Kings Ransom Sedona Hotel’s
Holiday Winter Comfort and Joy!

Begin your holiday shopping in Sedona at the Kings Ransom Sedona Hotel…we offer you Comfort and Joy this year…and it starts with deeply discounted mid-week and weekend rates.    Our hotel is decked out for the holidays…joyful twinkling lights are everywhere to celebrate the season! We are a short walk to all of Sedona’s best galleries and the famous Tlaquepaque Spanish Art Village, where you can participate in many holiday festivities (see below).

When you return to the hotel, experience the comfort of your well-appointed hotel room,  our wonderful outdoor spa, and enjoy the holiday lights and wonder of Sedona’s star-filled night sky. Joyful dining is guaranteed in our fabulous new restaurant, Elote Café, starting with a fine margarita.  Chef Jeff  Smedstad  serves cuisine with an upscale twist on traditional Mexican food — comfort food, like fall-off-the-bone tender meats, hand-rolled tamales, and slow-simmered molé sauces, prepared each day. Elote Café offers a seasonal menu of fine Mexican favorites served in a joyous and view-filled atmosphere.  This is a memorable dining experience you will love and want to repeat whenever you are in Sedona!.  If you mention “Comfort and Joy discount” when you make your hotel reservation, we will take an additional $10 per night off our published internet rates at kingsransomsedona.com.  This is our gift of Comfort and Joy to you!

So join us for the holidays in Sedona during the week, when there is less traffic, or on the weekend, and experience the beautiful Kings Ransom Hotel with its sparkling heated and jetted spa, outstanding restaurant, Elote Cafe (open Tues-Sat for dinner), and our complimentary  Continental Breakfast!  We have a hiking trail directly behind the hotel and extraordinary views!  Sedona’s famous Red Rock Fantasy holiday light show is only minutes away to enhance your holiday fun!

Call us toll-free at 1-800-846-6164 or email us and be sure to say, “I want the Comfort and Joy Discount”!   

This offer is good December 2 through December 23rd, 2009 and also the months of January and February, 2010.

Here are some of the special activities planned for the Holidays!

Verde Canyon Railroad!

When: Every Sunday, Wednesday, Saturday, from December 2nd - December 30th

On Santa's annual sojourn away from the North Pole, his favorite pastimes are listening to children's gift wishes and satisfying his passion for vintage trains. Lucky for us his December schedule prior to Christmas includes Saturday, Sunday and Wednesday afternoons riding the rails of the Verde Canyon Railroad's Santa Claus Express. Eagle-decorated FP7 engines pull coaches filled with gleeful passengers away from the station at 1 p.m., for a round trip through the wonderland of Verde Canyon to the old Perkinsville Ranch, returning at about 5 p.m.

Santa excitedly fills two seats with his ample girth and invites the children to gather round his magic story book for 'Twas the Night Before Christmas...' Mrs. Claus doles out scrumptious cookies to all, and Elfie tags behind with milk and hot chocolate. Beer, wine and cocktails are available for the big kids.

Outside the panoramic windows of the comfortable, climate-controlled coaches, the breathtaking splendor of crimson cliffs and brilliant blue sky passes by. From lofty trestle bridges the shimmering Verde River is seen snaking along the valley floor. Deer, elk and javelina emerge from the forest of cottonwoods and sycamores to quench their thirst and Great Blue Heron cruise along its emerald waters.

As nature's extravaganza unfolds in the canyon, the train's narrator enriches the experience with historical, archaeological, geological, and wildlife facts. Young and old alike take to the open-air viewing cars as attendants point out the sizable nest perched precariously on a canyon wall. Everyone wants to know if Black and Decker, one of the resident bald eagle couples, are at home.

Eagle Watch will soon be underway as many annually returning bald and golden eagles join the locals and a variety of other migratory birds and waterfowl already comfortably ensconced within the rugged canyon walls. The canyon, a riparian sanctuary ideally situated below the cold of the mountains, offers a wealth of food and mild winters.

The North Pole's celebrity trio returns for a rousing sing-a-long of "Jingle Bells" as the train winds its way deeper into the scenic chasm. Around each bend passengers shout "turtle," "elephant" and "angel," as a series of sandstone shapes formed by nature's artistry appears in the rugged cliffs along the route.

Join Santa, the king of merriment, his better half, Mrs. Claus, and Elfie as they sweep you away from the bustling city into a magical family get-a-away steeped in nature's spectacular wilderness vistas. Santa and his elf ride the train every Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday in December right up to Christmas.

After the train ride, head to the Blazin' M Ranch Chuckwagon Dinner Show in nearby Cottonwood, and I'd bet my last nickel Christmas cheer will abound. The Verde Canyon Railroad depot is located at 300 N. Broadway in Clarkdale, 25 minutes from Sedona, two hours north of Phoenix, and 90 minutes south of Flagstaff. Passengers are encouraged to arrive approximately one and one-half hours prior to departure.

