Just about a 100 miles north of Phoenix, you will find the mile high city of Prescott, Arizona. We have called Prescott home since 2016, and this beautiful city of less than 50,000 residents has a landscape totally contrary to what you envision when you think about Arizona. The city is surrounded in every direction by ponderosa pine forest, lakes and mountains, and the four (4) seasons make it perfect for year round outdoor activities.
Prescott is aptly named “Everybody’s Hometown”, and if you are here even just for a day, you will understand why. It’s not anything you can put into words, but has to be experienced. Head downtown to the historic Yavapai County Courthouse, which is surrounded by shops, restaurants, art galleries and of course saloons.
Whiskey Row
It grandly sits directly across from Whiskey Row, and the famous Palace Restaurant / Saloon (www.whiskeyrowpalace.com). The infamous Palace Saloon opened in 1877, and was rebuilt in 1901 after a disastrous fire. It is both the oldest restaurant and bar in the entire state of Arizona. The Palace staff and local cowboys (and those that want to be cowboys) are dressed in period attire. They are a constant reminder of the town’s past, and not just that of the Palace. Close your eyes, and it’s hard not to imagine the time when Wyatt Earp, his brothers, Doc Holliday, and Big Nose Kate patronized the establishments, and walked our streets.
Jersey Lilly Saloon
On Whiskey Row, upstairs and next door to the Palace, is Jersey Lilly Saloon (www.jerseylillysaloon.com). They have a dance floor, great music six days a week, and the ONLY balcony that overlooks the Courthouse.
The owners and Friends of Jersey Lilly raise funds every year to light up the hundreds of trees on the square.
Arizona’s Christmas City
Holidays in Prescott are my favorite and trust me, most every one of them are celebrated, especially Christmas! In 1989, then Governor Rose Mofford designated Prescott as Arizona’s Christmas City (www.arizonachristmascity.com). The Macy’s parade has nothing on Prescott (well, maybe I’m bragging just a bit), but late November we start with an Electric Light Parade and Bonfire, and then continually celebrate throughout the month of December, and into early January.
Acker Night
One of those special evenings in December is Acker Night (www.ackernight.com) The origin of the Acker Musical Showcase was that Mr. Acker had a general store in Prescott in the early 1900’s which had an array of products including school and music supplies. Subsequently Mr. Acker began purchasing property around the Prescott area, and when he passed away in 1955, he left his estate to the City of Prescott to be used for parks and music programs for children. In 1988, a wonderful resident (LaVon Anderson) organized music and Christmas, and the December event (now in its 34th year) came to life!
The night features over 100 downtown businesses who open their doors to musicians donating their time and talent. All donations go towards the Music Departments, and Scholarships for local youth in the Prescott and quad city area.
FancyThat!
FancyThat! (https://fancythatprescott.com) sells for donation the “annual” Acker scarf, which most purchase and proudly wear! The story of Acker does remind me somewhat of the Christmas movie “It’s a Wonderful Life”. Like George Bailey, think of all the live’s over the last 34 years that have been changed due to the generosity of Mr. Acker, and the dream of Mrs. Anderson.
New to the Prescott Christmas Calendar for 2022 is the first ever “Christmas Village and ChristkindlMarket” (Michele just blogged about Chicago so will report if similar), followed by the 12th Annual New Years Eve Whiskey Row Boot Drop and Fireworks (www.bootdrop.com)!
Local Churches
Let us not forget though, the true meaning of Christmas. Music and celebration are evident in the local churches. Prescott United Methodist had a jaw dropping Celtic Christmas Cantata complete with HandBells (www.prescottumc.com), and will have an equally inspiring Christmas Service. Catholic service would be at Sacred Heart Catholic Church (www.sacredheartprescott.com) . The Daily Courier also has a listing of all churches and services (www.dcourier.com).
Places To Stay
Looking for places to stay?
Hassayampa Inn (hassayampainn.com)
Beautifully restored 1927 boutique hotel. Music nightly, and the best Pancakes and Eggs Benedict in the Peacock Dining Room
Hilton Garden Inn (hilton.com)
New to Downtown Prescott, great staff and bar/dining area
Springhill Suites Prescott (marriott.com)