It is time again for our FREE Shred-A-Thon! 

Free Shred-A-Thon Aril 27, 2019 at Kyrene Monte Vista Elementary School in Ahwatukee

Join Shirley Coomer and Gregory Stainton of Keller Williams Realty Sonoran Living for their semi-annual Shred-A-Thon.

When:        Saturday, April 27, 2019 

Where:       Kyrene Monte Vista Elementary School

                   15221 S Ray Rd, Phoenix, Az  (Ahwatukee)

Time:          9 AM – 11 AM

Cost:          The Shred-A-Thon is free 

This Shred-A-Thon is sponsored as a community service.  Additionally, this event was established to prevent identity theft by providing a twice a year shredding opportunity.  Also, this is a convenient way for local residents to shred unneeded documents at a convenient location.

A-1 Shredding of Phoenix donates their services. So don’t miss the  Free Shred-A-Thon April 27, 2019, at Kyrene Monte Vista elementary school.

Shirley & Gregory ask for a food donation for the Kyrene Resource Center.   The Kyrene Family Resource Center provides food for Kyrene Families.  Also, this center is also a  resource for families of Kyrene students in need of clothes, hygiene items, etc.

This April, we are again collecting  healthy snacks for students

(cereal bars, granola bars, individual packets of goldfish) in addition to the items below:

Food Items now needed:

• Canned meats, tuna, peanut butter
• Pasta, Pasta sauce, rice, dried beans,
• Top Ramen, cereal, Mac & cheese

Don’t miss this FREE Shred-A-Thon April 27, 2019, at Kyrene Monte Vista elementary school and keep your identity safe!

This Shred-A-Thon is sponsored by Shirley Coomer and Gregory Stainton.  Additionally, they hold the Shred-A-thons each April and October to give back to the Kyrene community.  Shirley and Gregory’s children attended the highly rated Kyrene schools. They are passionate about supporting the Foundation through many fundraising events.  As local Realtors with Keller Williams Realty Sonoran Living, they know first hand how identity theft can affect home buyers when they apply for home loans. Therefore, it is important for everyone to be sure to securely destroy documents which contain any personal information.

Those attending the Shred-A-Thon are asked to donate non-perishable food.  Additionally, the food is critical to helping the Kyrene Resource Center meet the needs of many of the Kyrene District’s families in need.   Kyrene Family Resource Center is supported by the Kyrene Foundation.  The Resource Center is located at  Kyrene de los Ninos Elementary school located at 1330 E Dava Dr, Tempe Az  85283.

Free Shred-A-Thon April 27, at Kyrene Monte Vista Elementary school

The Kyrene Family Resource Center is open to any family with a student enrolled in the Kyrene School District. Their mission is “removing barriers to learning” and the resources provided support that mission.

Shirley Coomer and Gregory Stainton look forward to seeing you at their Free Shred-A-Thon April 27, 2019 in Ahwatukee at Kyrene Monte Vista Elementary school

Contact the Shirley Coomer Group at Keller Williams Realty Sonoran Living

Call or Text: 602-770-0643 for more real estate information.

Please follow and like us:

Pet Care Guide For Phoenix East Valley

Please follow and like us:

Should a seller be allowed to stay in a house even after closing for a few days?

There are times when sellers want to remain in their house after the close of escrow.  Why would they want to do this?  They may be closing a few days later on a home they are purchasing and want to avoid a double move.  They might have an unexpected delay in a mover schedule.  There could be a last-minute delay with their loan on a home being purchased.  This may also be a situation negotiated as part of the purchase contract where a buyer wants to close on a property to ensure they own the house and aren’t moving for a few weeks and collecting rent for several days after closing is appealing.

I have had clients, both as sellers and as buyers in this situation. While I always try to avoid this situation for many reasons, there are times when this is a better alternative for a client than putting household items in storage and staying at a hotel or with family for a period of time and paying for a double move.

Some Real Estate brokerages to not allow for post possession documents as part of the real estate transaction. That means any agreements would be made by the buyer and seller without the assistance of their Realtors.  In Arizona post possession is legal and my brokerage does allow this with the property documentation. (though my Keller Williams broker  prefers we not to do this)

If the home seller is to remain in the house for an extended period of time, a better option is to have the buyer and seller draw up a rental agreement.  The “Post Possession” option is generally used for a short period such as a few days or weeks, not extended periods.

Five Key Factors For Post Possession

1.  Agreement by Owner and Seller – Obviously this has to be agreed to by all parties.

2.  “Post Possession “  document -This is the document which states the rights and responsibilities of the owner and occupant during the post possession period,  never just a verbal agreement.

3.  Former owner Obtains Rental/Liability policy – The party remaining in the property is required to obtain a rental insurance policy that includes liability sufficient to cover the property with the owner as an “also named” on the policy.  This allows the owner to file a claim on the property should there be damage and the claim goes on the claim history of the renter, not the owner.  This type of policy is prudent for any landlord to make part of a normal rental in the event a renter damages a house.  With the owner named on the policy, should the renter cancel the policy, the owner is notified.  If the occupant burns down the house, the liability claim goes against the occupant’s insurance claim history report (which insurers look at in determining risk which in turn determines insurance rates).  The owner’s claim history will not reflect this insurance claim according to Rebecca Kossmann of Liberty Mutual Insurance.

4. Security Deposit – The new owner should require a security deposit.  This can be held by the title company and refunded after the occupant moves out and the new owner confirms the property is in the same condition as it was at the close of escrow.

5. Rental Payment – Determine the rent to be paid by the seller. The amount collected may be the going rental rate prorated for the number of days the house is occupied.  There may be no rent collected if the occupancy was taken into consideration as part of the sale price of the house.

With planning most buyers and sellers can avoid this situation, however, we all know that even with impeccable planning unexpected situations do come up.  Sometimes a buyer or seller must have a particular closing date, not to their liking but necessary to meet the contract needs of another party.

We all want our clients to have a great experience when buying and selling a home or investment property with us.  Part of the job is thinking outside of the box (but within the law and common sense) to make the sale process as smooth as possible for everyone.

Please follow and like us:

What is the Kyrene Foundation and what does it do?

The mission of the Kyrene Foundation

The Kyrene Schools Community Foundation (KSCF) advances the mission and vision of the Kyrene School District.  The Kyrene school district, one of the top-rated school districts in Arizona.  This district includes parts of Phoenix (Ahwatukee), Tempe and Chandler.  Click here for a map of the Kyrene School District

The Foundation’s mission is to remove barriers to learning so that all students can excel in school.  The Foundation serves families with students in the Kyrene School District in Maricopa County, Arizona.  The Kyrene school district includes parts of Phoenix (Ahwatukee), Chandler and Tempe.

People are often surprised that there are homeless families (and therefore children) in the Kyrene School District.  There is a further surprise when people learn children in our communities may be food deficient.  This is the official term for children not having enough food.  While the Kyrene school district is often considered to be in an affluent area.  However,  there is a  broad spectrum of families with needs.

Kyrene Family Resource Center (KFRC)

One of the largest initiatives of the Foundation is the Kyrene Family Resource Center (KFRC) is at Kyrene Los Niños Elementary school.  The KFRC is located at 1330 Dava Dr, Tempe, Az 85283. There, any family with children in the Kyrene school district in need of help may visit the Kyrene Family Resource Center.   There is no income requirements or proof of need required.

