Festival FAQs
Festival Basics
Where is the Winterhaven Festival of Lights located?
The Festival takes place in the historic Winterhaven Neighborhood, located near Country Club Rd & Fort Lowell Rd in central Tucson, AZ.
What are the festival dates and hours?
The 2025 Festival runs nightly from December 13–27, 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
Is the event free?
Yes! Admission is free, but a suggested donation is encouraged to support the Community Food Bank and festival infrastructure
Parking & Getting There
Parking and Transportation Details >
Where can I park?
Visit our official Parking Guide announced on December 1 for a live map of approved lots. We’ve partnered with local businesses, schools, and churches to provide Official Festival Parking with clear signage, ADA access, and safety lighting.
Is there shuttle service?
We are currently looking for partners who would like to run a paid service for shuttling. If you are interested in participating, please fill out the online application here. https://saaca.formstack.com/forms/winterhaven_festival_of_lights_2025_parking_lot_shuttle_partner_application
Can I park on residential streets?
No. Neighborhood parking is restricted to protect residents and ensure emergency access. Cars parked illegally may be ticketed or towed.
How do I become an Official Parking or Shuttle for Fee Partner?
Businesses, churches, or property owners near the festival can apply online to be listed on the official map and receive signage kits and promotion for your parking lot to help promote.
Apply to become a parking or shuttle partner >
Trolley & Wagon Rides
Are trolleys and wagons running this year?
We currently do not have any vendors, other than Arizona Party Bike who have applied to participate as a transport partner.
Arizona Party Bikes website >
Can my business provide wagon rides?
Yes! Apply online to become an official trolley or wagon service partner. You must comply with route, insurance, and safety guidelines.
Trolley, Bus, Wagon Vendor Application >
Community Food Bank Donations
How can I donate to the Community Food Bank at the Festival?
• Make a cashless donation using QR codes posted throughout the festival or online in advance.
• Donate online at: winterhavenfestival.org
• Bring non-perishable food to any entrance
What’s the 2025 fundraising goal?
Winterhaven aims to raise $60,000 in cash donations and collect tens of thousands of pounds of food to support families in need through funding the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona as the primary beneficiary of the event. Check back soon for a link to make a donation to the Community Food Bank Online Here. 
Volunteering
How can I volunteer?
We welcome volunteers for donation collection, info tents, neighborhood support, and setup/cleanup.
Volunteer Opportunities and Sign up >
Is training provided?
Yes. Volunteers will receive orientation materials and onsite guidance.
Sponsorship
How can my business become a sponsor?
Visit our Sponsor Page to view full sponsorship packages and sign up.
What are some sponsorship options?
• $500 – Friend of the Festival
• $5,000 – Special Event Sponsor
• $10,000 – Street Sponsor
• $25,000 – Themed Night Sponsor
• $40,000+ – Title Sponsor (Held by Tucson Electric Power)
Sponsorships include opportunities for branding, booths, signage, media exposure, and social media features.
Food & Vendors
Are food vendor spots still available?
No. All 2025 food vendor spaces are sold out. You may apply to be added to our 2026 interest list here
Can I set up as an unofficial vendor?
No. Unauthorized vending on private property is prohibited. Only approved vendors with permission and insurance are allowed. Please respect festival boundaries
Accessibility & Assisted Living Access
Are there accessible restrooms and pathways?
Yes. Expanded portable restrooms, better pathway lighting, and designated ADA areas are in place throughout the festival
Are there special hours for assisted living communities?
Yes. Special Thanks to our sponsor, Watermark Communities, who have underwritten Drive-through nights for assisted living buses are December 15 and 17, with designated access from 5:30–6:30 PM.
Assisted Living Drive-through Night Details & Application >
Event Policies
What is the solicitation policy?
Solicitation, unapproved signage, political or religious messaging, or pamphlet distribution is not allowed within festival grounds. This is a private event held in a residential neighborhood community.
What should I do if I see a problem or need help?
Visit the Winterhaven Info Tent, located centrally in the neighborhood, for lost-and-found, first aid, or general questions.
Is the event dog-friendly?
Yes, but dogs must be leashed, well-behaved, and cleaned up after. Please be mindful of crowds and lights.
Weather, Safety & Emergencies
What happens in bad weather?
The event operates rain or shine, but in cases of extreme weather, updates will be posted on our website and social media.
Are there security personnel?
Yes. There will be roaming security, entrance monitors, and trained volunteers each night to ensure safety