We are building a stronger community

Our programming is designed to engage our residents and visitors with the downtown. We curate the programs and activations to ensure that there are opportunities for families, retirees, young professionals and everyone in between. And we need your support to make this happen. Support Our Efforts because you believe in Downtown Tempe and the urban, walkable environment. Or support one or more of our events. Check out all the opportunities below and know that we will customize any sponsorship, or combine activations across multiple events, to meet the goals of your company. 

Tempe Festival of the Arts

This spring will be the 40th Annual Spring Festival and December will mark the 49th Annual Fall Festival. Each festival attracts over 300 artisans from across the country that very much enjoy spending a few days in Tempe. The event is complimented by live entertainment, community participation of local arts venues, a hyper local makers section, kids programming, great food vendors and multiple beer and wine gardens.

It is a large scale event that takes hundreds of volunteers and a great deal of sponsorships to continue.

WHY? Because communities need long running events to create a sense of place. This isn't about the art, per se, it's about the connectivity to people who put their passion into their lives and then graciously share it with us. It's about honoring that in a community place together.  SPONSORSHIP DECK

 

Fantasy of Lights

For decades, families have come to the two unique Fantasy of Lights events. 

We kick off the holiday season with the Opening Night Parade which is an evening street parade that circles around Downtown Tempe.  

Two weeks later we do something that only we can do - a Boat Parade - on Tempe Town Lake. The boat parade features around 40 decked out boats motoring in procession around Tempe Town Lake, followed by fireworks. SPONSORSHIP DECK

WHY? Because tradition is important. Generations have attended this parade with their children. There is no better place to see hundreds of children with a look of wonderment.

 

State of Downtown

This is our annual meeting, it isn't your grandpa's annual meeting. Each year we find a unique venue to use to showcase what's happening in Downtown Tempe and the strides we have made to increase the success of this urban district. We do what we do to make each of our owners and businesses see a return. At this event, we take an opportunity to share all of that fun data (don't worry it's never boring) and programmatic accomplishments. Tickets will be on sale September 1st.  SPONSORSHIP DECK

WHY?  Because recognizing our accomplishments is a must and we want you to know how hard we work!

 

6th Street Market

In October 2016, we started a new weekly activation in the park that surrounds City Hall. Each Sunday, join us from 10am to 4pm for an artisan, maker, craft market. Purchase unique items from local artists and creative entrepreneurs. Then of course, stay in downtown for lunch, brunch, a movie or shopping!  SPONSORSHIP DECK

WHY? Because we believe that connecting to the local artists brings a richness that can't otherwise be found. Downtown is a place of creative cultivation and we want these local artists to thrive. And because you can't get this cool stuff at a mall.

 

Tempe Music Walk

Tempe has a history rich with local music. It's time to recognize this and celebrate those artists and groups that contributed to the vibe of Downtown Tempe. We hope that over time the local music scene will grow and musicians will flock to the venues located here. 

Currently there are two plaques in our Music Walk, which began in 2014. We hope to install a third in 2016. 

Past honorees: Walt Richardson & Gin Blossoms.

WHY? Because recognizing where we have been and those that inspired us, gives us a stable platform to move forward.

 

Tempe Young Professionals

Last year we began convening young professionals for three reasons, 1) we just thought they should know each other 2) we want them to love Downtown Tempe and never want to work anywhere else and 3) we believe that they want to give back to their community if given the opportunity. 

Today the group meets up every other month to socialize and unwind and they are working on projects that will improve our downtown. The gathering spots rotate and we are always looking for a host that wants to show off their location.

WHY? Because young people are less connected now than they have ever been. Their jobs are demanding, their lives are fast paced, and they are plugged in all the time. Giving them opportunities to find camaraderie and fellowship, is priceless. Connecting that to our downtown creates loyalty.