The APS Light Parade, established in 1986, was created to foster community spirit and spread holiday cheer throughout the city. Since its inception, the parade has experienced significant growth in both size and popularity, becoming a cherished tradition for locals and tourists. What began as a modest gathering of local businesses and organizations has transformed into an impressive spectacle of illumination, music, and artistic expression, attracting thousands of spectators annually.
The event has become integral to the city’s holiday celebrations, with participants and onlookers eagerly anticipating its arrival each year. Organizations continually introduce new floats, performances, and attractions to maintain their appeal. The APS Light Parade symbolizes community unity, bringing together people from diverse backgrounds to celebrate the holiday season.
It has established itself as a beloved annual tradition, creating enduring memories for families and bringing joy to all attendees.
Key Takeaways
- The APS Light Parade has been a beloved tradition in the community for over 30 years, bringing joy and holiday spirit to all who attend.
- Expect a dazzling display of lights, music, and creativity at the APS Light Parade 2023, which will feature various floats, marching bands, and performers.
- The best viewing spots for the APS Light Parade include Central Avenue, where spectators can enjoy the parade from the heart of downtown Phoenix and the surrounding streets for a more intimate experience.
- To participate in the APS Light Parade, individuals and groups can submit an application to showcase their own illuminated floats and performances.
- The APS Light Parade positively impacts the community, bringing people together and boosting local businesses during the holiday season.
- Tips for enjoying the APS Light Parade include arriving early to secure a good viewing spot, dressing warmly, and bringing snacks and drinks for the parade’s duration.
- The future of the APS Light Parade looks bright. Plans are to continue growing and evolving the event to provide even more entertainment and holiday cheer for years to come.
What to Expect at the APS Light Parade 2023
Floats Galore
The parade will feature various floats, including traditional holiday themes, whimsical designs, and innovative creations that will delight audiences of all ages.
Live Performances
In addition to the floats, spectators can look forward to performances by local bands, dance troupes, and other talented performers who bring the streets to life with their energy and enthusiasm. The APS Light Parade 2023 will also feature special appearances by beloved holiday characters, including Santa Claus.
A Grand Finale and More
The parade will culminate in a grand finale that is sure to leave spectators in awe. It will feature a spectacular display of lights and music that will capture the magic of the holiday season. Attendees can also expect a variety of food vendors and activities to enjoy before and after the parade, making it a full day of festive fun for everyone.
The Best Viewing Spots for the APS Light Parade
Finding the perfect viewing spot for the APS Light Parade is essential for getting the most out of this magical event. Several prime locations along the parade route offer great vantage points for spectators to enjoy the festivities. One popular viewing spot is along Central Avenue, where spectators can line the sidewalks and watch as the parade passes by in all its glory.
This area offers a lively atmosphere and plenty of room for families and friends to gather and enjoy the spectacle together. Another great viewing spot for the APS Light Parade is at Steele Indian School Park, where spectators can spread out on the grassy areas and enjoy a more relaxed viewing experience. This location offers a picturesque backdrop for the parade, with plenty of space for picnicking and enjoying the festivities with loved ones.
Additionally, the park provides easy access to restrooms and amenities, making it a convenient choice for families with young children or needing extra accommodations. No matter where you choose to watch the parade, arrive early to secure a good spot and take advantage of all the excitement leading up to the main event.
How to Participate in the APS Light Parade
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Register for the parade on the APS website |
| 2 | Receive confirmation and parade guidelines via email |
| 3 | Prepare your float or vehicle according to the guidelines |
| 4 | Arrive at the parade staging area at the designated time |
| 5 | Follow the designated route and enjoy the parade |
Participating in the APS Light Parade is a fantastic way to join this beloved tradition and share your creativity with the community. There are several ways to get involved in the parade, whether you are an individual, group, or organization looking to showcase your holiday spirit. One popular way to participate is by entering a float in the parade, which allows you to design and decorate a unique display that will be seen by thousands of spectators.
Float entries can range from traditional holiday themes to more creative and innovative designs, giving participants plenty of freedom to express themselves. Another way to participate in the APS Light Parade is by joining a walking group or performance troupe. This option allows individuals and organizations to showcase their talents and entertain the crowd with music, dance, or other forms of performance art.