The KFRC provides services for families such as food, gently used clothing, hygiene items, and new school supplies. The current hours for the KFRC are: (hours may vary)  They can be reached at 480-541-1520.

The Kyrene Foundation provides direct support to Kyrene families in need through the following programs:

The annual Taste of Kyrene (as of 2019 called A Night for Kyrene and Opportunity Drawing raise funds through an event featuring a gala evening at Arizona Grand hotel.  Tickets purchased provide entry to a great dinner. Attendees stroll through the Arizona Grand hotel and can purchase tickets for the Opportunity Drawing, a wine pull and may also bid on numerous silent auction baskets.  These baskets are donated by the Kyrene elementary and middle school PTOs, Kyrene Foundation board members and various vendors.   While mingling with friends at the beautiful Ahwatukee Foothills Country Club attendees enjoy the event and know they are supporting the Kyrene Foundation and in turn the families in the Kyrene School District.

At the Taste of Kyrene, the winner of the Opportunity Drawing is drawn.  For several months leading up to the Taste of Kyrene, the 25 Kyrene PTOs sell tickets for a great Disney or Sea World vacation.  Tickets are sold for $10, 00, with $5.00 donated to the PTO and $5.00 to the Kyrene Foundation.

 Free Shred-A-Thon

For several years, Shirley Coomer & Gregory Stainton of Keller Williams Realty have sponsored a Free Shred-A-Thon at Kyrene Monte Vista Elementary school in April and October.  While the event is free to the community, anyone bringing items to be shred is asked to donate one none perishable food item for each box or bag brought for shredding.  The food is donated to the Kyrene Family Resource Center.  In the Spring, the request is for canned meat, pasta, pasta sauce, dried and canned beans and canned fruit and vegetables.  For the October Shred -A-Thon, the public is asked to donate typical Thanksgiving food that is used for the Thanksgiving food boxes that the Kyrene Foundation provides for families in need.

Wishes Come True

Many families finding it difficult to meet basic food and clothing needs to welcome the Kyrene Foundations Annual Wishes Come True event.  The event provides an opportunity for girls to attend and select a gently used semi-formal and spring dresses for 8th-grade promotion.  Girls also can select shoes and other accessories so they too can celebrate 8th-grade graduation dressed in a special outfit.

The Annual Golf Classic

The Annual Golf Classic held each June, more recently at the Wildhorse Golf course provides an opportunity for many in the community to enjoy gold while raising money to support the Kyrene Foundation.

Stuff the Bus

The Stuff the Bus event collects backpacks and school supplies to enable students to start the year will the right supplies to be successful in classes and to have all the same supplies as other students in their class.

One of the goals of the Kyrene Foundation is to remove barriers to learning.  When children come to class without the right supplies, they may get ridiculed by other students or suffer frustration at not having the tools they need to complete assignments.  Many organizations work to ensure Kyrene students have the backpacks and school supplies.

Thanksgiving food Box

In November, the Foundation donates a Thanksgiving food box with all the usual Thanksgiving fare for families that otherwise may not have a traditional Thanksgiving dinner.  Also included are frozen turkeys.  For Thanksgiving 2016, a store generously donated an apple pie for each family. The foundation typically serves 250 to 300 families at this event.

Winter Wonderland

The holidays can be a stressful time for any family.  However, it is especially so for those families struggling to meet their family’s basic needs.  The Winter Wonderland event provides an opportunity for families to select 2 new items for each child in the family for Christmas.  Families are escorted with a “personal shopper”.  They wander through a large room filled new toys, books, sporting equipment, books, games, puzzles, etc.  Once the items are selected, recipients can send their items to be gift wrapped while they enjoy beverages and cookies. As the items are dropped off for wrapping, parents or other caregivers are given raffle tickets for periodic drawings.  The drawings typically include new bicycles and turkeys throughout the day,

The Kyrene Foundation also provides many  programs and events in support of the teachers in the Kyrene School District with such programs as;

Teacher Mini-Grants – Kyrene teachers all invited to submit a request for up to $500 for a classroom specific project to enhance students’ educational experience.  These are granted twice a year.

Principle Mini-Grants – Principles can submit proposals for projects, up to $5000.  These typically support the entire elementary or middle school.

In 2015, the Foundation implemented a Principle mini-grant for up to $5000.  These grants are for proposals to enhance the educational experience for all students in their schools.

The Kyrene Foundation continues to look for new opportunities to serve the Kyrene School community.  This organization works in partnership with the Kyrene School District to identify needs within the community and opportunities to make a difference in the lives of the Kyrene students.

Please follow and like us:

I bought the Home Warranty Protection – Now What?

It is true most of us do not read the fine print.  Sometimes we don’t read at all, we just move ahead.  Well, it pays to read the fine print when you buy a Home Warranty.  You can save yourself much frustration and money by understanding how your Home Warranty protections before you need to use it.

Home Warranty protection can provide much peace of mind when you buy a home.  Buyers can avoid unexpected expenses for repair or replacement of the Air Conditioning, water heater or other major appliances once they move into their new home. Here in the Phoenix area, our hard water takes its toll on our water heaters.

What if I need service?

When you have a problem you believe is covered by our home warranty you want to contact your home warranty company for two reasons:

I had a call from a client recently who had been in his new home less than two months.  He was calling to see what to do with the bill for the pool motor.  He had the motor replaced the last Friday, going into the Labor Day holiday weekend.  I asked why he had a bill from the motor replacement?  I made sure the pool option was part of the Home Warranty that we asked the seller to pay for as part of the home purchase.

My retired client replied he didn’t think anyone would come on a holiday weekend.  He called a pool repair company to make sure it was fixed for the weekend. Now he had an $1100 bill from the pool company.  I am no pool expert but that seemed a bit high to me.

My client did receive the initial welcome information packet from the home warranty company and he did know to contact them (he had another issue when he first moved in with a RO System which unfortunately was not covered, but that is another story). Unfortunately, he didn’t read the packet of information he received until now.  The information told him to call his agent, so he was calling me to ask what to do with the bill. I am pretty sure the printed materials from the home warranty company did not instruct him to call his Realtor.

Who do I Call First?

The process with any home warranty is to first call the home warranty company and explain your situation.  They will check to ensure your plan covers the reason for the needed service.  Pools, spas, washer, dryer, and other appliances may need to be identified and have an extra fee paid for upgrades to the basic policy when the home warranty is purchased.  The home warranty company will ensure your service issue is covered, ask a few questions and dispatch the appropriate service provided.

Now Home Warranties are like any other form of insurance.  You may buy a home warranty, have a claim and be amazed you only paid a service call (typically $50 to $75) and got a new water heater (like I did).  Or you may have a home warranty in place and nothing malfunctions for the year!!! (lucky you!)

Home Warranties are pretty similar is how they work.  They all have disclaimers for things they do not cover (they may cover a primary pool motor but not a secondary spa motor) so read the fine print. Do they cover typical items?  Yes, a dishwasher, a stove, microwave, AC unit, etc.       

