Riparian After Dark
Visitors stroll along 1.5 miles of paved trails weaving through the preserve to enjoy thousands of glowing holiday lights and displays. Music plays along the illuminated pathways, which feature light displays that flash and shift between scenes. On-site trucks offer warm coffee, hot chocolate, and light snacks for purchase.
What to Expect
Thousands of holiday lights across 1.5 miles of nature trails.
Event Details
Ages
All ages (Children 3 and under are free)
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Gilbert Special Events
Food & Drink
A hot chocolate and coffee truck and a food truck selling light bites and treats are on site each night.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and nature lovers
Vibe
Festive and peaceful
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: General admission: $5 per person plus taxes/fees; children 3 and under are free. after that, tickets can only be purchased at the gate for that day. On-site tickets are listed for December 13–22, from 5:30–8:30 PM as space allows, at $10 per person plus taxes. Event-day on-site tickets require credit card; no cash. Tickets are non-refundable. Transfers to a different date through Eventbrite incur service/transfer fees. – Get tickets
- Hours: 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM; last ticket time slot 8:30 PM; entrance closes at 8:45 PM.
- Parking: Parking is available at Southeast Regional Library. The event entrance is in the north parking lot at Guadalupe and Greenfield Roads. Other preserve entrances are closed during event hours, and the preserve parking lot is unavailable after 4:00 PM on event days. Visitors parking at local businesses are asked not to leave trash or block customer parking.
- Accessibility: Held on paved trails around the preserve that are fully accessible by strollers, wheelchairs, and walkers.
- Pets: Leashed pets are allowed; visitors should pick up after them.
Tips & Advice
- Buy tickets online before sales close on the afternoon of your visit. After that, the gate is the only option, and entry there depends on space.
- If you buy at the gate, bring a credit card, because event-day tickets are card only and you may wait up to fifteen minutes to get in.
- Carry both cash and a card for the drink and food trucks, since each vendor chooses its own payment methods and there are no ATMs.
- Double-check the date before checking out, because tickets are only valid for the night you choose and are non-refundable.
- Keep kids off the light displays, because anyone caught climbing them will be asked to leave without a refund.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring a stroller or wheelchair?
Yes. The event is on the preserve's paved trails, which are fully accessible for strollers, wheelchairs and walkers.
Is it OK for someone with sensory sensitivities?
A sensory guide is available. Some light displays flash and move from one scene to the next, and music plays along the path.
Where should I park?
Park at the Southeast Regional Library. The event entrance is in the north parking lot at the corner of Guadalupe and Greenfield Roads. All other preserve entrances are closed during the event, and the preserve's own lot is closed to parking from late afternoon on event days.
What is there to eat and drink?
Each night a hot chocolate and coffee truck parks near the entrance gate, and a food truck sells light bites and treats. Each vendor sets its own payment methods, and there are no ATMs on site. Alcohol and glass containers are not allowed.
How can I volunteer or be a vendor?
Volunteers sign up through the Town of Gilbert volunteer portal and get an orientation before the event. Vendors can email SpecialEvents@gilbertaz.gov. The vendor application opens September 11, 2026, and vendors need a current Certificate of Insurance and a Gilbert Business License.
More Christmas Events Near Gilbert
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.