jason machamer

While the rest of downtown continues its day to day hustle, the whimsical paradise of lights, jingle bells, festive songs, adoptable pets, and cocktails are brightening up the corner of Congress St. and 5th Ave.

Also, did you know Santa Claus is hanging out, waiting to greet you?

Well, he’s had his list and he has checked it more than twice because this year’s display is as joyous as ever. Each weekend, the entire family can meet up with Santa and his elves, create arts and crafts, munch of some sweet treats, and even donate to local charities.

Aside from that, the festivities also cater to those 21 years and older. The bar inside will be utilizing holiday spirits from the holiday-inspired cocktail menu.

Take a glance at the hours, so that you plan your experience accordingly.

Miracle on Congress St. Schedule

Santa’s Hours

• Fridays from 4 p.m. – 10 p.m.
• Saturdays from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• Sundays from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Bar Hours

• Fridays from 4 p.m. – Midnight
• Saturdays from 11 a.m. – Midnight
• Sundays from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.

It’s all part of the “Off-Roading in the Enchanted Sonoran Desert” setup that’s taken over the section of the resort.

The crew rolled in an actual Jeep and then covered it in more than 500 pounds of candy and 1,000 gingerbread tiles — a total of 250 hours to complete it, too. The wheels are covered in fondant, the exterior of the Jeep has been enhanced by hundreds of vibrantly colored candy, and there’s plenty of other sweets added to the mix as well.

Ranger Ainsley, the yellow lab/the official lobby greeter for The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain has also been presented with his very own gingerbread doghouse.

During the class, Jackie will be covering composition, lighting, and techniques he commonly uses when out on a shot. In addition, there’s going to be bites from one of Tucson’s great food trucks, and beer available from Public Brewhouse.

It’s $229 per person or $210 for non-alcoholic drinks. The 50% nonrefundable deposit is due by Wednesday, December 25, and the remainder is due by Sunday, January 5.

Tuition includes:

• The three-hour class
• Lunch from a local food truck (TBD)
• Two pints of beer from Public Brewhouse
• One-on-one feedback from Jackie

When it comes to prerequisites for the class there’s nothing you need to complete beforehand, and all levels of photographers with no specific kind of equipment are welcomed. In other words, you can bring in any type of camera, like a DSLR or a smartphone.