Winter is when Sedona gets interesting. The summer heat gives way to cooler hiking days, festive evenings and a calendar worth planning around: a holiday tree lighting, candlelit courtyards, a red-rock race and an independent film festival.
Here are the events to know from November through February, plus practical tips for fitting a hike or two around them. All dates should be reconfirmed with organizers before travel.
Sedona Winter Events at a Glance
| Date | Event | Where | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 11, 2026 | Veterans Day Tribute | Sedona Heritage Museum | Free |
| Dec 4, 2026 | Holiday Tree Lighting and Santa | Tlaquepaque North | Free |
| Dec 19, 2026 | Sweet Stroll (3–7 p.m.) | Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village | Check organizer |
| Dec 13–14, 2026 | Geminid meteor shower (expected peak) | Safe, permitted dark-sky viewing area | Free |
| January 2027 | Winter film screenings | Sedona International Film Festival venues | Ticketed |
| Feb 6, 2027 | RunSedona Half Marathon, 10K, 5K and Walk | West Sedona / Dry Creek Road | Registration |
| Feb 20–28, 2027 | Sedona International Film Festival | Various Sedona venues | Tickets/passes |
November: A Community Tribute and Cool-Weather Trails
Veterans Day Tribute — Wednesday, November 11
The Sedona Heritage Museum and City of Sedona host the annual tribute to veterans on November 11, beginning at 11 a.m. The free public program features a flag ceremony, music and recognition of military service. It runs approximately 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. If you arrive after the date, treat it as a past event rather than an upcoming stop.
Check details: Visit Sedona Veterans Day Tribute
Make Time for a November Hike
Cooler mornings and comfortable daytime conditions can make November a rewarding time to explore Sedona. But check forecasts and trail alerts: recent flooding has affected access in some areas. Plan a backup hike, carry water and start popular trails early.
December: Tree Lights, Sweet Treats and Starry Nights
Tlaquepaque Tree Lighting — Friday, December 4
Tlaquepaque North hosts its annual tree lighting and Santa visit from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Expect holiday entertainment, children’s activities and hot chocolate around a decorated 26-foot tree. Admission is free.
Event details: Tlaquepaque Tree Lighting
Sweet Stroll at Tlaquepaque — Saturday, December 19
This is the confirmed 2026 Tlaquepaque holiday event, running from 3 to 7 p.m. Shop for gifts, enjoy seasonal treats, Santa visits and music, and watch luminarias light up the courtyards at 5 p.m.
Event details: Sweet Stroll — Visit Sedona
Geminid Meteor Shower — Around December 13–14
The Geminids are a popular December sky-watching event. Actual visibility depends on weather, moonlight and your location. Choose a safe, permitted place to watch; avoid stopping at unofficial roadside pullouts. Bring warm layers and a dim red light.
December tip: plan hikes in daylight and pack extra layers for events after sunset. Check posted schedules and weather before heading out.
January: A Slower Way to Experience Sedona
January can be a rewarding time for travelers who like quieter streets and crisp walks. Expect cold mornings and potential frost or snow; trails may be muddy or icy, and clear weather is not guaranteed. Do not count on easy parking at every popular trailhead.
Film lovers can also explore year-round screenings from the Sedona International Film Festival before the major February event.
Current screenings: Sedona International Film Festival
February: Race Day and the Red Carpet
RunSedona — Saturday, February 6, 2027
The 22nd RunSedona features a half marathon, 10K, 5K and 5K walk through West Sedona’s red-rock scenery. Event information places the start near 3700 W State Route 89A, with routes around Dry Creek Road. Road access and parking may change on race morning, so choose a different day for nearby trailheads if possible. Registration and prices vary by distance.
Register and check logistics: RunSedona official website
Sedona International Film Festival — February 20–28, 2027
The 33rd annual festival brings nine days of independent films, filmmaker conversations and special events to Sedona. Check the official schedule as titles, venues and ticket availability are released, and reserve accommodations early if traveling for a premiere.
Official festival information: Sedona International Film Festival
Tips for Planning Around Sedona Events
- Book early for popular February weekends, but compare actual rates for your dates.
- Pair an early hike with an afternoon or evening event, leaving time for traffic and parking.
- Bring warm layers, sturdy shoes and a backup indoor plan.
- Use the event organizer’s current page for last-minute date, venue and ticket changes.
- Consider West Sedona for access to Posse Grounds, film screenings and Dry Creek Road.
Frequently Asked Questions
What events are happening in Sedona this winter?
The November 11 Veterans Day Tribute, December 4 tree lighting, December 19 Sweet Stroll, February 6 RunSedona and February 20–28 Sedona International Film Festival are confirmed highlights.
When is the Sedona International Film Festival in 2027?
February 20–28, 2027.
When is the Sedona half marathon?
RunSedona is scheduled for Saturday, February 6, 2027, with half marathon, 10K, 5K and walk options.
Is Sedona worth visiting in January?
Yes, especially if you like cooler hikes and a more relaxed itinerary. Expect variable conditions, and check for snow, ice and any closures before choosing trails.
Your West Sedona Basecamp for Winter Events
Winter in Sedona can mean a scenic hike by day and a local event after dark. GreenTree Inn Sedona puts you in West Sedona, near Posse Grounds Park, film-festival venues and the Dry Creek Road area.
Return to the hotel’s pool and hot tub after exploring. Room features and pet policies vary, so check your room type and any applicable pet fees before booking.
Pick your event, plan your hikes, and book your stay at GreenTree Inn Sedona or call (928) 282-9166.
