Posts Tagged ‘holiday lights’

Holiday Calendar Taking Shape at CityScape

Tuesday, November 9th, 2010

Fresh off a monster Block Party Weekend that delivered 30,000 people to the mixed-use entertainment and retail district over a three-day period, CityScape officials on Tuesday shed light on numerous events planned for its first holiday season in Downtown Phoenix.

November 27 / Tree Lighting Ceremony &  Skating Rink Opening

An ice rink? In the desert? Yup, that’s right, CityScape is bringing a Rockefeller Center-style ice rink to the new Patriot’s Park later this month. Having contracted a firm out of Tempe that specializes in putting real ice where it doesn’t necessarily belong, CityScape officials say construction will begin soon that will transform the interior plaza into a faux winter wonderland complete with holiday tree that the public is encouraged to help decorate with homemade or donated ornaments.   (Note: This promises to be a huge night in Downtown with comedian Jim Gaffigan performing at Comerica Theater and Roger Waters playing US Airways Center.)

block partyDecember 3 / 26 Blocks & Ear Candy Productions Charity Event Sponsored by Apple

Details are still emerging, but CityScape officials say they are in talks with four Valley radio stations to bring a “major musical act” to this event, which will benefit Ear Candy Productions, a local charity that puts musical instruments in the hands of in-need youth. Apple will also be on hand to help unveil a new 26 Blocks iPhone application. Block Party Weekend left no doubt that CityScape is more than capable of hosting a big-time concert (see the inset photo of Friday’s Macy Gray crowd, courtesy of CityScape), so the Downtown community will be eagerly awaiting updates on who might play this event.

December 17 / Festive Fridays

Join the Downtown Ambassadors and CityScape as they celebrate the holiday season from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Enjoy music, games, food and fun at this completely FREE event.

December 31 / New Year’s Eve Bash

Officials confirmed that CityScape will host a New Year’s Eve party. Juicy details coming soon.

In addition, CityScape hosts a free concert series every Friday night. Visit CityScape online for details.

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Best Holiday Lights Downtown

Wednesday, December 23rd, 2009

“Turn off those extra lights,” my dad told me. I had a feeling he was right, and then Al Gore confirmed it for me. During the holidays, though, it’s understandable if we all go a little nutty for things that plug in and sparkle.

So, without any further delay, here are some of the most dazzling light displays in Downtown Phoenix and a few reasons to go see them:

ArizonaCenterLightsMost Romantic

The gardens at the Arizona Center are always romantic, but this time of year, they’re nothing less than magical. At night, brilliantly colored lights illuminate the trees and walkways like day-glow fireflies. Take someone you love – or heck, someone you kind of like – and watch the effect.  No mistletoe is needed.

Biggest Home Electric Bill

Bob Rix must be one tired guy. This intrepid, hard-working Phoenician created front and backyard displays with animation, carved-out characters and 56,000 lights set to music. I just have to say that again: 56,000 lights. 1517 E. Brill Street.

Best Neighborhood Decorations

There aren’t any specific winners, but the historic districts are even more beautiful at the holidays. Take some time to drive – quietly, of course – through the Coronado District, F.Q. Story, Garfield, Willo and Encanto-Palmcroft, where many of my dream homes happen to be.

Thomas Edison Would Be Proud

At Heritage and Science Park, they know a thing or two about electricity, and it shows. Check out the lovely Christmas tree in front of the Arizona Science Center and stop by the Rosson House, which is aglow with lights and decorations.

Point of Pride

The U.S. Capitol Christmas tree is an 85-foot blue spruce from Arizona’s Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. When the tree lighting took place, the Arizona Congressional delegation and 12-year-old Kaitlyn Ferencik of Surprise, Ariz., were present. I know, it’s not Downtown, but I just thought you’d like to know.

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