What's Happening in Chandler, AZ…

Chandler is already planning two events that are hallmarks of the holiday season: a parade and a tree lighting.

Along with gingerbread and hot chocolate, residents of Chandler celebrate the season by putting up a tumbleweed tree. The tradition began when Earl Barnum, a resident of Chandler, saw a tree made of chicken wire put together in a cone shape and stuffed with pine branches. Chandler residents helped him put together the first tumbleweed Christmas tree in 1957.

Today's tree comprises almost 1,000 tumbleweeds that are attached to a framework 25 feet tall, sprayed white, sprayed again with a flame retardant material, and sprinkled with 65lb of glitter. Later, almost 1,200 lights are added.

In addition to watching the tree lighting, people can visit Santa's House, or go to Santa' Workshop where elves of all ages will be able to make their own holiday ornaments. In addition to putting ornaments on the Tumbleweed Tree, people can also write and mail letters to Santa. Games including laser tag and an area devoted to giant inflatables are planned, as are pony rides. The Chandler Fire Department is collecting new, unwrapped toys for local children.

If all that weren't enough, there is also the Parade of Lights the same evening.

The Annual Tumbleweed Tree Lighting is scheduled for December 5, from 4:30 pm until 9:00 pm, in Downtown Chandler. The Parade of Lights takes place from 6:45 pm until 8:00 pm. Banner printing can provide decorations for events like this.