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.

CLEAR BAG POLICY IN EFFECT

All guests must follow the clear bag policy for entry.

View Approved Bag Types

Festive Fun To Explore

Boat Parade Down Tempe Town Lake

Live Music & Entertainment

Shop the Holiday Market

Roaming Entertainment

Photos with Santa

Food Truck, Snack & Drink Vendors

Beer & Wine Gardens

Write Letters to Santa

Firework Finale

Get Involved Event Applications Volunteer Sponsor

Holiday Magic Captured

Food & Drink Vendors

Britt's Cafecito Y Chisme

Iced coffee, matcha, chai, lemonade, green tea, and energy drinks.

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Ohana Hawaiian BBQ

Hawaiian BBQ Chicken or Beef Teriyaki Bowls & Spam Musubis

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Trash Panda Vegan

Vegan dishes like Crispy Mushroom Tenders on Mac n Cheez, Chikn Mac n Cheez, Elote Bowls & Wingz!

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28 Still Cooking On Wheels

Fried seasoned catfish, BBQ ribs and more!

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Island Boyz Jerk Spot

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

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White Mountain Food Co.

Giant Loaded Curly Fries & Funnel Cakes

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Fuel Yall Coffee

Carefully sourced brews, fresh-made pastries, and inclusive options like our delicious vegan treats.

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Tehran LLC

Persian Kabobs, Gyro, Burgers & More!

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Guac On Up Food Truck

Gourmet, scratch-made sandwiches from a Cubano, BLTG, Lollie with Pastrami, Stacked Grilled Cheese or even their Guac Toast with an Egg!

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Hot Sauce and Pepper

Vegan soul food serving comfort classics like mac & cheeze, smothered fries, loaded sandwiches & fresh, seasonal sides!

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Big Mamma's Desserts

Fresh made desserts like bread pudding, cobbler, tiramisu, banana pudding, key lime pie, hot chocolate and more!

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The Dog Father Gourmet Hot Dogs & More

The Dog Father will make you a hot dog you can't refuse! Specializing in regional faves like Chicago, Sonoran, NYC and more!

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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, enjoy a variety of food and snack vendors, beer and wine gardens, and more!

4:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Entertainment on the main stage from DJ Nasdak

5:30 PM – 9:00 PM: Take photos with Santa and write letters to the North Pole

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

Immediately following the parade: Firework finale starts

9:00 PM: Event ends