5 Tips to Make the Most of This Year’s Parade of Lights

The Grand Junction Parade of Lights is coming up this Saturday. Get the entire family together, and make an evening of this incredible show. Here are five tips which ensure this will be the best downtown event ever.

The annual Parade of Lights will make its way down Main Street starting at 5:00 p.m. This year's theme: Pedaling Into The Holidays.

Please note - parking along the parade route is not allowed after 3:00 p.m. on December 5. Cars left along the parade route will be towed to another location downtown. Owners can then pick up their vehicles at no cost.

During December, downtown parking is free, including the parking garage at 4th and Rood.

To get the most out of this year's parade, here are five suggestions:

• Dress warm - warmer than you may think you need to. The temperature can quickly drop, and cement benches get cold fast. Dress warm, then put on another layer.
• Visit a downtown restaurant. The eateries on Main Street will gear up for the parade. Visiting one of the many great downtown restaurants is a perfect prelude to the show.
• Get in a little shopping before the parade. Some merchants will stay open later during the Parade of Lights.
• Keep the kids close. Kids may become fascinated by the big trucks, emergency vehicles, and flashing lights. Keep the kids close, and use crosswalks. The parade route is set up well so everyone can stay safe.
• Keep your eyes wide open. You may see someone you know participating in the parade. Chances are you'll see several people you know.
• ***Bonus suggestion: bring your sweet tooth. Many floats will have "walkers" handing out candy and treats. Keep an eye out for walkers with bags of candy, and wave them your way.

Don't miss this fun, entertaining, and family-friendly event.

Please don't forget about that relative or neighbor who might like to go, but may not have transportation of their own. Bring the entire bunch, and enjoy this amazing Western Colorado tradition.