A few years ago on New Year’s Eve, my son was in the garage and let us know there was water on the floor, which was strange.  Sure enough, our water heater was starting to go!   We immediately put a hose on the faucet at the bottom so the water would drain outside and I called my home warranty

company.  Again, this is New Year’s Eve.  I talked to a great agent who said she would have a plumber give me a call as soon as possible.  Of course, I am thinking it will be days not hours before I get called.  Sure enough, within the hour I had a call from the plumber. I explained my situation and the age of the water heater.  He said I definitely needed a new one – and he would be at my house at 9 AM with the new water heater.  Guess what?  He showed up at 9 AM, installed the new heater and removed the old one. (I was so impressed with his service I continue to recommend him to clients in need of a great, responsive plumber!)

I always recommend buyers get a home warranty when they purchase a home.  This simple Home Warranty protection can save hundreds of dollars and help you avoid an unexpected appliance repair or replacement.  Home Warranties can be renewed each year if an owner chooses.  I don’t normally get appliance warranties when I buy new appliances.  I find a Home Warranty encompasses my whole household.  Now many appliance warranties you buy for a specific appliance may not have a deductible, while most Home Warranties will carry a deductible.  For my money, the Home Warranty protection is a better use of my hard earned money.

Home Warranties are also beneficial for anyone with investment properties.  The tenant or property manager can call the Home Warranty company directly and save those midnight calls for service repairs.

Can I get a Home Warranty if I am not purchasing a home?

Can you purchase a home warranty even if you have lived in your home for months or years?  The answer is Yes!.  Most home warranty companies have in initial waiting period after buying the plan before you file a claim, often 30 days.  However, when ordered through a Realtor, the waiting period can be less and often the actual Home Warranty protection plan costs less than when ordered directly by the consumer.

When Buying a Home Warranty protection plan you are buying insurance.  Consider any insurance plan carefully and read all the information.  Forget what you neighbor, friend or relative told you about their Home Warranty experience.  Home Warranty protection plans have evolved over the years and have generally improved over past programs.  Each company is different.  Some offer 12-month plans and other 13 months.  There are basic plans, gold or diamond plans, all with various coverage.  So rather than assuming (and we all know what that means) you do or do not have certain coverage, READ YOUR SPECIFIC PLAN.

If you want to order a Home Warranty plan or have questions please give me a call.  If you are looking to buy or sell a home in the Phoenix East Valley area (Ahwatukee, Tempe, Chandler, Gilbert) please give me a call.

I hope you found the information about Home Warranty Protection useful. If I can be of assistance with your Real Estate needs anywhere in the Ahwatukee / Mountain Park Ranch / East Valley area please call me at 602.770.0643. I have attached three links below. The first one will let you email me with any questions or comments. The second will send you to the custom search area of my website to look at homes for sale in Ahwatukee / Mountain Park Ranch or the East Valley area. The last one will send you to the Home Value area of my website so you can see what your Home is worth Today.

Email me with any questions or comments

Homes for Sale in Ahwatukee /Mountain Park Ranch Area

Please follow and like us:

Ahwatukee Restaurant in 85044 – Angry Crab Shack

Update on Ahwatukee’s Angry Crab

There are some great changes at Ahwatukee’s Angry Crab restaurant everyone should know about!

Jason Vance is back as manager at the Angry Crab in Ahwatukee Mountain Park Ranch community. He has implemented some great changes, such as extending Happy Hour Monday – Friday from 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM. This is great for anyone fighting traffic to get home and who found 6:00 pm was too early to take advantage of one of Ahwatukee’s best happy hours.

Happy Hours

Another welcomed change is Happy Hour now extends to all tables in the restaurant, not just at the bar. If you are attending a happy hour with friends, finding 4 seats together at a bar is a bit of a challenge, and visiting when you are sitting side by side at the bar is difficult. This is a welcomed change!
Of all the recent changes, my personal favorite is the $5.00 shrimp, when not on Happy Hour will be available for $7.00. This cold shrimp are large and such a great value, and previously not available outside of Happy Hour!
Speaking of value, the Angry Crab offers great food for a great price. I have frequented the Angry Crab consistently since the Ahwatukee location opened in August 2015 and have always had excellent service.

We need to continue to support this great locally owned restaurant, especially one which is working on improving how it serves its customers by recognizing the hours for Happy Hour needed to be extended and extended to the entire restaurant. The management at Angry Crab is working to take care of their customers and we need to show our appreciation by frequenting a locally owned restaurant.

For more information check out the Angry Crab’s Ahwatukee website

http://www.angrycrabshack.com/ahwatukee

Restaurants in Mountain Park Ranch

I have lived and worked in Ahwatukee for many years.  As a Realtor here at  Keller Williams Realty Sonoran Living,  I  have noticed how few restaurants we have within the Mountain Park Ranch community.  While there are many good Ahwatukee restaurants, it is always nice to have a  restaurant you like minutes from home.

Restaurants here come and go and the location of the Angry Crab Shack located at 3820 E Ray Rd, Ahwatukee 85044 is no exception. I can recall at least three different restaurants at this location.  There could be more be because they have not been memorable!  I was pleasantly surprised when I first visited the Angry Crab Shack.  Many friends and neighbors mentioned looking forward to this restaurant opening as they liked the Angry Crab Shack locations elsewhere in the valley.

The Angry Crab Shack expanded to Ahwatukee this summer and I couldn’t be happier.  Since the opening of this Louisiana-style restaurant at 3820 E Ray Rd, I have enjoyed several dinners and happy hours at this great new restaurant.  As a long time resident of Mountain Park Ranch, it is a pleasure to have a new restaurant, especially one specializing in Seafood.  The food is amazing and the service great. Having eaten in New Orleans many times and along the Gulf coast, this restaurant is reminiscent of the southern-style cooking found there.

Oysters on the Half Shell

In Phoenix, one usually hesitates to order oysters on the half shell. However, I have ordered these three times and have found them to be very fresh and delicious each time.  The Cajun-style food takes me back to many meals in New Orleans.  The shrimp & mussels are tasty, the various sauces to select from are delicious.  A great benefit of the Angry Crab is the ability to select the level of heat you want on your Seafood.  You can also select from lobster, crab legs, blue crabs, etc.

Have you ever tried to decide where to go for dinner when someone wants Seafood and others don’t?  If you or someone in your family not a fan of Seafood, this place is a great option to meet everyone’s idea of a perfect meal!  If you want chicken or BBQ you will not be disappointed here. Some restaurants that serve a variety of seafood, beef, and chicken don’t serve them all well, but  The Angry Crab Shack has the right formula and hits a home run with everything I have tasted.

For more information on the Angry Crab Shack, click on the small picture of the angry crab. This will direct you to their site 
where you can get directions to all of their locations, hours of operation, a history on the business, and the menu.

While we usually select a restaurant for great food and atmosphere, the service I have experienced has been consistently excellent.  From the first dinner to Happy Hour at the Bar, the staff takes pleasure in explaining to first-time visitors the nuances of the food and drinks.  They seem to genuinely enjoy their jobs which makes for a nice dining experience.

Make no mistake, this is a casual dining restaurant.  No suite and ties required!  In fact, with the Louisiana style of serving, complete with a lobster bib if desired, the more casual the better.  Your table is covered with butcher block paper to catch the drips of sauce and also service and your dinner plate.  Want to peel your shrimp and get your hands dirty, great because this will ensure you take in the full Louisiana experience.  When you are done, you head over to the communal sink and wash away the yummy sauce.  Your kids will love this place!

There are still many things on the menu for me to try.  With the cooler weather coming the large patio area will accommodate many hungry diners.  Outdoor patio seating is always welcomed when the Phoenix weather cools down and we can look forward to months of great weather.

