In the words of Frosty the Snowman, “Let’s have a parade!” This beloved annual tradition returns from 4-8 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 29, kicking off the holiday season in spectacular fashion. This free community tradition sees Mill Avenue burst with color as families line the streets to watch dazzling floats, local performers and Santa himself roll through downtown.
Shop Small Saturday
You must be a member to read this story.
Join our family of readers starting at $5 for your first month and support local, unbiased journalism.
In the words of Frosty the Snowman, “Let’s have a parade!” This beloved annual tradition returns from 4-8 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 29, kicking off the holiday season in spectacular fashion. This free community tradition sees Mill Avenue burst with color as families line the streets to watch dazzling floats, local performers and Santa himself roll through downtown.
Shop Small Saturday
In addition to the parade fun, fuel the holiday spirit with Shop Small Saturday on Nov. 29 — a celebration of the local businesses that make Downtown Tempe one of a kind. Stroll the downtown district to discover unique gifts for everyone on your list throughout the 165-plus street-level businesses, including more than 20 retail shops. There’s an extra touch of holiday magic with special surprises for in-person shoppers, including Shop Small reusable bags and complimentary gift tags (while supplies last), courtesy of Downtown Tempe Authority. Visitors can sign up for the Downtown Tempe newsletter for details on promotions and holiday happenings throughout the season.
One of the Southwest’s most beloved traditions, the Tempe Festival of the Arts transforms Downtown Tempe into a vibrant open-air gallery Dec. 5-7 (10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Sunday). The event spans Mill Avenue between Third Street and University Drive, Fifth Street between Myrtle and Ash Avenues, and Maple Avenue between Fourth Street and Mill Avenue. Guests can enjoy live music, food trucks, entertainment, a wine and spirits tasting and three beer and wine gardens, along with the popular Kids Block, featuring family-friendly activities on Saturday and Sunday.
Tempe’s signature waterfront celebration, the Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade, returns from 4-9 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13, bringing the holiday spirit to life at Tempe Town Lake. The celebration features a glowing boat parade, live music, holiday market with a DIY gift wrapping station and fireworks over the Mill Avenue Bridge. Dozens of boats will twinkle across the lake, decorated in festive lights and creative themes. Visitors can browse the holiday market featuring local artisans, enjoy treats from 15 food vendors and relax at Tempe Beach Park for live entertainment on the Fantasy of Lights stage, presented by Honor Health. To top off the evening, guests can enjoy a spectacular firework display, presented by Andretti Indoor Karting Chandler, and free photos with Santa.
The Menorah Lighting Ceremony from 5:30-7 p.m. on Dec. 16 at Ragsdale-MLK Park, brings the community together to celebrate reflection, unity and hope. Held in collaboration with the Chabad ASU, the event includes the lighting of the menorah, traditional blessings, kosher treats, and kids’ activities and crafts honoring Chanukah traditions and the spirit of inclusion that defines Downtown Tempe.
Comments
No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here