Fort McDowell Fiesta Bowl Parade

Of the many Fiesta Bowl events that take place in the Valley of the sun in the weeks preceding the Fiesta Bowl football game, the Fiesta Bowl Parade is one of the most popular. Thousands of people will line the streets of central Phoenix to enjoy the Fort McDowell Fiesta Bowl Parade presented by the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation. The theme for this year's Fort McDowell Fiesta Bowl Parade is "Spirit of the Southwest." Two-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion Tony Stewart will serve as the Grand Marshal for the 38th Annual Fort McDowell Fiesta Bowl Parade. Scottsdale native and Disney Channel star David Henrie will be the Honorary Grand Marshal.

When is the Fiesta Bowl Parade?

On Saturday, January 3, 2009 the parade will begin at 11 a.m.

Where is the Fiesta Bowl Parade?

The parade will begin on Central Avenue, just north of Montebello Avenue. It will travel south to Camelback Road, then east to 7th Street, and then south again to the finish just south of Minnezona Avenue. Here's a map of the parade route. The Arizona Department of Transportation usually provides detailed motorist information, including any travel or road restrictions, for this event. Call 5-1-1, then *7. The call is free.

What can I expect to see at the Fiesta Bowl Parade?

Nearly 100 entries, including floats, balloons, bands, equestrian, specialty groups and honorary participants, including the Grand Marshal.

How much does it cost to get in?

The Fiesta Bowl Parade is free, if you want to find a place along the parade route to watch. If you want reserved seating, bleacher tickets are $25 each, and may be purchased online from the Fiesta Bowl Ticket Office, or call 480-350-0911.

Where should I park?

There are no specific parking designations for the Fiesta Bowl Parade. If you are lucky enough to find a spot on the street, take it. Otherwise, there will be parking lots charging in locations all along the parade route. My advice: make sure you park on the side of the parade route that you want to leave from--it may be difficult getting around the parade route for several hours after it begins.

Do you have pictures?

Picture Gallery: Fiesta Bowl Parade

Are there any other hints or tips for going to the Fiesta Bowl Parade?

Our friends at the Fiesta Bowl Committee gave me some great tips:

• The best spots along the parade route if you aren't sitting in the bleachers are at Central and Camelback or 7th Street and Camelback. There is pre-parade entertainment at both of those intersections. You'll have to get there pretty early though; people will be there several hours before the start of the parade to get a good spot. Some people will start claiming their spots at 6 a.m.
• Bring chairs, snacks, water. Remember, it will be cool in the morning if you plan to get there early.
• There are restrooms all along the parade route.
• Don't forget your camera!

_{All dates, times, prices and offerings are subject to change without notice.}

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