For convenience reserve your Verde Canyon Railroad trip and Blazin' M Ranch experience at the same time by calling 1-800-293-7245 or book on-line at www.verdecanyonrr.com.

When: 1:00 PM

Where: Verde Canyon Railroad Depot, 300 N. Broadway, Clarkdale

Phone: 800-293-7245

Contact: www.verdecanyonrr.com

Jerome Chamber of Commerce Presents the Polar Express Party

When: December 4th

All Aboard The Polar Express at Spook Hall in Jerome.

Caption: Suzie Guerrero gets ready for the Jerome Chamber of Commerce Polar Express Party with her book and her cozy pajamas. Photo by Ron Chilston Photography.
 
The Polar Express has become a favorite Christmas tradition for more than 5 million readers. Join the Jerome Chamber of Commerce as they host a cozy holiday party where kids can participate in lots of fun activities, including writing a letter to Santa, making an ornament, hot chocolate, and a great cookie and a reading of the classic children’s story.

Anyone with the book is welcome to bring it and read along. Pajamas are welcome. Tickets should be purchased in advance at Mooey Christmas or Gisele’s Café and Bakery on Jerome Avenue in Jerome or credit card sales by phone at 928-634-2604.

Only 175 tickets will be sold. The event will be held at Spook Hall in Jerome, 260 Hull Avenue, and begins at 6 p.m. Tickets are $5 per person.
 
And…who knows…there may be a surprise visit from Santa!

When: 6:00 PM

Where: Spook Hall, 260 Hull Avenue, Jerome

Phone: 928-634-2604

Contact: Mooey Christmas or Gisele’s Café

Annual Holiday Tree Lighting and Santa Visit

When: Friday, December 4th, 2009

Sedona's Annual Holiday Tree Lighting and Santa Visit takes place from 5-6:30 p.m., with celebrations and entertainment in Uptown Sedona. Bring the children to visit with Santa. The festivities are free, decorations abound, the shopping is great and the dining is divine.

Come see, taste and feel our small town welcome to jump start your holiday spirit. For details call 928-204-2390 or email info@sedonamainstreet.com.

When: 5:00 PM

Where: Uptown Sedona

Phone: 928-204-2390

Contact: info@sedonamainstreet.com

Light up the Mountain Celebration

When: Saturday, December 5th

Once again, it is Christmas in Jerome and that means a night of luminarias, tree lighting, and hayrides. Festivities begin at 6 p.m., with the merchants of Jerome setting out lovely luminarias and lighting the streets by the flickering of candles. At 7 p.m., join town residents in the upper park to turn the switch on a beautiful display of holiday cheer.

Caption: The Upper Park in Jerome is the place to be for the lighting of the town Christmas Tree. Photo by Ron Chilston.

Throughout the evening, there will be hayrides. On this first Saturday of the month, Jerome Art Walk will also be in full swing, starting at 5 p.m., restaurants will be offering special treats, and shops will be bustling with holiday shoppers. 

Join the town of Jerome for the Annual Light up the Mountain Celebration. For more information, contact Coleen at 928-649-3847.

Where: Jerome

Phone: 928-649-3847

Contact: Coleen

Festival of Lights at Tlaquepaque

December in Sedona is a magical time. Especially at the beautiful Mexican-style village that is the Art and Soul of Sedona- Tlaquepaque. It's hard to describe what it feels like to be in the midst of 6,000 golden-hued luminarias that punctuate every wall, balcony, patio, and cobbled stone walkway in the arts village. If ever there was a place for bedazzlement and holiday wonder, the 36th Annual Festival of Lights at Tlaquepaque is it.

Everyone — the young, young at heart and revelers everywhere — is invited to the holiday celebration on Saturday, December 12th, from 3 to 8 p.m. Admission is free, as is the Sedona Trolley service from the uptown Municipal parking lot to Tlaquepaque, available throughout the festival hours.
 
For many the lighting of a luminaria has a special significance. A Tlaquepaque tradition for six years, cancer survivors are honored and those that lost their lives to cancer are remembered as friends and families dedicate a luminaria in their name. Donations to help fight the disease are gratefully accepted by the American Cancer Society. The sponsored luminarias will their special messages are then placed around the fountain at Patio del Norte. "This can be a challenging time of year for many families. We want to especially remember those that are heroically fighting cancer or who overcame it… as well as those who did not. In a small way we pause to acknowledge them at this special time of year," said Wendy Lippman, general manager and managing partner of Tlaquepaque.

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS SCHEDULE:

Friday, December 11:

Free performance by lead singers Ron Tolson and Bryan Pace of the River of Life Tabernacle Choir, in the Tlaquepaque Chapel, 4 to 7 p.m.
 
Saturday, December 12:

Gather the kids to see the arrival of Santa Claus and his elves, accompanied by Christmas favorites sung by local entertainers Tom and Shondra. Patio del Norte, 3 to 5:30 p.m.

