Every winter, the Grand Canyon Railway brings a beloved holiday story to life aboard the Polar Express, turning a nighttime train ride into a memory families talk about for years. As the train pulls out of the Williams Depot, passengers settle into warm seats with hot chocolate and chocolate chip cookies, listening as the classic tale is read aloud. Outside the windows, the high-desert sky darkens, lights blur past, and children whisper about what might be waiting at the “North Pole.”

The ride is timed perfectly for winter sunsets. With departures at 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., the landscape is dark enough for the glowing displays to stand out. The journey lasts just over 90 minutes round-trip, long enough to feel immersive but still relaxed and family-friendly. When the train finally reaches its destination, Santa and his reindeer are waiting, and the moment lights up every face on board.

Running through November and December, this is the centerpiece of Christmas travel in the region. For anyone searching for a Christmas train in Williams AZ, this is the one to book early.

Once the sun goes down, Williams’ historic Route 66 takes on a warm golden glow for the Christmas Parade of Lights, an annual tradition that brings residents, travelers, and cocoa-filled kids together along the sidewalks. This year’s theme, Christmas Through the Eyes of a Child, sets the tone for a parade filled with color, imagination, and joyful noise.

Floats drift down the street in glowing displays, school groups sing carols, and local businesses join in with festive decor. The atmosphere is cheerful in the way only a true small-town celebration can be, neighbors waving, families settling into lawn chairs, and children calling out when their favorite float appears.

The parade leads straight into the Tree Lighting Ceremony. With holiday lights strung across downtown and crowds gathered in good spirits, it is one of the most heartwarming parts of Williams AZ Christmas.

Right after the parade, the town gathers for the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, a moment that officially marks the season in Williams. Families settle beneath the branches, music carries through the crisp air, and excitement builds as everyone waits for the lights to glow.

When the tree finally comes to life, the entire plaza brightens with a tall, brilliant display surrounded by smiling faces. Santa stays afterward for photos, and the scene feels like the best kind of small-town Christmas evening, simple and joyful.

Before the parade and tree lighting begin, Williams starts the day with Santaland, a cheerful festival that transforms downtown into a winter playground. Santa and Mrs. Claus greet children, volunteers run holiday activity stations, and photo spots and games keep families moving from one festive moment to the next.

Craft tables, treats, and coastal touches make the whole town feel dipped in seasonal magic. Once Santaland wraps up, visitors wander along Route 66 to shop, enjoy warm drinks, or grab a meal before the nighttime celebrations begin. It is a full day of holiday fun that shows how wholeheartedly Williams embraces the season.

Throughout November and December, the Outdoor Ice Skating Rink near the Williams Recreation Center adds even more winter charm. Families glide beneath twinkling lights, beginners shuffle carefully, and seasoned skaters trace gentle loops beneath the night sky.

The open-air setting makes the rink feel festive and inviting, especially for families looking for Christmas events in Williams AZ that go beyond parades and train rides. Warm layers and a little patience are all you need.

After a night filled with lights, music, and crisp December air, it feels good to return to a place that is warm and welcoming. Trailborn Grand Canyon sits just minutes from the center of Williams, making it easy to enjoy every holiday event without rushing or long drives.

Inside, the atmosphere is relaxed and comforting. Rooms feel warm and uncluttered, the kind of space where you can peel off winter layers, unwind after a long night out, and wake up refreshed. Miss Kitty’s offers hearty meals and hot drinks that feel especially rewarding after the cold, and the firepits provide a peaceful spot for stargazing. Families appreciate the easy parking and spacious layout, while couples enjoy the calm, cozy feel after festive nights downtown.

It is a friendly, easygoing home base for the holidays, close to the celebrations but peaceful when you are ready to rest.

Christmas in Williams blends small-town warmth with festive events that last all season long, with the Polar Express, Santaland, downtown parades, tree lighting, and nights filled with lights and music. December feels lively and inviting here, especially for families and travelers seeking a relaxed holiday getaway.

Trailborn Grand Canyon sits close to it all, offering a comfortable, welcoming stay after days and nights spent celebrating. If you’re planning a holiday trip to northern Arizona, this is the perfect place to soak up the season.