Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade at Tempe Town Lake

AI image โ€“ Event may differ

Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade at Tempe Town Lake

Tempe, AZ

holiday_light_displays

Dazzling boat parade on Tempe Town Lake

About

Experience the magic of the Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade, a cherished holiday tradition that transforms Tempe Town Lake into a dazzling spectacle. Thousands gather to witness boats adorned with vibrant lights, creative themes, and festive decorations glide across the water. The evening is filled with live entertainment, a bustling holiday market, delicious seasonal treats, and opportunities to meet Santa.

Our Take

Family Friendly

๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ (5/5)

Best For

Families, couples, holiday enthusiasts

Vibe

Festive, magical, community-oriented

Energy Level

Moderate

Budget

Free

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

Tags

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.

Location

1 W. Rio Salado Parkway
Tempe, AZ
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Event Details

Pricing

Free

Duration

Approximately 5 hours

Ages

Family-friendly

Schedule

The festivities begin at 4:00 PM with the park opening for holiday shopping, photos with Santa, and a variety of food and drink vendors. Live entertainment graces the main stage from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, with roaming lighted jugglers enchanting the park from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. The spectacular boat parade commences on Tempe Town Lake at 7:00 PM, followed by a dazzling fireworks finale at 8:00 PM. The event concludes with a final performance on the main stage from 8:15 PM to 9:00 PM.

Organizer

Downtown Tempe Authority

Practical Information

Parking

For Parking Information and/or to Purchase a Parking Permit call (480) 355-6060

Accessibility

For ADA or accessibility accommodation or information, click here

Pet Policy

No pets allowed (service animals welcome)

Food & Drink

Food trucks, snack vendors, beer and wine gardens available

Quick Actions

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot along Tempe Town Lake, as the boat parade and fireworks are popular attractions.
  • Bring blankets or chairs for comfortable seating while enjoying the entertainment and waiting for the parade to begin.
  • Explore the holiday market and food vendors before the main events to avoid crowds and discover unique finds.
  • Consider using public transportation or ride-sharing services to navigate potential parking challenges near Tempe Beach Park.
  • Dress in layers, as evening temperatures in Tempe can vary, ensuring you stay comfortable throughout the festivities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the boat parade start?

The boat parade commences on Tempe Town Lake at 7:00 PM.

Is there a cost to attend the event?

No, the Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade is a free, family-friendly event.

What kind of food and drinks will be available?

Attendees can enjoy a variety of food trucks, snack vendors, and beer and wine gardens.

Can I meet Santa Claus?

Yes, there are opportunities for photos with Santa Claus and to write letters to him.

When does the fireworks finale take place?

The fireworks finale is scheduled to begin at 8:00 PM.

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Contributors & Updates

The ChristmasLocal.com editorial teamOriginal submitter โ€ข Jul 1, 2025