Holidazzle, Arizona style

Every year since 1992, over 300,000 spectators converge on downtown Minneapolis' Nicollet Mall to celebrate the Holidazzle Parade. It's an annual event that's not to be missed. Sponsored by local businesses, participants are all locals. It brings community together year after year, delighting young and old alike.

 

 

 

Adults, kiddies and tiny tots come bundled in jackets with furry hoods, warm knitted mittens and scarves, carrying blankets to sit on or wrap around themselves as they are delighted by one float after another.

Beautiful light displays slowly advance down the mall, marchers warming heart and soul with smiles, waves and laughter. It is a winter tradition bringing folks from miles around to enjoy the hour-long festive event.

 

Well, here in the Arizona desert, we have our own Holidazzle. Okay, a bit smaller in scale, but the lights, decorations, waves and laughter are all there, not to mention the holiday spirit.

 

That is white rock on the ground, not snow!

Yes, folks, it's a golf cart parade!

Sixteen golf carts joined in this year, weaving in and around every street in the resort park. Some had lighted Christmas trees on top, and all were decorated with lights, wreaths, jingle bells and garlands.

Christmas music played from a few of the carts and if you were lucky, one would pass by throwing Christmas candies. Why, even Santa himself was there, riding in a cart alongside Mrs. Claus.

No Parkas found here; no folks bundled in blankets, no frosty breaths. No snow, no rubbing hands together, no stomping feet. Arizona's answer to winter.

Although I miss the Holidazzle parades at home in Minnesota, this one warmed my heart all the same.

Hope you are enjoying the holiday season and taking time to participate in a few festive events.