Tempe Fantasy of Lights
Reviewed and updated by AZ Leisure Staff Writers on .
Tempe's Fantasy of Lights brings holiday celebrations to Downtown Tempe and Tempe Town Lake with two signature events each year. In 2026, the season begins with the Fantasy of Lights Street Parade + Tree Lighting on November 28, followed by the Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade on December 12. Visitors can enjoy illuminated parade entries, live entertainment, Santa, holiday activities and festive downtown dining, while the boat parade adds decorated watercraft, a holiday market and a fireworks finale at Tempe Beach Park.
- 2026 Fantasy of Lights Schedule
- Street Parade & Tree Lighting
- Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade
- Holiday Fun In Downtown Tempe
- Visitor Tips
- Fantasy of Lights FAQ
2026 Tempe Fantasy of Lights Schedule
Fantasy of Lights Street Parade + Tree Lighting: Saturday, November 28, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in Downtown Tempe. The street parade begins at 6:00 p.m., followed by the holiday tree lighting at CenterPoint Plaza.
Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade: Saturday, December 12, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Tempe Beach Park. The event features decorated boats on Tempe Town Lake, entertainment, a holiday market, food and drinks, Santa and a fireworks finale.
Fantasy of Lights Street Parade & Tree Lighting
Downtown Tempe's holiday season kicks off with the Fantasy of Lights Street Parade + Tree Lighting along Mill Avenue. Festivities begin in the afternoon with live music, snack and drink vendors and family-friendly activities. At 6:00 p.m., illuminated floats, performers and holiday characters make their way through the downtown district.
After the parade, the celebration continues at CenterPoint Plaza with the lighting of Downtown Tempe's 36-foot holiday tree. Visitors can also enjoy additional live music, photos with Santa and a children's letter-writing station for sending holiday wishes to the North Pole.
Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade At Tempe Town Lake
The holiday celebration continues at Tempe Beach Park with the Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade. Decorated boats covered in colorful lights travel across Tempe Town Lake while visitors gather along the waterfront for an evening of seasonal entertainment.
The 2026 event also includes live music, a holiday market, food and drink vendors, photos with Santa, letters to Santa and beer and wine gardens. A fireworks finale concludes the evening. The Boat Parade is a free, family-friendly event, although current entry policies and event rules should be checked before attending.
Holiday Fun In Downtown Tempe
Fantasy of Lights events take place within one of Tempe's most walkable entertainment districts. Before or after the festivities, visitors can explore restaurants, shops and entertainment along Mill Avenue and throughout Downtown Tempe. The holiday season also overlaps with other downtown events, making the area especially active during late November and December.
For more information about restaurants, entertainment and attractions in the area, see our Mill Avenue District guide and Tempe Arizona vacation guide.
Tips For Visiting Tempe Fantasy of Lights
Arrive early for both Fantasy of Lights events because popular viewing areas can fill before the parades begin. Downtown parking, transit options and temporary street closures may vary by event, so check current Downtown Tempe transportation information before leaving home.
The Boat Parade currently uses a clear-bag policy at Tempe Beach Park. Visitors should also check current weather, event-entry policies and schedules immediately before attending because operating details can change.
Tempe Fantasy of Lights FAQ
When is Tempe Fantasy of Lights in 2026?
The Fantasy of Lights Street Parade + Tree Lighting is Saturday, November 28, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade is Saturday, December 12, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Where is the Fantasy of Lights Street Parade?
The Street Parade + Tree Lighting takes place in Downtown Tempe along Mill Avenue, with the holiday tree lighting held at CenterPoint Plaza.
What time does the Fantasy of Lights Street Parade start?
The 2026 street parade is scheduled to begin at 6:00 p.m. on November 28. Downtown festivities begin earlier at 4:00 p.m.
Is there a Christmas tree lighting in Downtown Tempe?
Yes. The Fantasy of Lights Street Parade is followed by the lighting of Downtown Tempe's 36-foot holiday tree at CenterPoint Plaza.
When is the Tempe Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade?
The 2026 Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade is scheduled for December 12 from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Tempe Beach Park.
Are there fireworks at Tempe Fantasy of Lights?
Yes. The current 2026 Boat Parade event includes a fireworks finale at Tempe Beach Park. Fireworks are not currently listed as part of the November Street Parade + Tree Lighting.
Is Tempe Fantasy of Lights free?
Downtown Tempe currently describes the Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade as a free, family-friendly event. Visitors should check the current event pages for any updated policies or activity-specific charges.
Can you see Santa at Tempe Fantasy of Lights?
Yes. Current 2026 event information includes opportunities for photos with Santa at both the Street Parade + Tree Lighting celebration and the Boat Parade.
Official Downtown Tempe Holiday Events
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