While living in Mountain Park Ranch for the excellent Kyrene Schools, convenient location to shopping and highway access, adding another high-quality restaurant continues to make this area very desirable for the discerning home buyer. We all like to patronize local establishments. I predict the Angry Crab will do well in this Ahwatukee location.

Looking for live music?  Look no further than the Angry Crab.  Check with the website or Facebook page for artists and times!

I hope you found the information about the Angry Crab Shack useful. If I can be of assistance with your Real Estate needs anywhere in the Ahwatukee / Mountain Park Ranch / East Valley area please call me at 602.770.0643. I have attached three links below. The first one will let you email me with any questions or comments. The second will send you to the custom search area of my website to look at homes for sale in Ahwatukee / Mountain Park Ranch or the East Valley area. The last one will send you to the Home Value area of my website so you can see what your Home is worth Today.

Email me with any questions or comments

Homes for Sale in Ahwatukee /Mountain Park Ranch Area

What is my current Home worth???

Please follow and like us:

Great East Valley Holiday Events

What:  Pollack Tempe Cinemas 

About:  Come to see your favorite Holiday movie at the Pollack Tempe Cinemas.  No waiting to catch it on TV.  See the movies we all grew up with and enjoy for the feeling of holidays in the past.   CLICK HERE to see what is playing!

Where:   1825 E. Elliot Road, Tempe AZ 85284

Dates:  Nov. 17 – Jan. 2, 2017

Cost:   3.25 for tickets ($2.50 on Tuesdays)

For more information see    http://www.azfamily.com/clip/13912096/see-the-lights-and-spread-holiday-cheer-with-free-movies-at-pollack-cinemas

What:   Christmas at the Princess Resort 

About:  It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Celebrate the splendor of the season at the AAA Five Diamond award-winning Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. This is the 9th annual holiday celebration.  Witness the resort transform into an enchanting winter wonderland during our Ninth Annual Christmas at the Princess festival November 20, 2018, through December 31, 2018. The Princess is the perfect destination to create holiday traditions and make holiday memories your family will cherish for years to come. Christmas at the Princess is open nightly. Hours vary by day.  CLICK HERE for more information.

Where: 7575 E. Princess Drive, Scottsdale AZ 85255

Dates:  November 20 – December 31, 2018

If you like holiday lights, you may also like to see the Best Residential Holiday Lights   CLICK HERE

What: Tempe Marketplace’s Holiday Tree Lighting  and Holiday events

About:  Tempe Marketplace lit its 60-foot holiday tree at on November 21, 2018.  Throughout the season, there will be a nightly snowfall through December 31, 2018 (excludes Christmas Day), ice skating at the District Plaza and live music on Friday and Saturday nights.  Give generously and take an angel from the Salvation Army Angel tree and help a less fortunate child this holiday season.  Don’t forget about the ice skating opportunity – everyone is a kid again!  Enjoy the live music every Friday and Saturday beginning at 7 PM.  CLICK HERE for the complete live music line up!

Where: 2000 E. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe AZ 85281
Dates:  November 21 – December 31,  2018

Cost:  Free

What:   Phoenix ZooLights 

Don’t miss a visit to the 27^th Anniversary of the Phoenix ZooLights this holiday season when the Phoenix Zoo puts on a spectacular light display November 21, 2018 – January 23, 2019.  View the lights nightly at 5:30 PM – 10:30 PM.  (Last entry into the Dinosaurs in the Desert exhibit is 30 minutes prior to Zoo closing.)

The Phoenix Zoolights is one of the largest holiday light displays in the country. You will be enchanted by the almost four million lights as you stroll throughout the zoo. It takes 4 people almost 14 weeks to install the display. There are lights shimmering in the trees, light displays all through the park, and the music in motion shows along the lake.  It is breathtaking to see all the lights reflecting off the water!

Where:  455 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix AZ 85008

Dates:   Nov. 22 – Jan. 23, 2019   Time: 5:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.

Click here for information on discount ticket sales

For more information see: http://www.phoenixzoo.org/2017/11/17/let-it-glow/

What: Mesa’s Merry Main Street

Merry Main Street begins Friday, Nov. 23 with an ice show at the Winter Wonderland Ice Rink with AZ Ice at 4 p.m.; music with the Mesa City Band at the Mesa Christmas Tree, Main Street and Macdonald at 5 p.m. and a tree lighting ceremony and the arrival of Santa Claus during a brief program at 5:45 p.m. at Main Street and Macdonald. Enjoy an evening of music, food, and fun throughout downtown Mesa from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Bring the who family to experience the Winter Wonderland Ice Rink, Mesa’s Christmas Tree, Mesa Christmas Market, Santa’s sELFie Village, Jack Frost’s Food Truck, Polar ExpressForest, Main Street Express and Holiday Happenings at the MAC

Where:  Downtown Mesa, Main Street between Country Club and Mesa Drive

Dates: Nov. 23, 2018 – Jan. 4, 2019

Cost:  Varies by the event.  

For more information: CLICK HERE

What: Las Noches de las Luminarias 2018

About: Walk around the Desert Botanical Garden as 8,000 hand-lit luminaria bags and lights illuminate the grounds.  Take part in this Southwest holiday tradition and see the lights illuminate the grounds along with thousands of white twinkle lights.  You can pick from 21 wonderful evenings this.  For a special treat, enjoy dinner at the Garden and start a family tradition.  You can walk along the garden paths and enjoy hot cocoa or hot apple cider.   What a delightful evening as you start a tradition with friends and family.

Where:  Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix AZ 
Dates: December 4 – 23, Dec 26 – 31, 2018

Cost:   $29.95-$34.95  General Public –  $34.95-$39.95

REMINDER: The Garden is closed in the evening on Dec. 24 and for the entire day on Dec. 25 for the holidays. Please do not purchase admission for this event on Dec. 24 or 25.

Non-members:    Adults: $30,  Children (3-12): $12.50, children under 3 free.

CLICK HERE for more information 

• Dates: December 4 – 23, Dec 26 – 31, 2018
• Phone: (480) 941-1225
• Time: 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM
• Price: Members – $29.95-$34.95, General Public – $34.95-$39.95

What: Ahwatukee Foothills Lights

Don’t miss the kick-off party for the Ahwatukee Foothills lights on Saturday, December 1, 2018. The kick-off party includes a marketplace with various vendors, food, and beverages.

Location:  Desert Foothills Park 12 PM – 8 PM        1010 Marketplace Dr., Phoenix, AZ 85048

About: See the lights on the cactus and trees in the median along Chandler Blvd as a million white lights illuminate Chandler Blvd.  The lights will be lit at the 22nd annual Festival of Lights that kicks off the Saturday after Thanksgiving.  This huge community event is the product of many volunteers to who work throughout the year in preparation for all to enjoy the spectacular boulevard of lights.  This is truly a community effort.    

Where:  Chandler Blvd from 24^th St to Desert Foothills Parkway along Chandler Blvd.

Dates: December 1,  2018 – early January 2018.

Cost:  Free

For more information see:   http://www.folaz.org/about

What: Chandler’s Tumbleweed Tree

About: Chandler has one of the most interesting and authentic Southwest traditions in the east valley.  See the 25-foot tree made from 1,000 tumbleweeds! The Tumbleweed Tree is celebrating its 62nd anniversary in 2018.

