Downtown Tucson Parade of Lights

For over 20 years, that Downtown Tucson Parade of Lights has hosted thousands of yearly holiday revelers. Offering everything from great live bands to glorious holiday-themed floats, the parade is one of the premier yearly events in Tucson. While they are keeping with the old, bringing the same fun concerts and activities that you know and love, they are ringing in the new, with an updated parade route and first ever holiday snowstorm!

When will the Downtown Tucson Parade of Lights Start?

The parade officially starts once the sun starts to drop, between 6pm and 7pm on Saturday, December 16th. For all my families out there with young ones, you’ll want to head downtown a bit early to take advantage of the amazing family activities.

Where will the Downtown Tucson Parade of Lights be in 2017?

New Downtown Tucson Parade of Lights Route

This year, the Downtown Tucson Parade of Lights is returning to it’s roots. The parade route will now revolve around Jacome Plaza, a fun location with a unique history and exciting future. The parade route used to be focused around Jacome Plaza before it was changed to go through the Sam Hughes neighborhoods. The planning committee is going back to the future to return the parade to its original home!

Jacome Plaza stands where an old department store called “Jacome’s” once stood. It was a staple of Downtown Tucson for many years and the entire plaza still bears it’s name. You can find Jacome Plaza behind the Joel D. Valdez Public Library in Downtown Tucson. Look for the fun artwork!

Will it Snow in Tucson for Christmas?

This Used to be the Only "Snow" in Downtown Tucson — This Used to be the Only “Snow” in Downtown Tucson

Probably not. I mean, it’s Tucson, after all 🙂 However, it will snow a bit earlier. It won’t be the light dusting you’re thinking, there is gonna be a full-fledged snowstorm right in the heart of Downtown Tucson!

Almost 3000 (!) gallons of ice are being shipped directly in to be shaved and used for the snowstorm. Bring your kids to Jacome Plaza in the early afternoon of Saturday, December 16th so they can join the fun Reindeer Games!

That Sounds Fun and all, but What About Some Gossip?

You didn’t hear this from me, but Santa might be making a special appearance. You might not know, but Downtown Tucson has it’s very own Nestle Tollhouse right across from Jacome Plaza. Our friends at Nestle are in talks to host a Santa’s Workshop on the Plaza, complete with learning activities and hot cocoa!

Why Wouldn’t I Go to the Downtown Tucson Parade of Lights?

Great question! I can’t think of a single reason! There is something for everyone to enjoy from the kiddies to the grandparents. The young ones will marvel at the snowstorm and they will love the time they get to spend with Santa in his Workshop. Young adults will enjoy the live bands and the wonderful lights of the parade. Us old folks can sit back and enjoy the holiday spirit. I can’t wait to see you there!

Have a great day!
TonyRay 🙂