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Phoenix illuminated: Here's everything you need to know about the 36th annual APS Electric Light Parade

The parade will begin at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 2, and will follow a 2.3 mile route through central Phoenix.

PHOENIX — The City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department and APS Electric are preparing for the 36th annual APS Electric Light Parade which will illuminate central Phoenix on Saturday, Dec. 2. 

From parking to the parade route, here is everything you need to know to have an evening full of electric family fun. 

Road closures and parade route

Road closures along the parade route will begin early Saturday. Parade attendees are encouraged to get a spot along the route early and expect traffic delays in central Phoenix.

The 2.3 mi. parade route starts at Central Avenue and Montebello Avenue, travels south to Central Avenue and Camelback Road, heads east along Camelback Road to 7th Street and continues south along 7th Street to its conclusion at Indian School Road. The first parade floats will begin moving at 7 p.m. and will take about 60 minutes to reach the end.  

Spots along the parade route will fill with spectators quickly, organizers predict. Spots are available on a first-come, first-served basis. It is suggested that spectators arrive a few hours before the parade starts to reserve a spot.

Parking

Parking will be available on city streets around the parade route and is on a first-come, first-served basis. Private lots near the parade area often offer parking for a fee. Organizers suggest using the Light Rail to ease traffic congestion. The parade route runs near the Light Rail stop at Central Avenue, just south of Camelback Road.

About the event

The parade is a rain-or-shine event. Last year, spectators braved the rain to be a part of the more than 30 year tradition in Phoenix. 

Spectators are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs for seating. We are expecting mild weather in Phoenix Saturday afternoon, with a high of 63. Lows will dip into the mid-40s after the sun goes down. 

RELATED: Check the forecast for Arizona here before heading to the parade

Coolers are permitted on the parade route but alcohol and glass containers are prohibited. Spectators are asked to minimize trash to ease post-event cleanup.


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