Behold the iconic Tumbleweed Tree, visit with the jolly man himself, Santa, and enjoy musical performances. The holiday spectacular kicks off at 4:30 p.m. when thousands of revelers fill historic downtown to partake in festive crafts, amusement rides, live entertainment and a glowing pageantry of lights.

At the conclusion of the parade, guests are invited to gather in the center of the park on the west side of Arizona Avenue for the Tumbleweed Tree lighting ceremony.

Where:  3 S. Arizona Avenue, Chandler

Date: December 1, 2018

Cost:  Free

What:   2018 Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade

Don’t miss The 19th Annual Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade takes place on Saturday, December 9th

About: See Tempe’s Festival of Lights Boat Parade takes place from 4:0 p.m. – 9 p.m. on Dec. 8, 2018. More than 50 lighted boats will float along Tempe Town Lake followed by a fireworks show. The event kicks off at 4:30 pm with live music, selfies with Santa, food trucks, face painters and more!  Come out early, get your spot, a bite to eat and listen to some great music while making new friends with your neighbors. The parade launches off at 7 pm and completes with a colorful display of fireworks after the parade. Come and make this a family tradition!

Everyone loves a parade, right? A parade that floats…even better!  The community is invited to take part in holiday cheer by gathering on the shores of Tempe Town Lake to watch a procession of festively decorated boats of all shapes and sizes at the 19th Annual Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade Presented by Domino’s on Saturday, December 8th, 2018.

Everyone loves a parade, right? A parade that floats…even better! We invite the community to take part in holiday cheer by gathering on the shores of Tempe Town Lake to watch a procession of festively decorated boats of all shapes and sizes at the 19th Annual Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade Presented by Domino’s on Saturday, December 8th, 2018.

Light up the night and be dazzled by the Valley’s most unique holiday event. While you are there, grab a bite from the on-site food vendors, get your holiday shopping done at the Holiday Market, take a selfie with Santa Claus, enjoy beer or wine while watching live entertainment and behold as the waters of Tempe Town Lake glisten from the crafted parade unit lights.

Where: Tempe Beach Park, 80 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe

Dates:   Dec. 8, 2018.  From 4:30 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Cost:  Free for spectators

For more information see:   http://www.downtowntempe.com/explore/our-events/fantasy-of-lights/boatparade

 What:  Rawhide’s Snowy Christmas at Wild Horse Pass

About:  The Town is decked out with holiday décor and thousands of lights through December 23, 2018. Rawhide will feature holiday festivities nightly during general public hours (5pm-10pm). Admission is FREE with $5 parking charge.  Rawhide Holiday Buffet available for reservations Dec 23rd from 10am-4:30 pm with Western Town open all day.

Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Santa will lead the official tree lighting ceremony around 6:00 pm and be available for photos. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the nightly snowfall down Main Street and all of the town lit up with sparkling lights.

Are you on the Naughty or Nice list? Visitors can drop off letters to Santa at Rawhide’s “Delivery to the SW Pole” Post Office; every child who sends Santa a letter will hear back from Ol’ Saint Nick. Families can also get their holiday photos with Santa nightly at the Photo Emporium.

For information on dates and times  CLICK HERE 

Please follow and like us:

Residential Holiday L#formight Displays in the Phoenix East Valley – 2018 – 2019

 PLEASE NOTE –  It’s early in the season and not all homes have been decorated yet.  We’ll be driving around and adding new homes throughout the month of December.  Just Bookmark us for an easy update of lights.

You may also enjoy  East Valley Holiday Events.

Who doesn’t love to look at holiday lights as we enjoy the December festivities which for most of us include seeing the Christmas Lights in Phoenix?  While we don’t experience a white Christmas, there is no limit of homes that twinkle and sparkle with light displays, lights in the palm trees, decorated cacti and animation set to music.  Here are just a few of the many valley homes to include in your Christmas outings.

Ahwatukee  

541 E. Mountain Sky Ave. Phoenix, AZ 85048

The Santa Train Home

You won’t want to miss this amazing home in Ahwatukee with over 25,000    LED lights.  This is the 39th year the train has delighted holiday visitors ( 40 years ago in Baltimore, MD and now celebrating 28 years in Ahwatukee.)  When you visit your eyes will feast on a train rounding the tracks, many light displays, an animated Ferris Wheel, Snowflakes and a Christmas flash to music, see an animated Rudolph Hoisting Santa to the Roof, Frosty Makes it snow on the 1/2 hour Friday, Saturday & Sunday,  Animated Christmas Characters using the Teeter Totter, see the Volcano as it erupts when the train passes.   there are 4 new segments and 3 new sequences to the moutain tree and snolake show.  100% of all donations proceeds go to Phoenix Children’s Hospital. (tune into 87.9 FM to hear the Mountain show)

Dates & Times:  Thanksgiving Day, November 22, 2018, until January 1, 2019. Open nightly until 11:00 PM

More information on this amazing display  Click Here

Is this the North Pole?  Where else can you see a princess carriage, unicorn, animated figures, revolving Christmas trees, a 7-foot Ferris wheel, animated windows, Disney characters, singing/dancing 6-foot bears, snowman and a nativity scene? Add in Santa Clause and this is a must-see Ahwatukee favorite.

Dates and Times:  See these lights from Thanksgiving 2018 –  January 1, 2019

961 E. Clubhouse Drive, Phoenix, AZ, 85048

This home with 50,000 lights with handmade icicle lights, dripping icicles, colored lighted trees and bushes including ground cover lights will delight your little ones and adults alike.

Dates & times – House will be lit 6 PM. to midnight daily through the new year.

3611 E. Kachina Dr., Phoenix, AZ 85044

Check out Candy Cane Lane, where palm trees are dressed as candy canes, hence the name. There are all kinds of other fun decorations. The palm trees transform into candy canes with all kinds of other decorations.

Dates and Times: Starting December 2 (5 PM to 8 PM),  get a candy cane through the month of December between 6 to 8 PM (normal hours).

Ahwatukee Foothills

Don’t miss the annual Desert Foothills Boulevard of lights.  Travel west on Chandler Blvd in Ahwatukee and starting at 24th St you will see trees and cactus decked out with millions of white lights.  The drive from Chandler Blvd and 24th St to Desert Foothills Parkway is enchanting.  The lights twinkle throughout the boulevard.  Volunteers spend weeks adding the lights that have become an integral part of the Ahwatukee Christmas season!

Dates & Times: Evenings through early January 2019.

If you are considering a move to the Ahwatukee area, check out these properties.

If you are enjoying the Residential Lights for the holidays, you may also enjoy The Phoenix ZooLights 2018 Click Here

511 E. La Donna Drive, Tempe, AZ, 85283

Don’t miss this Santa’s North Pole workshop, a full nativity, winter wonderland, snowmen, Snowy Town and a singing choir, plus many more dazzling lights. Scenes feature over 100 blow-mold characters.

Dates & Times: Evenings now through December 31, 2018.

