An abundance of major Tempe events to close many roads this weekend

TEMPE, Ariz. — Tempe is preparing for a surge of visitors on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, as Arizona State University’s homecoming game and the final Ironman race to be held in the city are expected to draw thousands. City officials are warning residents and visitors to expect significant traffic delays and multiple road closures across downtown.

Some streets near downtown Tempe are already closed as crews set up for the events. ASU will host West Virginia in its homecoming football game at 11 a.m. Saturday, while the last Ironman Arizona race in Tempe will take place on Sunday. The combination is expected to create major congestion throughout the weekend.

City officials are encouraging people to plan. One tool they recommend is the Tempe Trip app, which provides real-time information on road closures and alternate routes. Users are advised to begin checking the app around 7 p.m. Friday, when closures are expected to increase.

The weekend kicks off Friday with one of ASU’s oldest traditions, the Lantern Walk, beginning at 6 p.m. Participants will climb “A” Mountain, where homecoming royalty will be crowned at the summit. Along with the ASU men’s basketball team hosting No. 19 Gonzaga at 9 p.m.

On Saturday morning, ASU’s annual homecoming block party and parade will begin at 9 a.m. The parade will run along University Drive between Forest and McAllister avenues. All events are free and open to the public.

The Ironman race on Sunday marks the end of a 21-year run in Tempe. City officials say rapid growth and extensive construction along the bike course have made it too difficult to host the event moving forward. Because of the race, at least half of Tempe’s major arterial streets will be either restricted or fully closed.

Residents are urged to allow extra travel time, consider alternate routes and use the city’s traffic tools to navigate the busy weekend.

If you would like to see the full list of road closures, visit the City of Tempe’s website.

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