As December approaches, the city of Tempe, AZ, begins to glow — not just from streetlights, but from festive displays, decorations, and community events that bring people together. For many residents, this time of year unfolds as a patchwork of cheerful gatherings, from downtown parades to soft snowfall at outdoor malls.
These celebrations offer more than lights and music. They weave together traditions, local culture, and the spirit of giving. Whether someone has lived in Tempe, AZ, for decades or just moved in, the holiday season offers a chance to connect, reflect, and create lasting memories.
In the following sections, this article explores how communities in and near Tempe, AZ, mark the holidays through tree lightings, festive festivals, community traditions, and charitable giving.
Downtown Tempe’s Parade and Tree Lighting Kickoff
Each year, residents look forward to the event that marks the start of the holiday season in Downtown Tempe: the Fantasy of Lights Street Parade + Tree Lighting. This vibrant parade features festive floats, performers, live music, and roaming street entertainers. As floats pass through Mill Avenue toward CenterPoint Plaza, the energy builds among families, friends, and neighbors, all gathered to celebrate together.
When the parade ends, the official tree lighting ceremony begins. A 36-foot holiday tree is illuminated at CenterPoint Plaza, accompanied by photos with Santa, holiday songs, and a festive, cozy atmosphere. Many attendees bring children for photos, write letters to Santa at a letter-writing station, and enjoy seasonal treats from local vendors.
This event is free and open to the public, making it a perfect way to welcome the season — whether one wants to continue a long-held tradition or welcome the holidays for the first time in Tempe.
Festive Celebrations at Tempe Marketplace
Another focal point for holiday cheer is the Tempe Marketplace. Each season, its large 50-foot tree is lit for the first time as part of the holiday festivities, accompanied by live entertainment, music performances, and appearances from Santa and Mrs. Claus. This year, Holiday Tree Lighting took place on November 26, 2025.
The celebration is more than just lights. Guests can enjoy “snowfall,” hot chocolate, festive decorations, and photo ops throughout the open-air shopping center. For those 21 and older, there’s a “Sip & Stroll” mobile bar offered at some events, adding a grown-up touch to the holiday atmosphere.
Tempe Marketplace’s holiday events also serve as fundraisers. Proceeds often benefit local charities — making it a meaningful way to enjoy the season while supporting good causes.
Waterborne Festivities and Evening Magic on the Lake
For a different twist on holiday celebration, the Tempe Town Lake offers a unique setting: the Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade. Boats of various sizes, adorned with holiday lights, drift across the water while nearby parks and walkways come alive with markets, music, food, and a dramatic fireworks show to top it all off.
This event invites families, couples, and friends to stroll along the banks, enjoy seasonal food and drinks, and soak in the reflections of lights on the water. With holiday shopping booths, live entertainment, Santa photo ops, and fireworks, the boat parade offers a festive alternative for those looking beyond traditional tree-lighting ceremonies.
The contrast between city lights and the lake’s calm water creates a memorable vibe — one that resonates especially with people seeking something special beyond typical holiday routines.
Community Traditions and Holiday Celebrations of Faith
The holiday season in Tempe, AZ, embraces cultural and religious diversity. Among the offerings is the Menorah Lighting Ceremony held at Ragsdale – MLK Park, organized in partnership with local communities. This event welcomes Jewish families and anyone interested in observing the traditions of Chanukah, with blessings, music, children’s crafts, and kosher treats.
These gatherings bring together neighbors and friends to celebrate faith and community. They offer opportunities for education, solidarity, and mutual respect — reminding everyone that the holiday season has many meanings, and many ways to honor tradition.
Holiday Cheer Through Giving and Local Support
Beyond lights and festivities, the season in Tempe often centers on generosity. Many holiday events — especially those at Tempe Marketplace — benefit charitable causes. For example, the proceeds from some events go toward children’s hospitals or seasonal donation drives.
Also, free public events like the Downtown parade or the Boat Parade provide spaces where families can enjoy celebrations without spending much. The sense of shared community, shared joy, and shared giving helps create a warm holiday environment for residents of all backgrounds.
How Holiday Events Shape Connections in Tempe
Holiday events in Tempe, AZ, do more than decorate streets and light up trees. They create shared experiences: friends meeting for hot chocolate, families riding together to watch a boat parade, neighbors strolling under lights, or children writing letters to Santa. These moments strengthen bonds and build memories — not just for a night, but for years.
Newcomers find ways to connect with long-time residents; families start new traditions; friends gather to celebrate in public spaces. In a city known for its student population and diverse communities, these seasonal events can help bridge gaps and offer common ground.
The variety of celebrations — from shopping centers to lakeside parades — ensures there is something for everyone. That inclusivity fosters a stronger sense of belonging, showing that the holiday season in Tempe is both festive and welcoming.
As the weather cools and evenings come early, Tempe, AZ, glows with lights, music, and community spirit. From downtown parades to lakeside boat shows, from seasonal skylines to heartfelt charitable events, the city offers rich opportunities for celebration, reflection, and connection.
Regardless of background or faith, residents can find something that resonates: a tree lighting with hot cocoa, laughter with loved ones, quiet moments by the lake, or communal ceremonies celebrating holiday traditions.
Ultimately, the holiday season in Tempe becomes more than a few nights of decorations — it becomes a shared experience. It invites everyone to come together, enjoy the moment, and celebrate the season with warmth, kindness, and community spirit.
Sources: downtowntempe.com, tempemarketplace.com, downtowntempe.com
Header Image Source: downtowntempe.com