2200 W. Alameda Drive, Tempe, AZ, 85282

Illumination Tempe

Hundreds of thousands of lights delight everyone At Tempe Diablo Stadium.  See thousands of lights in this drive-through attraction with activities for the entire family to enjoy, from a Santa Social Sleigh to an obstacle course.  $29 per vehicle online in advance or $35 at the gate. Visit worldofillumination.com for more information.residences to break out their finest holiday decorations and lights to fill their cul-de-sac with a memorable holiday experience.  Everyone selects their choice of lighting and themes and it all blends together for a magical experience for children and adults alike. You will see everything from cartoon characters such as SpongeBob SquarePants to more traditional sets of the birth of Jesus.  Don’t worry, Santa appears in the form of a huge blow-up along with his sleigh.     Cost:  $29 per vehicle online in advance or $35 at the gate.

Dates and Times: 6-10 PM. Mondays-Fridays and 6-11 PM. Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 31, 2018

Go to top

Mesa  

663 W. Natal Circle, Mesa, AZ 85210

Natal Circle Delight

Address: Country Club Village, 2060 N. Center St., Mesa, AZ, 85201
Number of lights: 80,000
Details: Enter the park and take the first left and then take a right around the corner.

Fourteen houses in this Mesa cul-de-sac twinkle as homeowners once again create one of the most festive displays in Mesa.  

Dates and Times: Evenings through December 31, 2018

9031 E Fox St., Mesa, AZ 85207

See more than 60,000  lights and over 50 animated characters.  Sure to delight the young and old.

Dates and Times: Running nightly, 5 to 11 PM through January 1, 2019

1610 E. Hermosa Vista Dr., Mesa, AZ 85203

You won’t want to miss this Mesa tradition featuring more than 30,000 lights, trees and other decorations synced to holiday songs—tune your radio to 107.5 FM for the full experience.

You’re Welcome from David Kipp on Vimeo.

For more information Click Here 

Dates and Times:  now through January 1, 2019,  6 PM  to 10 PM

Go to top

11161 E Starkey Ave, Mesa, AZ  85212

40,000 lights to delight all ages. Don’t miss the 20 ft. tree with lights synchronized to music.  The 30-minute repeating show runs daily.   Turn your radio to 88.1 FM to see the lights synchronized to music featuring a musical Disney scene.  Look for snowfall Thursdays through Sundays.

Dates and Times: 5:30  8:30 PM Sundays through Thursdays. 530 – 10 PM Friday and Saturdays (weather permitting)

1335 N Papillion Circle, Mesa, AZ 85205

Be sure to include this home with 150,000 lights, a full manger scene, a land of misfits and the Grinch trying to get into the house. You will also see a flying sleigh and reindeer as well as a forest of candy canes.  Canned food is being accepted for Hope Women’s Center.

Dates and Times: Evenings through the holiday season

1728 N Papillon Circle, Mesa, AZ 85205

5,000 lights will delight you! You will see many amazing decorations synchronized to music, including woodland animals, gingerbread characters, holiday inflatables, and penguins!   Shown throughout the holiday season.

Dates and Times: Evenings through the holiday season

2203 S Boca, Mesa, AZ 85209

55,000 lights to amaze all ages! See the Christmas house display with lights synchronized to holiday songs, leaping arches and poles, shooting starts and more.  See snowmen and Reindeer! See this display nightly through January 2, 2018.  Tune into radio station 88.9 FM to listen to the holiday music.  Donations accepted for the Make A Wish foundation.

Dates and Times: 6 PM – 10 PM nightly through January 2, 2019

su_divider divider_color=”#ee5b5b”]

1517 S Arroya Circle, Mesa, AZ 85206

110,000 lights will light up the night sky! The entire cul du sac participates in the holiday spirit. The displays include flowing rivers, palm trees, icicles, inflatables, and animated characters.  So much to see! Plus, selected nights will include animated window displays and a live band!

Dates and Times: Evenings through the holiday season

2329 N. Recker Road #104, Mesa, AZ, 85215

65,000 lights decorate the entire house.  This bright home is decorated in lights and features Santa’s runway lights and multiple figures, including Happy Birthday Jesus

Dates and Times;  Evenings through December 31, 2018

Go to top

7518 E. Princess Drive, Mesa, AZ, 85207

75,000 Lights set to music.  The display includes animated deer and multiple blow-up figures. Watch for Santa peeking out of his RV.  This is sure to delight little ones and older ones as well!

Dates and Times: Evenings through the holiday season

10557 E. Vivid Ave., Mesa, AZ, 85212

Over 11,000 synchronized LED/pixels in this delightful light show, which is set to music. Don’t miss the eight leaping arches, dancing trees, under-eave glow lighting, and a 15-foot Mega tree mounted on the roof.

Dates and Times: Evenings through the holiday season

3009 S. Piedra, Mesa, AZ, 85212

See the 45,000 light display that is a synchronized display which is featured on the front, sides, and back of this home.  Also included you will see a spinning Mega tree, a large cross, big star, dancing trees, and holiday songs.

Dates and Times: Evenings through the holiday season

Go to top

Chandler

1150 S. Sean Drive, Chandler, AZ, 85286

Come and see the 15,000 lights which are animated to Christmas music with inflatables and yard displays. Listen to Christmas music in your vehicle at 87.9 FM.

Dates and Times: Evenings through the holiday season

891 W Boxelder Place, Chandler, AZ

See 15,000 – 20,000 lights!  Delight in the 17 piece nativity scene, various blow-up figures, encased villages and seascape, along with many dolls. Don’t miss the 500 piece miniature village, miniature harbor sets, and an animated doll chorus display.

Dates and Times: Evenings through the holiday season

6480 W. Orchard Lane, Chandler, AZ

Don’t miss this 14 house display as neighbors come together to decorate with over 100,000 lights.  Park and stroll through the neighborhood and enjoy the work of these neighbors who come together to create a memorable display for the community to enjoy.  On Saturday evenings in December enjoy complimentary pictures with Santa on his sleigh from 6 pm – 9 pm.  This community will also collect canned foods for a local food pantry.

Dates and Times: Evenings through the holiday season

2106 N Arrowhead Dr., Chandler, AZ

Over 75,000 lights cover this amazing home. Delight with Santa and the reindeer on the roof, blow-up holiday figures accompanied by music, a 30-foot Christmas tree, a photo booth and more to make this a must-see stop on your tour of Christmas lights.

Dates and Times: Evenings through December 31, 2018.

Go to top

4606 W Milky Way, Chandler, AZ

See over 100,000 lights!  Lights, displays and a new display featuring dozens of starts reaching into the sky. This is sure to delight everyone!

Dates and Times: Evenings  6 PM – 10 PM through the holiday season.  For more information go to Facebook.

2212 W El Prado Rd, Chandler, AZ

Where else can you watch holiday movies in the home driveway,  The free popcorn has been discontinued this year but not the great movies!

Date and Times:  Friday, Saturday & Sunday nights through December 25, 2018

2605 W Upland Dr, Chandler, AZ

The lights twinkle up and down this street as neighbors have worked to create a magical wonderland. You will find carriage rides available, Santa’s theater Buffy the two-story bear and a Barbershop quartet, all among the more than 20,000 lights along the street.  For more information visit facebook.com/xmasonupland for more details.

Dates and Times:  Evenings through the holiday season.

1075 W. Mulberry Drive, Chandler, AZ, 85286

Foux Lights is 25,000 lights synchronized to 32 channels of music with 70 vintage blow-mold figures. See the Nutcracker and sugar plum fairy in the Land of Sweets, winter wonderland, Santa’s workshop, and the nativity scene. Non-perishable food donations are accepted for Chandler Christian Community Center until Dec. 23.

