Prescott, Arizona, is a charming town that transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. The Prescott AZ Christmas Parade is a beloved annual event that kicks off the festive season with floats, marching bands, and of course, a special visit from Santa Claus. If you're planning to attend the parade, here are 5 ways to make the most of your experience.
Experience the Magic of the Holiday Season
Prescott's Christmas Parade is a magical event that brings the community together to celebrate the holiday season. The parade features a variety of floats, each one more elaborate and festive than the last. You'll see local businesses, schools, and community groups showcase their holiday spirit with creative displays of lights, decorations, and even live performances.
Get into the Holiday Spirit with Live Music and Entertainment
The Prescott AZ Christmas Parade is more than just a procession of floats – it's a full-on holiday extravaganza. You'll be treated to live music and entertainment throughout the parade, including marching bands, choirs, and even dance performances. The energy is infectious, and you can't help but get into the holiday spirit as you watch the performances.
Make it a Family-Friendly Event
The Prescott AZ Christmas Parade is a family-friendly event that's perfect for all ages. Kids will love the festive atmosphere, and the parade features plenty of kid-friendly activities, including face painting, balloon twisting, and of course, a visit from Santa Claus. You can also make it a fun and memorable experience for your little ones by dressing them up in their favorite holiday outfits.
Enjoy the Local Flavor and Hospitality
Prescott is known for its small-town charm and hospitality, and the Christmas Parade is no exception. You'll find plenty of local vendors and food stalls serving up delicious holiday treats, including hot chocolate, cookies, and even traditional Arizona cuisine. Be sure to try some of the local flavors and drinks to make your parade experience even more special.
Plan Ahead and Make a Day of It
To make the most of your Prescott AZ Christmas Parade experience, plan ahead and make a day of it. Arrive early to secure a good spot along the parade route, and be sure to check out some of the local shops and attractions in downtown Prescott. You can also make it a fun and festive day out with friends and family by booking a holiday-themed lunch or dinner at one of the local restaurants.
Top Tips for Attending the Prescott AZ Christmas Parade
To ensure you have a fun and memorable experience at the Prescott AZ Christmas Parade, here are some top tips to keep in mind:
- Arrive Early: Get to the parade route early to secure a good spot and avoid the crowds.
- Dress Warmly: It can get chilly in Prescott during the winter months, so be sure to dress warmly and bring blankets or chairs to stay cozy.
- Bring Cash: Some vendors and food stalls may only accept cash, so be sure to bring some with you.
- Be Prepared for Crowds: The parade can get crowded, so be prepared for large numbers of people and plan accordingly.
- Have Fun!: Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the festive atmosphere!
Prescott AZ Christmas Parade Schedule and Route
The Prescott AZ Christmas Parade typically takes place on the first Saturday of December and starts at 1 pm. The parade route runs through downtown Prescott, starting at the corner of Gurley Street and Montezuma Street and ending at the Prescott Courthouse.
Make it a Holiday Weekend Getaway
If you're planning to attend the Prescott AZ Christmas Parade, why not make it a holiday weekend getaway? Prescott has plenty of accommodation options, ranging from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxury hotels. You can also explore the surrounding area, including the Prescott National Forest, Watson Lake, and the Granite Dells.
Top Things to Do in Prescott During the Holiday Season
Here are some top things to do in Prescott during the holiday season:
- Visit the Prescott Courthouse: The Prescott Courthouse is a beautiful historic building that's decorated with festive lights and decorations during the holiday season.
- Take a Holiday Lights Tour: Prescott offers a self-guided holiday lights tour that takes you through some of the most festively decorated neighborhoods in town.
- Go Ice Skating: The Prescott Ice Skating Rink is open during the holiday season and offers public skating sessions, ice hockey leagues, and even ice skating lessons.
- Attend a Holiday Concert or Show: Prescott has a thriving arts scene, and during the holiday season, you can catch a variety of concerts, shows, and performances at the Prescott Center for the Arts.
Getting to Prescott
Prescott is located in central Arizona, about 100 miles northwest of Phoenix. You can fly into Prescott Regional Airport (PRC) or drive from Phoenix or other surrounding cities.
Prescott AZ Christmas Parade FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Prescott AZ Christmas Parade:
- When is the Prescott AZ Christmas Parade?: The parade typically takes place on the first Saturday of December.
- What time does the parade start?: The parade starts at 1 pm.
- Where does the parade take place?: The parade takes place in downtown Prescott, starting at the corner of Gurley Street and Montezuma Street and ending at the Prescott Courthouse.
- Is the parade free to attend?: Yes, the parade is free to attend and open to the public.
What is the best way to get to the parade route?
+The best way to get to the parade route is to park in one of the public parking lots in downtown Prescott and walk to the parade route. There are also plenty of parking options available along the parade route.
Can I bring my dog to the parade?
+Yes, dogs are welcome at the parade, but please keep them on a leash and clean up after them.
Will there be food and drink vendors at the parade?
+Yes, there will be plenty of food and drink vendors along the parade route, offering a variety of holiday treats and refreshments.