We’re officially in the holiday season in the Valley, which means bright lights and shopping events will both be in abundance. This weekend’s best things to do around town includes a bit of both, as you can check out the Fantasy of Lights street parade in Tempe or pick up gifts at Phoenix Flea or the Heard Museum’s Annual Ornament Marketplace. And if you’re in the mood for something fun, All Puppet Players is launching its annual staging of Die Hard: A Christmas Story.

Read on for more details about these events or click over to Phoenix New Times’ online calendar for more things to do from Friday, November 25, to Sunday, November 27.

Fantasy of Lights Street Parade

Mill Avenue is no stranger to bright lights, owing to all the vibrantly illuminated bars, clubs, and restaurants lining the main drag through downtown Tempe’s nightlife district. This weekend, though, the scene will glow even more colorfully during the Fantasy of Lights Street Parade on Friday, November 25. Floats, vehicles, marching bands, and other participants in the annual parade will be adorned with strings of lights as they travel along Mill Avenue. The event kicks off at 4 p.m. with live music, food and drink, and a variety of vendors throughout downtown Tempe. The parade itself will start at 6 p.m. and will be followed by a tree-lighting ceremony at 7 p.m. Admission is free. You can find the full schedule here. Benjamin Leatherman