Dates and times: From dusk until 10 PM nightly through New Year’s Day.

2956 E. Elmwood Place, Chandler, AZ, 85249

Don’t miss this 20,000 Musical light show which includes a two-story Disney castle replica, starbursts, arches, and a 13-foot tree. Snow is featured and hot cocoa is available to purchase Fridays and Saturdays.

Dates and Times:  From 6-10 PM nightly through January 1, 2019

3403 E. Bluebird Place, Chandler, AZ, 85286

Over 20,000 Lights are synchronized to music you can hear by tuning to 87.9 FM. Charitable donations are accepted for the 100 Club of Arizona which supports first responders.

Dates and Times:  Evenings through the holiday season.

Go to top

Gilbert

Christmas on Comstock
3642 East Comstock Drive, Gilbert, AZ

Note: This Gilbert neighborhood’s light display won ABC 2015 “The Great Christmas Light Fight”.

This Gilbert neighborhood, located near Elliott & Higley Rds.  has won the $50,000 grand prize in 2015 by winning the ABC “The Great Christmas Light Fight”, beating out communities in Florida and Hawaii.  As a result, the crowds this year are expected to be bigger this year when the display lights up starting on December 1. Thirteen adjacent homes along Comstock St. have come together to produce a magical holiday experience.  You will see more than 110,000 lights, 50,000 feet of wire plus more than 300 strobe lights.  You will love the lights and animation along this street. All the houses have been synchronized to four songs making for a magical display.  Expect a lot of traffic as last year the community averaged 400 cars per hour along the streets.  You can drive through the neighborhood or park and walk a bit so you can stroll at your own pace through the enchanted holiday experience.

Dates and Times: 6 PM to 10 PM Monday through Thursday, and 6 PM to 10:30 PM on weekends from December 1 until December 31, 2018.

1887 W. Pinon Court, Gilbert, AZ, 85233

Don’t miss this lovely light display with 30,000 lights! Putting up lights for the holidays has been a family tradition for more than 20 years at this home.  Don’t miss this families labor of love!

Dates and Times: See the lights 5:30-10:30 PM nightly through December 31, 2018.

396 W. Liberty Lane, Gilbert, AZ, 85233

Don’t miss this 100,000-holiday display! A huge animated light show is spread among five houses and includes five animated musicians, four Mega trees, and multiple RGB matrices covering the entire face of the house. Food donations collected for United Food Bank

Dates and Times:  Evenings through December 31, 2018.

366 E. El Dorado Lane, Gilbert, AZ, 85295

Over 25,000 Christmas decorations and lights are featured along with dozens of lighted figurines and animatronics with festive music.

Dates and Times:  Evenings through December 31, 2018.

Go to top

845 E. Tyson Court, Gilbert, AZ, 85295

Number of lights: 30,000
Details: See the 30,000 lights which feature pixel and LED lighting synchronized to your favorite Christmas music. This is a custom display.

Date and Times:  Nightly until 10:30 PM. through Dec. 31, 2018

1146 N Quail Ln, Gilbert, AZ

Details: Don’t miss the 30,000 lights at Peanuts Airport. See Snoopy taking off the end of the runway and Santa in a helicopter. Come and get your picture with your favorite Peanut Characters Charlie Brown, Lucy, Schroeder, Sally, Peppermint Patty, Franklin, Pig Pen and of course Snoopy and the Minions!  You don’t want to miss this display!

Dates and Times:  Now through January 1, 2018, from 5:30 PM-Midnight

Drive by and see the 25,000 light display and enjoy a unique show of Christmas spirit with thousands of lights singing and dancing to Christmas songs the whole family can enjoy.

Dates and Times:  Evenings through December 31, 2018.

2467 E. Aris Drive, Gilbert, AZ, 85298

View 80,000 lights at this Christmas house and see inside and out for free. Donations are accepted. Look for nearly 3,000 snowmen and nearly 400 Santas.

Dates and Times: Visit facebook.com/hunterschristmaswonderlandfor dates and times.

2518 E. Saratoga St., Gilbert, AZ, 85296

See this 40,000 sparkling light display!   This traditional holiday display includes Nutcrackers, animated figures, Mega trees, and Christmas houses. A must see!! Sure to please all.

Dates and Times:  Evenings through December 31, 2018.

We hope you have enjoyed seeing where you can see wonderful Christmas Lights in Phoenix.  An outing to view Christmas Lights is fun for the whole family and makes wonderful memories.  Wonderful Christmas lights can be seen in all across the Phoenix Valley. Take your family and friends to see Christmas lights in Phoenix and have a very Merry Christmas!

Please follow and like us:

Phoenix ZooLights

 November 21, 2018 – January 13, 2019 5:30 – 10:30 p.m.

Is the Park Handicap Accessible?

The park is fully accessible to everyone.  Wheelchairs and strollers alike move easily along the paths of the zoo making the entire park and all the lights accessible to everyone!  These are provided on a first-come, first served basis. The rental area can be found to your right as you enter the park, past the turnstiles. You may also bring your own stroller, wheelchair or electric scooter.

December Weather in Phoenix

This year we start the holiday season cooler than normal weather so bundle up put on your hats and gloves and dress warmly. To help you determine the likely temperatures as you stroll the park.  To check out local Weather Conditions, CLICK HERE.

Guests will see the magnificent lights as they approach the zoo.  You can’t miss the lights projected up and through the trees and bushes, only providing a hint of the enchanted wonderland you are about to enter.

The lights come on at 5:30 pm and stay on until 10:30 pm. ZooLights creative displays include butterflies, lion cubs, hummingbirds and flowers, stingrays, a tiger, and reindeer. Viewers of all ages will find the vast array of breathtaking displays completely engaging. Stroll the grounds and enjoy a cup of hot chocolate or apple cider.  Listen to the excitement as children see the lights changing colors and light shaped animals come to life. Check out the Zoo website for ticket prices which vary based on anticipated peak attendance nights.  Grab your hats and gloves and stroll through the Phoenix ZooLights. Make this a family holiday tradition.  (Purchase tickets online and save money!)  Note that prices vary by date.  Check out the value dates!

The Phoenix Zoo opened in 1962 and is the largest privately owned, non-profit zoo in the United States. Located in Phoenix, Arizona, the zoo was founded by Robert Maytag, a member of the Maytag family, and operates on 125 acres of land in the Papago Park area of Phoenix.  Zoolghts is the zoo’s largest fundraiser of the year and proceeds go to care for the 1400 animals who call the Phoenix zoo their home.

Where to eat dinner near the Phoenix Zoo

Make the ZooLights part of an evening out!  Consider visiting one of the several restaurants near the Phoenix zoo before your evening out, or end the evening with a nice dinner after visiting the ZooLights.  There are several great restaurants in the area offering a wide variety of menu selections.

Check out the 15 area Restaurants within 2 miles of the Zoo.

Click Here

What is there to see?     You will enjoy the traditional favorites such as the swinging primate, Komodo dragon, and elephants, lion and giraffe families. You will also see sculptures such as a beehive surrounded by bees and a stream of alligators, hippos, and antelope throughout the zoo.

The pride of lions on the roof of Savanna Grill has grown with the addition of a lioness, lion, and lion-cub sculptures.

To see my Blog on my other Top Holiday light displays / and individual Homes in the Phoenix area see Best Christmas Light Displays in the East Valley.

