Super Bowl LVII official mascot Spike will preside as the Grand Marshal for the 35th annual APS Electric Light Parade.

“Light Up The Night” is the theme of the Saturday, Dec. 3, event along the streets of central Phoenix.

“The Electric Light Parade is a unique Phoenix tradition that brings families and neighbors from all backgrounds together to celebrate the holidays," Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego said.

“The parade is the largest annual event hosted by our department, and our staff works around the clock to make sure residents have the best experience possible," Cynthia Aguilar, director of Phoenix parks and recreation, said.

The 2.3-mile parade route starts at Central Avenue and Montebello Avenue, travels south to Central Avenue and Camelback Road, heads east along Camelback Road to 7th Street, and continues south along 7th Street to its conclusion at Indian School Road, according to event organizers.

The first parade entries will begin at 7 p.m. and take approximately 60 minutes to reach the end.

“It is strongly recommended that attendees arrive several hours in advance of the start of the parade,” city officials said in a release.

Tips for those planning to attend this year's parade:

· Consider taking Valley Metro Light Rail to the event to avoid traffic congestion. The parade route runs near the Light Rail stop at Central Avenue, just south of Camelback Road.

· The parade is a rain-or-shine event.

· Spectators are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs.

· Viewing spots along the parade route are first-come, first-served. Spectators often start arriving hours prior to parade time to reserve a spot.

· Public on-street parking is available around the parade route on a first-come, first-served basis. Private lots near the parade area often offer parking for a fee.

· Coolers are permitted, but alcohol and glass containers are prohibited.

· Road closures and restrictions affect all parade areas hours before the event.