Downtown Tempe To Host Virtual Thanksgiving Special

TEMPE, AZ — With the coronavirus pandemic leading to canceled events across the U.S. and Arizona, Downtown Tempe is making sure the holidays stay entertaining for its residents.

Instead of holding a large, in-person event this year, the Downtown Tempe Authority will instead hold a virtual celebration at 7 p.m. on Thanksgiving. All anyone has to do to join is log into Facebook and watch live on Downtown Tempe's page.

"Changes to our fall and winter events are inevitable considering the ongoing pandemic," the organization wrote in a news release. "While It saddens us to announce that our 2020 Fantasy of Lights Opening Night Parade and Boat Parade are cancelled, the holiday cheer will go on!"

The event will feature messages from Tempe Mayor Corey Woods, some Tempe City Council Members, a member from the event's sponsor, Edward Jones, and a special guest from the North Pole, who will read letters from Tempe kids. Children can write a letter to Santa here to be featured during the special.

There will also be live holiday music played by a local musician. A surprise is also planned for the end of the special.

The group is also hoping to do some good with the event. Organizers are encouraging residents donate to the Tempe Community Action Agency's hunger relief program if they can. The organization hopes to raise $5,000 for those in need this holiday season.