ZooLights continues its tradition of adding new sculptures and lights each year. In honor of the new tiger habitat, ZooLights will have a 3-D tiger sculpture.  Other new 3-D and 4-D sculptures include flowers, a hummingbird, and stingrays.

Holiday scenes of gumdrops, gingerbread men and lollipops will delight all ages as you walk around the zoo.

On the Tropics Trail, illuminated balls cause changing colors to reflect on the palm trees.  Palm trees that are lit up are the center for many local Phoenix residents as they enjoy the mix of tropical palms as these trees that light up in the desert evening.  You will notice zooLights projected on the trees and ground to create a lighted view all over the zoo.

When you are ready to rest a bit, you can take a ride on the Carousel and enjoy the holiday music and lights as you ride round and round!  Children delight in riding their favorite animals and watching the sparkling lights!   Parents will enjoy a respite and smile at the joy on their children’s faces as they ride the carousel round and round!

While strolling through the zoo you will delight in this years “Music in Motion”.  You will see trees around the lake,  a dozen floating light towers along with a 24-foot glowing sphere on the lake.  These are synchronized to the Winter Palace and music from the Polar Express.   The music playing throughout the park varies from traditional holiday music to a delightful symphony music.  In a brilliant light display around the water, the lights on the trees change with the music making for a wonderful display that will take your breath away.

Will I see the Zoo Animals?

As you stroll through the ZooLights, you may be able to catch the local residents coming out to see you!  The ducks are roaming along the path by the water hoping for a few treats.  The otters are swimming and approaching the banks as they gaze at the evening visitors staring back at them in amazement! Many of the other animals are nocturnal so may not come out to play!

Throughout the zoo, you will find beverages for everyone!  Coffee, Hot Chocolate and “Adult” beverages are available along with popcorn and other snack foods.  Sit and enjoy the lights from many vantage points throughout the park as you enjoy your snacks and pause to take in the colorful lights that range from red and green to pink and purple!

As you exit the park don’t forget to check out the holiday merchandise you can buy with a zoo theme or the zoo gift shop.  Why not give a unique Christmas gift, lovingly selected with your friends in mind.  Your purchase helps support the zoo and you leave with a unique holiday gift.

This is a great time of year to visit the Phoenix zoo and enjoy the thousands of light displays. With snacks, drinks and a stop at the gift shop, you will create a memorable evening at the Phoenix Zoo and delights in this year’s new Phoenix ZooLight displays!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

Please follow and like us:

Update on the October 21, 2017, Shred-A-Thon

Thank-you to everyone who participated in our Shred-A-Thon.  What a great turn out!

• We collected $617.00 which will be used to purchase Thanksgiving turkeys for Kyrene families in need.
• 37 boxes of Food collected for Kyrene Families
• A record 20,640 pounds of shredded paper – keeping identities safe!
• The 20,640  pounds of paper has a value of $1032.  This money goes to the Tempe Centers of Habilitation.
• Over 200 cars/trucks brought paper for the Shred-A-Thon.

A Special Thank- you to ASDD Document Destruction for your trucks and amazing employees who worked tirelessly at the Shred-A-Thon.  And a big thank-you to all the volunteers who help!

Don’t miss our next Shred-A-Thon on April 21, 2018. 

Plan to stop by our next Shred-A-Thon April 21, 2018.  This will again be held at Monte Vista Elementary School from 9 AM – 11 AM.

It is time again for our FREE Shred-A-Thon October 21, 2017 at  Monte Vista elementary school in Ahwatukee.

Free Shred-A-Thon October, 21, 2017 at Monte Vista

Join Shirley Coomer and Gregory Stainton of Keller Williams Realty Sonoran Living for their semi-annual Shred-A-Thon. Shirley Coomer and Gregory Stainton of Keller Williams Realty Sonoran Living for their semi-annual Shred-A-Thon.

When:        Saturday, October 21, 2017

Where:       Kyrene Monte Vista Elementary School

                    15221 S Ray Rd, Phoenix, Az  (Ahwatukee)

Time:          9 AM – 11 AM

Cost:           The Shred-A-Thon is free 

This Shred-A-Thon is provided as a community service. This event was established to prevent identity theft by providing a twice a year shredding opportunity.  Consequently, this is a convenient way for local residents to shred unneeded documents at a convenient location.

The Shredding service is donated by ASDD Document Destruction of Tempe. The shredded documents are sold to benefit the Tempe Hilibation Center.  There will be a shred truck on site for those who want to see their documents shredded. There will also be a truck with secure bins that are locked.  The contents transported to the ASDD facility in Tempe for their commercial shredding. So don’t miss the  Free Shred-A-Thon October 21, 2017, at Monte Vista.

Shirley & Gregory ask for a food donation for the Kyrene Food Bank.  This is located at the Kyrene Resource Center supported by the Kyrene Foundation.  Suggest donation is one food item for each box or bag of shred items brought to the Shred-A-Thon.  No need to remove staples or paper clips (no 3 ring binders).  ASDD can also accommodate the shredding of CDs.   

While we can not accept hardware for shredding.  However,  ASDD’s Tempe facility can accommodate shredding of hard drives.

The Kyrene Family Resource Center

The Kyrene Family Resource Center provides food for Kyrene Families.  Also, this center is also a  resource for families of Kyrene students in need of clothes, hygiene items, etc.

In October, we are again collecting Thanksgiving Foor for the Thanksgiving Food Boxes that will be given out by the Kyrene Foundation to Kyrene families in need.

Food Items currently needed:

• Canned green beans //  Cream of mushroom soup
• Canned Yams or sweet potatoes //   French fried onions
• Bag of marshmallows   //  Box of stuffing
• Box of mashed potatoes  // Package or can of gravy
• Cornbread or biscuit mix // Canned cranberry sauce
• Non-perishable dessert mix (pumpkin pie can, cake mix, etc)

So don’t miss the Free Shred-A-Thon October 21, 2017, at Monte Vista elementary school in Ahwatukee.

Don’t miss this FREE Shred-A-Thon October 21, 2017, at Kyrene Monte Vista elementary school and keep your identity safe!

This Shred-A-Thon is sponsored by Shirley Coomer and Gregory Stainton each April and October to give back to the Ahwatukee community.  As Ahwatukee residents, Both Shirley and Gregory’s children attended the highly rated Kyrene schools.  And, both are on the board of directors for the Kyrene Foundation which supports the Kyrene Family Resource Center. They are passionate about supporting the Foundation through many fundraising events.  As local Realtors with Keller Williams Realty, they know first hand how identity theft can affect home buyers when they apply for home loans.

Those attending the Shred-A-Thon can donate non-perishable food, which is critical to helping the Kyrene Resource Center meet the needs of many of the Kyrene District’s families in need of food assistance.   Kyrene Family Resource Center, supported by the Kyrene Foundation is located at  Kyrene de los Ninos Elementary school located at 1330 E Dava Dr, Tempe Az  85283.

Free Shred-A-Thon October 21, 2017, at Monte Vista

The Kyrene Family Resource Center is open to any family that has a student enrolled in the Kyrene School District. Their mission is “removing barriers to learning” and the resources provided support that mission.

Shirley Coomer and Gregory Stainton look forward to seeing you at their Free Shred-A-Thon October 21, 2017, in Ahwatukee at Kyrene Monte Vista Elementary school

Please follow and like us: