Friday, December 14
Museum Discovery Days: The i.d.e.a. Museum will open its galleries at no cost to the public. The free access is part of the move toward Museum Discovery Days, which aim to make art and hands-on activities accessible to families of all economic backgrounds on select days or evenings. Free days are very popular and attract crowds. To better serve visitors, avoid long lines and allow as many people as possible to enjoy the museum, the museum may implement timed tickets at the door on a first-come, first-served basis. 6-10pm. i.d.e.a. Museum, 150 W. Pepper Pl., Mesa. 480-644-4332. www.ideamuseum.org
Saturday, December 15
Elf Academy: Meet Jingles, Snowflake, Buttons, Tinsel, and more of the North Pole's friendliest elves as they lead you through a variety of the workshop's, games and activities to help you earn your official ELF certificate! Featured Activities include: Imagination Tester, Giant E.L.F Blocks, Snowball Pong, and more! Plus, Santa will have several mailboxes on site, so your letters to Santa can be written, signed, sealed, stamped and postmarked by one of his favorite elves! 11am-1pm. Desert Ridge Marketplace, 21001 N. Tatum Blvd., Phoenix. www.shopdesertridge.com
Sunday, December 16
Santa Hustle Arizona 5k & Half Marathon: Santa Hustle is coming to town! Thousands of Santa's will gather to race for the holidays. Jingle all the way through our festive course with candy and cookies, holiday music, a holly jolly afterparty & so much more! 8am-12pm. Westgate Entertainment District, 6751 N. Sunset Blvd., Glendale. www.santahustle.com/Arizona
For more information, go to www.azparenting.com.