A New Tradition Begins: Arizona Inn Illuminates Tucson with Its First Christmas Tree Lighting - A celebration of community, memory, and the enduring spirit of the Pink Palace of the Desert
Arizona Inn’s First Annual Christmas Tree Lighting.
On the evening of November 30, 2025, the Arizona Inn, Tucson's beloved Pink Palace welcomed more than 650 guests onto its historic gardens for a moment destined to become part of its living history: the Inn's First Annual Christmas Tree Lighting.
What unfolded felt less like a new event and more like a page reopened from the Inn's earliest chapters. A century ago, during the Inn's earliest holiday seasons, families gathered in rooms lit by hand-strung garlands and towering trees dressed in tinsel, toys, and simple gifts. One sepia photograph from the Inn's archives, showing a tree heavy with ornaments, dolls, and childhood wonder, became the quiet inspiration for this year's décor. Just as Isabella Greenway intended in 1930, the holiday scene felt warm, lived-in, and deeply human.
Last night, history stepped forward once more.
An Evening Wrapped in Community - Guests began arriving at 4:00 PM, filling the lawn behind the Audubon Bar with the gentle hum of conversation, holiday anticipation, and the clinking of warm cups of hot chocolate. Children decorated cookies and ornaments while a small group of local carolers, dressed in vintage attire reminiscent of mid-century Tucson, sang classics that bridged generations.
As the sun dipped behind the palms, the familiar pitter-patter of little feet carried across the lawn, followed by delighted gasps as Santa arrived to greet the children and lead them toward the towering 16-18 foot Christmas tree, standing proudly against the evening sky. A local band began playing festive songs, and families gathered shoulder to shoulder, neighbors finding neighbors in the glow of holiday lights.
Later that evening, Santa raised his hand, and the crowd joined in a resounding countdown:
Ten… nine… eight…
And when the final number fell, the trees and the grand palms beside it, burst into light.
In that instant, snow fell over Tucson. Artificial, yes - but in the laughter, wonder, and lifted faces, it felt entirely real.
Echoes of Christmases Past as several multi-generation Tucson families attended last night, bringing with them memories woven into the Inn's own legacy:
"We live in the neighborhood, and our tradition every Christmas is a walk to the Inn, a cocktail or hot chocolate, and a picture by the tree."
"My family went to the event last night and are most grateful for the wonderful experience. The generosity of the Inn in all aspects of the event were overwhelming. There is a new "heart" to the Inn and we are very happy to be a part of patronizing your hotel. We could tell everyone was doing their very best to welcome guests and make the event meaningful."
"My staff and I used to go for early breakfasts in December - fire in the fireplace, and then a picture beside the Library tree. Lovely memories."
"My three best friends and I celebrated Christmas here every year. Dinner, secret Santa ornaments, and photos by the tree… beautiful memories."
These stories, shared quietly between sips of cocoa or spoken aloud beneath the glow of the newly lit tree, reminded everyone present that the Arizona Inn is more than a hotel. It is a keeper of moments. A witness to family rituals. A place where memory is not simply recalled, but renewed.
Last night, those memories gained a new chapter. A Tradition Reborn…While the Arizona Inn has long been a sanctuary of holiday warmth, this was the first formal public tree lighting in its 95-year history.
Created with intention, this new tradition honors:
- Community - the heartbeat of Tucson
- Legacy- the timeless spirit of Isabella Greenway
- History - the Inn's past carried forward with care
- Hope - the joy of gathering, year after year
"We wanted to give something back to the city that has held the Inn so dearly for generations," shared the Inn's leadership team. "What happened tonight felt bigger than an event, it felt like Tucson coming home.
The Christmas Tree Lighting is now planned to be an annual celebration, weaving a new luminous thread into the Inn's ever-growing tapestry of stories.
Looking Ahead: A Milestone Celebration This December, the Arizona Inn prepares for another historic moment: Its 95th Birthday on December 18, 2025.
More details will be shared with the community on upcoming plans and more heart warming events like this, but one thing is certain - Tucson will once again be invited to celebrate a place that has shaped the city's story for nearly a century.
About the Arizona Inn, Founded in 1930 by Isabella Greenway, Arizona's first congresswoman, the Arizona Inn remains one of the city's most cherished landmarks. Known for its pink stucco walls, sunlit courtyards, and timeless Southwestern charm, the Inn continues to honor its legacy of quiet luxury, community connection, and heartfelt hospitality.