Gilbert will again light up the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch for the annual Riparian After Dark holiday event.  

Attendees can stroll around the 1.5 miles of trails and walkways that weave through the park, 2757 E. Guadalupe Road, Gilbert, and enjoy thousands of holiday lights and displays. 
 
This year's event takes place from 5:30-9 p.m. each night from Dec. 8-19. Tickets can be purchased online on the town’s website at www.gilbertaz.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/special-events-and-permits/riparian-after-dark. 

Tickets are $5 per person online or $10 in person, plus taxes and fees. Children under 3 are free. Tickets are single use and only valid for their designated date (please make sure you are selecting tickets for the correct date before purchase). They cannot be transferred to another date. 

A hot chocolate/coffee truck will be available on site during the event, but no other food will be available. Alcohol and glass containers are strictly prohibited. The town asks attendees not to feed the animals in the preserve. The vendor will accept card and cash payments, but no ATMs will be available on site. 

Parking is available at the Southeast Regional Library adjacent to the preserve.  The event entrance is located in the north parking lot on the corner of Guadalupe and Greenfield roads. 

All other entrances to the Riparian Preserve will be closed during event hours. The town asks that people parking at a local business be courteous of the site and do not leave trash or block customer parking. 

No parking will be available at the Riparian Preserve parking lot after 4 p.m. on event days. 

The event is held on the paved trails around the preserve and is fully accessible by strollers, wheelchairs and walkers. 

The town asks that children not be allowed to climb on light displays. Violators will be asked to leave the event without a refund. 

Leashed pets are allowed at the Riparian Preserve, but customers should pick up after them. 

The town will be collecting dog food, new dog blankets, dog beds and dog toys for pets for various Maricopa County animal rescues each night of the event.