Glendale Glitter & Glow Block Party, January 14, 2012

Glow, baby, glow! Glendale Glitters holiday light display concludes with the rockin’ Glendale Glitter and Glow Block Party, on Jan. 14, from 4-11 p.m. with fun for the whole family! YouTube Video

Thousands of people are expected to stroll along 16 blocks of closed streets in Historic Downtown Glendale, watch 20 tethered hot-air balloons gently expand as pilots fire them up, and enjoy 11 different bands performing rock, blues, country and pop music.

This year’s “After Glow” concert will feature the California-based tribute band Journey Unauthorized performing from 9:30-11 p.m.

New this year will be a LEGO event in which kids can participate in onsite brick-building, with LEGO-building contests every half hour. LEGO aficionados can show off their skills, but get here early; the LEGO contests are on a first-come, first-served basis. Sign-ups start at 4 p.m. at 57th Drive, between Glenn Drive and Glendale Avenue.

Event attendees will have the option of paying for preferred parking in the two downtown garages, located at City Hall and the Bank of America building, both accessible from 59th Avenue and Glenn Drive. The preferred parking fee is $10. For those who prefer the free parking option, shuttles run all evening long, and pick up from the northeast parking lots of Glendale Community College, located off of 59th Avenue, north of Olive Avenue. 

Glendale’s Glitter and Glow Block Party is sponsored by APS, Valley Buick GMC, Monster Energy Drink, Phoenix Coyotes, ABC-15, KOOL, KMLE, JAMZ, The Arizona Republic, Sedona Pines, Pacific Monarch and Glendale Community College. Call 623-930-2299 for more information.

Entertainment Line-up

Times, and groups subject to change

Plan on taking pictures out at the event? Use these tips from a pro!

Nighttime photo taking tips from professional photographer Mark Lipczynski.

1. Find a focal point or one interesting point of interest to photograph. This will minimize distractions in the picture and give your eye a place to "rest" when reading the photo. 
2. Use the rule of thirds. Imagine your view finder is divided into thirds horizontally and vertically. Place your subject(s) in an area where the imaginary lines converge to make less static pictures.
3. Using a tripod will help you get sharp and clear pictures. If a tripod is not available, set your camera on a stable surface like a park bench, a low wall or the ground.
4. Experiment by taking lots of pictures. Digital photographs are practically free. You've already spent the cash on the gear, use it.
5. Use the self-timer to make sure the camera doesn't shake from pushing the button when taking a picture.