Three generations of Family Rojas Mariachis, from grandkids to grandparents, will perform lively seasonal fare. Plaza de la Fuente, 3 to 5 p.m.

Violinist Marie Rhines, one of today’s premier interpreters of the rich American traditions of violin-fiddle music, will perform in the Chapel, 3 to 4 p.m.

Get ready for the fabulous sounds of steel drums, marimba and more with Paul McDermand, sure to put you in the holiday spirit. Patio de las Campanas, 3 to 8 p.m.

Lighting of 6000 Luminarias… as the Tlaquepaque Bell Tower strikes 5 p.m., throughout the walkways and patios. Breathtaking!

Enjoy uplifting and inspired traditional Christmas selections by pianist Jim Buchanan in the Chapel, 4 to 5:30 p.m.

The heart pounding, high-energy River of Life Tabernacle Choir is not to be missed. Astounding in their mastery of song, their repertoire is both traditionally seasonal and inspiring gospel. This huge crowd favorite performs every year with dozens of singers, in Plaza de la Fuente, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

The Chavez Jazz Trio with Frankie Chavez, accomplished drummer and percussionist, will perform in Patio Del Norte, from 5:30 to 8 p.m.

The Leman Music Ensemble, interpreting both traditional and popular Christmas favorites performs in the Chapel, from 6 to 8 p.m.

Carolers will stroll throughout Tlaquepaque during the afternoon to round out the holiday cheer. Enjoy complimentary hot cider while shopping. The stores and galleries will be open until 8 p.m. And reservations at Tlaquepaque’s restaurants are recommended.

Home to more than 40 shops and galleries and four restaurants, Tlaquepaque, the Art and Soul of Sedona, now in its 37th year, is located at 336 Highway 179 at the Oak Creek Bridge just south of 89A on Highway 179. It is open daily at 10 a.m. For more information call (928) 282-4838, or visit www.tlaq.com and www.shoptlaq.com.

Where: Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, Hyw 179, Sedona

Phone: (928) 282-4838

Contact: www.tlaq.com

Pilgrimage to Bethlehem

When: December 18th - December 20th

The unforgettable story of the First Christmas comes alive on the streets of Uptown Sedona on the grounds of Historic Wayside Chapel. Watch as Mary and Joseph arrive in Bethlehem for the census. Stroll through the Ancient Bethlehem Market and hear the angels announce the birth of the Messiah! Enjoy carols sung by a Christmas Choir.

It all happens Friday, Saturday, and Sunday December 18 – 20, when 100 performers, musicians, dancers, live animals and the choir take to the streets in Uptown Sedona. Bethlehem Market opens from 2:30-4:30 p.m. The Christmas Choir and Living Nativity begin at 5 p.m. 

Visit www.pottershandproductions.com or call (928)300-3968 for more information.

When: 2:30 PM

Where: Wayside Chapel, Uptown Sedona

Phone: (928)300-3968

Contact: www.pottershandproductions.com

Evening Sky Tours "Tours of the Universe"

When: Special Discount during the month of December!

Sedona, AZ: The leading consumer travel website, TripAdvisor, has ranked Evening Sky Tours LLC, fourth out of 79 attractions in Sedona. Due to numerous and recent positive customer reviews, Evening Sky Tours now ranks among the top consumer rated attractions in Sedona.

"We are delighted not only that our customers are raving about our tours but the fact that they took the time to submit a review makes a big statement about the quality of our experience." said Clifford Ochser, founder and president of the company. "We are so confident that our customers love our tours we encourage them to fill out reviews on TripAdvisor.  We have had over 10,000 people come on our tours in the last 5 years and have never had a customer complaint."

Evening Sky Tours is the only tour company in Sedona providing entertaining and educational stargazing “Tours of the Universe.”  The company’s top priority is commitment to quality and a professional experience for guests. Evening Sky Tours has the most qualified guides and the some of the largest telescopes for an unparalleled star gazing experience.

With the fall season underway, the tours will feature awesome looks at Jupiter, the Andromeda Galaxy, and winter constellations like Orion and Cassiopeia.  October through December are some of the best stargazing conditions in Sedona with many clear, dark, and dry nights which are exceptional conditions for astronomy.  

The “Ask for Discount” offer is extended through December 31. The discount gives $5 off for each adult when reservations are booked online. “Tours of the Universe” are offered nightly.

TripAdvisor is the world's largest travel community where you can get real information, advice, and opinions from millions of travelers to plan and take your perfect trip. Visit TripAdvisor to read reviews of Evening Sky Tours, LLC.

For more information about Evening Sky Tours, call 928-203-006 or visit www.eveningskytours.com.

Where: Evening Sky Tours, Sedona

Phone: 928-203-0006

Contact: Cliff Osher

To book your Sedona Hotel Room,
please call 800-846-6164