’s a peek at some super festive events happening around town this weekend.

Johnson Family Annual Christmas House Lighting
Friday, 5:30 p.m.
41339 West Sanders Way

Ring in the holidays by watching an annual Christmas lighting ceremony with a hot cup of cocoa in hand. The Grinch will stop by for photos and attendees are encouraged to participate in a canned food drive.

For more information, visit the Facebook event page for more information.

Santa and Grinch pet photos
Saturday, 11 a.m.
EarthWise Pet, 20924 N. John Wayne Pkwy.

In need of a new family portrait? Don matching sweaters with your four-legged friend to snap a photo with Santa or the Grinch at EarthWise Pet Supply Saturday morning.

Little Whiskers Animal Rescue will host on-site pet adoptions, while games and cookies will be available for the kiddos.

Check the Facebook event page for more information.

Masik Tas Community Celebration
Saturday, 1 p.m.
Old Vaila site, 47673 West Farrell Road

The Ak-Chin Indian Community celebrates its birthday with nearly a month of celebrations. That includes an hours-long community celebration with wood chopping, dance and menudo contests hosted by the Ak-Chin Youth Council.

Desert Sun Performing Arts presents “Sugar Plum Tea”
Saturday, 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Maricopa High School Performing Arts Center, 45012 W. Honeycutt Ave.

Few performances truly say Christmas like The Nutcracker. Students from Desert Sun Performing Arts will perform excerpts from the ballet and the story will be narrated by Ak-Chin Chairman Robert Miguel.

Purchase tickets for the matinee here or for the 6 p.m. show here.

Winter Holiday Concert
Saturday, 3 p.m.
Maricopa Agricultural Center, 37860 W. Smith-Enke Rd.

Maricopa Music Circle’s chamber orchestra will host its annual holiday concert with the Maricopa Chorus and a special guest, classical guitarist Coyote de la Torre. Pieces include a premiere performance of Ave Maria and Carol of the Bells.

For more information and directions, check out the Facebook event page.

Living Nativity Maricopa
Saturday, 5 p.m.
Community of Hope, 45295 W. Honeycutt Ave.

Experience the roots of Christmas with a visit to this living nativity scene. Community of Hope Church has hosted the event with live characters and carolers each year since 2004.

For more information, visit the event’s Facebook page.

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