# Fantasy of Lights Opening Parade & Street Market (Downtown Tempe)

> Event for families in the Phoenix–Mesa–Chandler area (AZ). Times are Arizona Time.

- When: Fri, Nov 27 · 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM
- Where: Downtown Tempe & Mill Avenue, 700 S Mill Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281
- Ages: All ages welcome; stroller-friendly outdoor pedestrian promenades and open plaza viewing
- Price: Free public admission for parade, live entertainment, and Santa photo opportunities
- Organizer: Downtown Tempe Authority
- Official page: https://www.downtowntempe.com
- Last checked: Wed, Nov 4

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Freshness: listings are re-checked on a daily research run (latest check 2026-11-10), and new events are added as organizers post them. Sell-outs, weather cancellations and time changes show up on the live page first: https://grassyknees.com/phoenix/activities/fantasy-of-lights-opening-parade-and-street-market-downtown-tempe--listing-9e15ddf6032cefb5ab25a6d2

## About

On Black Friday evening, the Downtown Tempe Fantasy of Lights Street Parade & Tree Lighting transforms historic Mill Avenue into a sparkling holiday festival. Families gather along Mill Avenue between 3rd Street and University Drive to experience an illuminated twilight procession featuring lighted community floats, marching bands, costumed holiday characters, and motorized units.

CenterPoint Plaza hosts the festive street market filled with local artisans, seasonal treats, and hot cocoa stations. Kids can visit Santa's workshop for free photos and drop handwritten wish lists into the holiday mailbox. Following the parade, the crowd counts down together as Tempe's towering holiday tree is illuminated in thousands of colorful LED lights.

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