Walking groups can also add fun by dressing up in festive costumes or carrying themed props that enhance the parade experience. Whether you choose to enter a float or participate as a walking group, the APS Light Parade is a wonderful way to contribute to the holiday spirit and make lasting memories with friends and family.
The Impact of the APS Light Parade on the Community
Since its inception, the APS Light Parade has significantly impacted the community, bringing people together and fostering a sense of unity and joy during the holiday season. The parade has become a beloved tradition that residents look forward to each year, creating a sense of anticipation and excitement throughout the city. In addition to providing entertainment and festive fun, the APS Light Parade also allows local businesses and organizations to showcase their creativity and connect with the community.
The parade has also had a positive economic impact on the city, drawing visitors from near and far who contribute to local businesses and tourism during the holiday season. The event has become a major attraction for tourists looking to experience the magic of the holidays uniquely and memorably. Additionally, the APS Light Parade has become a platform for charitable causes and community outreach, with many participants using their involvement in the parade to raise awareness and support for important issues.
Overall, the APS Light Parade has become an integral part of the community fabric, bringing people together and spreading joy and goodwill throughout the city.
Tips for Enjoying the APS Light Parade
Arrive Early and Plan Ahead
Be sure to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot along the parade route. This will give you plenty of time to find parking, get settled in, and take advantage of any pre-parade activities or entertainment that may be happening in the area.
Dress Warmly and Be Prepared
Dress warmly and come prepared for any type of weather. Since the parade is in winter, wearing layers and bringing along blankets or other cold-weather gear is important to stay comfortable throughout the event. Additionally, consider bringing snacks or hot beverages to enjoy while watching the parade and any other items you may need, such as folding chairs or portable seating.
Capture the Magic
Don’t forget to bring your camera or smartphone to capture all the magical moments of the parade. Whether you’re taking photos or videos, having a way to document your experience will allow you to relive the memories for years to come. By following these tips, you can make the most of your time at the APS Light Parade and create lasting memories with friends and family.
The Future of the APS Light Parade
As the APS Light Parade grows in popularity and significance, its future looks bright, with endless possibilities for expansion and innovation. The parade has become an iconic event that brings people from all walks of life, creating a sense of unity and joy that resonates throughout the community. Looking ahead, there are many opportunities for the APS Light Parade to continue evolving and captivating audiences with new attractions and experiences.
One exciting prospect for the future of the APS Light Parade is the potential for technological advancements that could enhance the parade experience. This could include incorporating interactive elements such as augmented reality or digital displays into the floats and performances, creating an even more immersive and engaging experience for spectators. Additionally, there is potential for expanding the parade route or adding new locations to accommodate growing attendance and interest in the event.
Another exciting possibility for the future of the APS Light Parade is increased collaboration with local artists, performers, and organizations to bring fresh perspectives and creativity to the event. By partnering with diverse groups within the community, the parade can continue to showcase new talent and cultural influences that reflect the city’s rich diversity. This could include incorporating new music genres, dance styles, or visual arts into the parade lineup, creating an even more dynamic and inclusive experience for all who attend.
In conclusion, the APS Light Parade has become an integral part of the holiday season in this city, bringing people together in celebration of joy, creativity, and community spirit. With its rich history and bright future ahead, this beloved tradition continues to inspire wonder and delight in all who attend. Whether you’re participating in the parade or watching from the sidelines, there’s no doubt that this magical event will continue to create lasting memories for generations to come.
FAQs
What is the APS Light Parade 2023?
The APS Light Parade 2023 is an annual event organized by APS (Arizona Public Service) to celebrate the holiday season with a parade featuring illuminated floats, marching bands, and other festive displays.
When and where will the APS Light Parade 2023 take place?
The specific date and location for the APS Light Parade 2023 have not been announced yet. However, the parade typically takes place in downtown Phoenix, Arizona.
How can I participate in the APS Light Parade 2023?
Individuals and organizations interested in participating in the APS Light Parade 2023 can typically find information and registration details on the official APS website or by contacting the event organizers directly.
Is there an admission fee for the APS Light Parade 2023?
The APS Light Parade 2023 is usually free for spectators. However, certain designated seating areas or special events may require tickets or reservations.
What can I expect to see at the APS Light Parade 2023?
Attendees of the APS Light Parade 2023 can expect to see a variety of illuminated floats, marching bands, dance groups, and other festive displays, all decked out in holiday lights and decorations. The parade typically features a wide range of creative and colorful entries.
