Chandler's holiday tradition is rolling back into town with its unique desert twist. According to a news release, the 69th annual Tumbleweed Tree Lighting & Parade of Lights is set to illuminate Downtown Chandler on Dec. 6, free of charge for all attendees. Preceding the evening's main events, an array of performances will delight crowds from 4:30 p.m. at the historical Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, where groups like Just Dance, Arizona Dance Studio, and Vocal Connection Chorus set the stage for the brilliant proceedings to follow.
Kicking off at 6:45 p.m., the parade promises over 50 entries, each alight with the joy and spectacle of the season. Wrapped in more than 1,200 LED lights, the Tumbleweed Tree stands ready to make its dazzling 69th debut at approximately 8 p.m., after the parade concludes. Arriving early to Downtown Chandler, visitors can indulge in local dining and shops, preparing for the light-up spectacle with a renown reaching from Travel Channel features to being lampooned on Saturday Night Live.
The tree, towering at 35 feet and dressed in nearly 1,000 tumbleweeds adorned in glitter and white paint, is also safely prepped with fire retardant. While wandering through Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, families can write letters to Santa, visit a life-sized gingerbread house display, and there's even an inflatable bounce area for the kids, selling tickets to support downtown improvements.
According to the City of Chandler, contributing to the spirit of giving, attendees are invited to help "Stuff the Fire Truck" with toys, aiding the Chandler Fire Department in bringing smiles to local children on Christmas. Found parked on Arizona Place from 4:30-9 p.m., the truck eagerly awaits those gracious enough to contribute, offering a beacon of hope and generosity amid the festive cheer.
For those planning to view the parade, it begins at City Hall, heading north on Arizona Avenue and culminates at Chandler High School. It's advised to bring chairs and blankets and to secure a prime viewing spot along the route before it gets too crowded. Parking is free, with garages located on both sides of Arizona Avenue, and the Oregon Street garage provides the most ample space. To navigate the assured street closures and access information on parking, a visit to the event's website will prove most enlightening, as revelers journey to witness the holiday tree made of tumbleweeds.
The Tumbleweed Tree festivities are brought to the community through partnerships with civic organizations like the Chandler Lions Club and local businesses such as Apex Windows & Bath. A reminder to the public, the tree – a seasonal icon – will continue to sparkle through the valley till Jan. 4, 2026, ensuring that this symbol of Chandler's community and creativity holds the gaze of Arizonans and visitors alike for quite the extended holiday season.
