Christmas light displays abound all across Arizona, but none quite compare to the splendor of the annual APS Electric Light Parade in Phoenix. You just have to see the eye-popping holiday cheer firsthand to believe it:

For over three decades, the APS Electric Light Parade has been uniting families, friends, businesses, and neighborhoods in an explosive celebration of the holiday season.
Facebook/City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department
The theme for the APS Light Parade in 2023 is, "It's Electric," so expect to see lots of exciting displays and other typical Arizona symbols.
Everything and everyone will be covered in lights from head to toe.
Facebook/City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department
Local high school bands decked out in festive attire play familiar jingles that signify Christmastime is here.
Talented dance teams will take to the streets and show off their moves.
Facebook/City of Phoenix Parks & Recreation Department
Intricate choreography creates a dazzling synchronized display guaranteed to leave your senses overwhelmed in the best way possible at this fun parade of lights in Phoenix.

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You'll instantly recognize characters from Nightmare Before Christmas and other iconic holiday films sitting tall and proud atop their respective floats.
Facebook/City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department
Get up close and personal with Jack, Sully, and the whole gang on the day before the parade. With games, arts & crafts, and Santa, it's fun for the whole family!
Let's not forget about the giant balloons!
Facebook/City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department
Elves, reindeer, and St. Nick himself soar high in the air and bring holiday cheer to all at the parade of lights in Arizona.
Feel free to bring a lawn chair and set up shop on the sidelines.
Facebook/City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department
Bonus points if a steamy mug of hot cocoa and warm blanket tag along for the ride. Oh, and don't forget to bundle up - we all know how chilly winter nights in the desert can be.
It all starts on the corner of Central and Montebello Avenues at 7 p.m. on December 2.
Facebook/City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department
The Christmas light parade in Arizona will last approximately two hours, coming to a stop on 7th Street and Indian School Road.

Visit the APS Electric Light Parade website to learn more.

Have you ever been to the APS Electric Light Parade? If so, we’d love to hear all about your favorite moments. If you’d like a sneak peek, take a look at this video footage from a previous year (but of course, it’s so much better to experience in person):

 

If you travel from out of town for this event, check out this colorful, remodeled historic duplex just blocks from downtown Phoenix for an overnight stay afterward.

Check out our previous article for another mesmerizing holiday parade: The One Arizona Village That Transforms Into A Christmas Wonderland Each Year.

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APS Electric Light Parade & Related Info

by AnneMarie | October 19, 2023

What are the best Christmas towns in Arizona?

The best Christmas towns in Arizona for experiencing the magic of the season include:

  • Flagstaff – Kids get a chance to meet Santa Claus at the North Pole Experience at the Little America Hotel
  • Glendale – Check out the Glendale Glitters event and others at this fun Christmas spot
  • Lake Havasu City – This is the place for those who love a little touch of Old World charm sprinkled into the holiday season.
  • Mesa – A variety of festive activities await in this part of the state.
  • Phoenix – The APS Electric Lights Parade is just the start of holiday fun in this city.

 

Learn more about these and other best Christmas towns in Arizona.

Are there any Christmas tree farms in Arizona?

If you’re looking for a Christmas tree farm in Arizona to find your tree this year, a few to consider include:

  • M & D Tree Farm in Kingman – A top-rated Mondell pine tree farm
  • The Christmas Tree Lot at Moon Valley Nurseries in Peoria – Trees are delivered from the farm within 48 hours of cutting to ensure the trees are fresh. Varieties include Noble Firs, Fraser Firs, Douglas Firs, and more in sizes that range from 3 to 15 feet.
  • Valley View Christmas Trees in Gilbert – Family-owned and operated, growing trees since 1980. You can have your tree delivered to you.
  • Wagner Christmas Trees in Scottsdale – Choose from among the freshest, premium-quality Christmas trees from a family-owned and operated Oregon tree farm (since 1963!).
  • Zeyn's Christmas Trees in Tucson – Also grown in Oregon, you’ll find Douglas Fir, Noble, and Nordmann Christmas trees here.

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