Arizona Winter Weddings: Weather, Venues and Ideas for December to February

While much of the country is shoveling snow, Arizona’s low desert is sunny and mild. Winter is a great time to get married in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tucson, Yuma and Lake Havasu, and it is still a little less in demand than October, November, March and April, which can mean more open dates.

What winter weather is like

• Low desert: daytime highs are often in the 60s and low 70s from December through February. Evenings cool off quickly after sunset, often into the 40s, and occasional frost is possible.
• Middle elevations (Sedona, Prescott): cooler days and nights that often drop below freezing. Light snow happens some years.
• High country (Flagstaff, White Mountains): snow is common. A snowy wedding is possible, but plan for road conditions and travel delays.

Winter storms in Arizona are usually brief, but rain does happen, so a covered backup is still smart.

Early sunsets

Sunset in Phoenix arrives between about 5:20 and 6:00 pm in December and January. That means an earlier ceremony than in other seasons. Many couples hold the ceremony around 3:30 to 4:00 pm so portraits fall in golden hour, then move into dinner as it gets dark. Plan lighting for the reception, such as string lights, lanterns and candles, because outdoor spaces get dark early.

Keeping guests warm

• Rent patio heaters for outdoor cocktail hours and receptions. Ask the venue about placement and fuel rules.
• Fire pits and lounge areas make a cozy gathering spot, if fire rules allow.
• Offer blankets or pashminas for guests at outdoor ceremonies.
• Serve warm drinks such as hot cider, coffee, hot chocolate or Mexican hot chocolate.
• Choose a venue with indoor space close by in case the evening turns cold.

Winter style ideas

• Rich colors: deep green, burgundy, rust, gold and cream.
• Velvet ribbons, candlelight and greenery on long tables.
• Luminarias, the paper lanterns that are a Southwestern holiday tradition, along paths and walkways.
• Citrus in centerpieces, since Arizona’s citrus season peaks in winter.
• Heartier menus with braised meats, green chile stews and warm desserts.

Holidays and busy weekends

Weddings around Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Eve can be wonderful because guests already have time off, but flights and hotels cost more and book early. Some vendors charge holiday rates. January and February are popular with visitors escaping cold weather, and major events in the Phoenix area, such as big golf tournaments and spring training starting in late February, can raise hotel prices. Check local event calendars before choosing a date.

Why couples love winter

• Comfortable daytime temperatures in the low desert.
• Clear skies and beautiful light.
• Guests from cold places are happy to travel somewhere warm.
• Some venues offer better pricing than in peak fall months.

Compare the seasons in the best time to get married in Arizona, find rentals such as heaters and lighting, and browse Arizona wedding venues with indoor and outdoor options.