FAQ
Event Basics
What are the hours of the event?
6:00 - 10:00 p.m.
If I leave, can I come back into the event?
Yes, attendees may leave and return at any time. However, NO ALCOHOL may be brought in or out of the event. Bags will also have to be searched a second time.
What items am I allowed to bring into the event? ALL BAGS & PERSONS ARE SUBJECT TO SEARCH
All personal items will be checked and tagged upon entry. Those without any items will be able to go through the Express Lanes at entry.
WATER BOTTLES! Bring an empty water bottle to stay hydrated all night. There are water fountains inside the Convention Center, and a water bottle refilling station will be provided courtesy of Mesa Water Resources.
Bags, purses and backpacks.
Coolers with maximum measurement of 26” long x 16” wide x 16” high
Non-alcoholic beverages in sealed containers. No open beverage containers will be allowed.
Portable chairs
Blankets
Food
Is there wheelchair or stroller rental available?
No, there are no rental items.
Is smoking/vaping allowed?
No. Per Mesa City Code 6-11-4, “No person shall smoke in any public place when the public gathers together for any purpose or event.” This includes vaping.
What items will I be prohibited from bringing into the festival?
NO Outside alcohol
NO containers/unsealed water bottles with liquid (empty items can be brought in and filled inside the event).
NO Smoking or vaping
NO Contraband or illegal substances
NO Firearms /Weapons of any kind
NO Fireworks/Sparklers/Firecrackers
NO Laser Pointers
NO Motorized carts or scooters (unless ADA approved)
NO Clothing with gang signs/symbols OR of particular colors worn in combination with known gang signs or symbols
NO Unauthorized/unlicensed vendors
NO bicycle riding within the event area
NO Pop-up tents or canopies
Can I bring my pet?
Only service animals are permitted on the event site. We ask that service animals be appropriately equipped to withstand walking on hot concrete and not be bothered by loud noises.
How much do entry and activities cost?
Entrance into the event and activities is FREE. Only food, drinks, and merchandise from vendors will have an associated cost.
Are there ways to cool off during the event?
So many ways! Enjoy indoor activities, misting fans throughout the event, water slides and a spray truck.
Is there seating available?
There is some seating around Stage America and tables for dining in the food court area. There are also several grassy areas where attendees can sit. You may bring portable chairs to the event, but attendees are asked to refrain from reserving lawn areas for fireworks viewing.
Where are the bathrooms?
Port-a-johns are located throughout the event, but restrooms within the Convention Center Building B and the Amphitheatre are open.
Where is there an ATM?
An ATM can be found at the entrance to building C South Lobby
Where is first aid?
Inside Building A
Where do volunteers check in?
Building A, Superstition Ballroom
Where is VIP?
Southeast side of Building A on the outdoor Patio
Can I pay to get into VIP?
No, the VIP area is for the families/company employees of the sponsors who donated the money to make the event possible. We also invite City and State elected officials.
Fireworks & Drone Show
What time is the drone show?
The drone show is scheduled for 9:25 p.m. after the Salute to America program, held on Stage America.
What time are the fireworks?
The fireworks are scheduled to go off at approximately 9:35 p.m. They are set off after the Salute to America program, held on Stage America.
In what direction do I look to see the fireworks?
The fireworks will be set off east of the event. You will want to watch the sky over the Mesa Amphitheatre to see the fireworks.
Food & Beverage
This is a cashless event. Please bring a debit or credit card to purchase food and beverages.
Where can I get water?
Vendors are selling water. There are also water fountains in Building B (Independence Hall) and at the City of Mesa “Water Bar” located just west of the Mesa Amphitheatre entrance.
Will there be food and drinks available for purchase?
Yes, food and beverage vendors will be on location. Soda and water can also be purchased at beer stands.
Where can I purchase alcohol?
There are several beer stands throughout the event near Stage America / Tailgate Zone and the food court. All patrons must present proper ID to receive a wristband before purchasing alcoholic beverages. Alcoholic beverages MAY NOT leave the event.
Where can I get over-21 wristbands?
IDs are checked and wristbands are provided next to the bar serving areas.
Entertainment/Activities
Why do the water slides shut down early?
The lines to the slides in the Celebration Splash zone are cut off at approximately 8:45 p.m., and the slides are deflated at 9:15 p.m. The slides are brought down because numerous families live along Center Street behind those slides and have requested that they be able to enjoy the fireworks with their family and friends from their front yards.
Where is the main stage?
Main Stage (Stage America) is located in the large lawn area in the middle of the event.
Is there any kind of presentation?
Yes! The“Salute to America” starts at approximately 9:20 pm on Stage America.
See the Entertainment page for additional activities and schedules.
Do you have a schedule for each stage?
Yes! Please see the Entertainment page for activity schedules and details.
What time is Phoenix Championship Wrestling presents SLAMU?
Matches start at 6:00 p.m. Schedule details are available on the Entertainment page.
Can I be a sponsor/vendor/band/volunteer next year?
Yes! Contact us at specialevents@mesaaz.gov.
Vendors
Can I bring my own products to sell or promote?
Unauthorized vending and solicitation are prohibited throughout the event site. If you see anyone doing this (without a roaming vendor badge), please notify Event Operations in Building A.