Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade

December 13, 2025
Tempe Beach Park
4:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Each December, Tempe Town Lake becomes the most magical place in the Valley as the Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade sets sail. This free, family-friendly tradition draws thousands to the waterfront to experience a night of lights, music, and holiday cheer under the stars.

The event features a festive holiday market with local vendors, live entertainment throughout the evening, and plenty of seasonal eats and treats. Write letters to Santa, snap a photo with the big guy himself, and grab a cozy drink while you wait for the main event — a dazzling boat parade featuring vessels decked out in holiday lights, inflatable characters, and creative themes.

After the parade, the celebration ends with a stunning fireworks show over the lake — a crowd favorite and the perfect way to wrap up a night filled with festive fun.

IMPORTANT POLICIES & EVENT INFORMATION

All guests must follow the clear bag policy for entry.

Parking, Transportation & Road Closures View Clear Bag Policy

Festive Fun To Explore

Boat Parade Down Tempe Town Lake

Live Music & Entertainment

Shop the Holiday Market

Photos with Santa

Food Truck, Snack & Drink Vendors

Beer & Wine Gardens

Write Letters to Santa

Firework Finale

Holiday Magic Captured

Food & Drink Vendors

Yellowman Fry Bread

Authentic fry bread in sweet or savory combinations.

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Fuel Yall Coffee

Carefully sourced brews, fresh-made pastries, and delicious vegan treats.

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28 Still Cooking On Wheels

Fried seasoned catfish, BBQ ribs and more!

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The Salted Knot

Award-winning, hand-twisted pretzels & dipping sauces.

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White Mountain Food Co.

Giant Loaded Curly Fries & Funnel Cakes

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Hot Bamboo

Handcrafted character steamed buns, rice bowls, dumplings and more.

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Ohana Hawaiian BBQ

Hawaiian BBQ Chicken or Beef Teriyaki Bowls & Spam Musubis

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Mochinut

Combination of American donuts and Japanese mochi.

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Honey Bears BBQ

Authentic BBQ dishes and hearty sides.

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Mustache Pretzels

Fun, handmade pretzels in a mustache shape - comes in multiple flavors!

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Island Boyz Jerk Spot

Jerk Burritos, Jerk Fries or Jerk Bowls (Chicken, Shrimp or Pork)

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Churrolicious

Fresh churros loaded with toppings and drizzles, plus delicious made-to-order drinks.

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Event Schedule

4:00 PM: Tempe Beach Park opens for holiday shopping, free DIY gift wrapping, photos with Santa, write letters to the North Pole, live entertainment from DJ Nasdak, enjoy a variety of food and snack vendors, beer and wine gardens, and more!

7:00 PM: Boat parade starts on Tempe Town Lake

8:15 PM: Firework finale starts

9:00 PM: Event ends