Fantasy of Lights Street Parade + Tree Lighting
Visitors can watch dazzling floats, performers, and holiday characters travel down Mill Avenue during the festive street parade. The celebration continues at CenterPoint Plaza with the official lighting of a 36-foot-tall holiday tree alongside live music and roaming entertainers. Families can also stop by to take photos with Santa and compose notes at a holiday letter-writing station.
What to Expect
Features festive parade floats, live entertainment, and a 36-foot-tall tree lighting.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Tempe
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Downtown Tempe Authority
Food & Drink
Snack and drink vendors are on site; visitors can come early to enjoy them.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with children
Vibe
Festive and lively
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Location
Know Before You Go
- Parking: Downtown Tempe has several parking options; free Sunday parking applies to on-street meters and select garages.
Tips & Advice
- Come early to claim your spot along Mill Avenue, since all parade viewing is first come, first served.
- Park free at a Valley Metro Rail Park-and-Ride lot and ride the train to 3rd & Mill instead of hunting for parking downtown.
- Bike in and leave your bike at the free Tempe Bicycle Action Group valet at 7th Street and Mill Avenue.
- If you're counting on the Tempe Streetcar, know that it only runs between the Dorsey and 9th Street stops during the event.
- Stay after the parade and walk to CenterPoint Plaza for the tree lighting, photos with Santa and the kids' letter-writing station.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a good spot to watch the parade?
Come early. All viewing along Mill Avenue is first come, first served.
Is there food and drink?
Yes. Snack and drink vendors set up before the parade, along with live music.
What happens after the parade?
The celebration moves to CenterPoint Plaza for the lighting of Downtown Tempe's 36-foot-tall holiday tree. There's more live music, photos with Santa, and a station where kids can write letters to the North Pole.
What's the easiest way to get downtown?
Valley Metro Rail has free parking at 13 Park-and-Ride lots and runs straight to 3rd & Mill. You can also get off at the Tempe Transportation Center. If you drive, Tempe TRiP's interactive map shows downtown parking options.
Can I bike to the parade?
Yes. Tempe Bicycle Action Group runs a free bike valet at 7th Street and Mill Avenue.
More Christmas Events Near Tempe
More Christmas Events near Tempe
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.