There are only three or so months in southern Arizona where the sun doesn't chase after you with its fiery pitchfork of heatstroke. From mid November until the beginning of February it's safe to venture outside, which is why all the most exciting activity filled festivals has to be crammed into that tiny three-month window. During December it seems like there is a festival every single day whether it be a musical festival, craft festival, holiday or beer fest. If you live in Phoenix you know that now is your time to take advantage. With so many events to choose from it can be hard to decide to which to go.

Without thinking or blinking twice we have a few in mind that we keep towards the top of our list and in December, hands down, it's Glendale Glitters! Downtown Glendale turns its historic buildings and parks into a sparkly wonderland with over 1.5 million dazzling lights that make you forget to watch where you're going because your eyes keep traveling to the glowing trees. Murphy Park turns into a fun fest with tons of booths with everything from fudge, to purses and those binky necklaces that kids always end up getting because parents are in such a happy holiday mood. The amphitheater features live entertainment with various dance and music troupes. A vast assortment of activities are featured all over the park like rock climbing, zip lining, bounce houses, giant hamster balls, snow and photos with Santa. There is a whole street shut down just for food vendors and a beer garden for the grown ups.

With the theme of Glendale Glitters being fun, family and their unique themed weekends, we like to get in on the action. You can find the Bookmans Craft Booth on Friday, Dec. 4 and 5 and again on Friday, Dec. 16 and 17. For the Spirit of Giving Weekend we are inviting everyone to join us in making free peace sign ornaments and on the following weekend we are creating guitar ornaments for Jingle Bell Rock Weekend. Come by our booth and catch the free fun or just give us a high five (it's cold and we'd appreciate the quick shot of warmth). We are spreading the word about the Lego contest we are helping to run during Glendale's Glitter N' Glow Block Party in January. Want to find out more? Come see us at the Bookmans Craft booth directly in front of the stage and let's rejoice that Glendale and Bookmans are together!