California Christmas Tree Ceremony

Los Gatos Tree Lighting

December 1, 2023, 5-7 p.m. | 6 p.m. Tree Lighting

Held Friday night before the 1st Saturday in December

Town Plaza Park
North Santa Cruz & Main Street
1-99 S Santa Cruz Ave
Los Gatos, CA 95030
losgatosca.gov

Mayor's Welcome & Youth Citizens of the Year Awards | Tree Lighting, Santa's Arrival, and Photos with Santa

Los Gatos Community Foundation and the Town of Los Gatos for the Annual Tree Lighting Festivities begin at 5:00 Lighting of the Tree at 6:00 Santa arrives at 6:01 Refreshments will be sold.

Highlights

  • Winter Wonderland Light Show
  • Snow Flurries
  • Story Walk
  • Visit from Santa Claus
  • Tree Lighting
  • Fisher Middle School Chamber Strings

 This free night of family fun includes live music from Los Gatos school bands, choirs and local musicians along with appearances by the Los Gatos Town Council and other Town dignitaries. The historic fir tree planted in 1923 by the Los Gatos History Club comes to life when the Mayor flips the switch at 6:00 p.m. and the magnificent tree lights up. Just then Santa will arrive on a classic fire truck along with the Santa Clara County Fire Department and the Los Gatos Police Department.

Once Santa arrives you'll have the opportunity to take a photo with him while you enjoy free holiday treats, arts & crafts and play in the "snow," storm! The Annual Tree Lighting celebration is held  in the heart of downtown Los Gatos at the corner of Main St. and Santa Cruz Ave.  

Children's Holiday Parade presented by the Los Gatos Lions Club and LGS Recreation!

The town of Los Gatos celebrates the holiday season with warmth and old-fashioned charm in a variety of events and activities that lead up to Christmas.

Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony The Town of Los Gatos and The Los Gatos Community Foundation, Inc. co-host the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony where a majestic fir was planted by the History Club of Los Gatos in 1923. The Mayor chooses a child to flick the switch to turn on the lights, followed by Santa's arrival and an old-fashioned sing-a-long. Enjoy popcorn, coffee and hot chocolate while watching the spectacular lighting of our Town Christmas tree. The Community Foundation collects toys for an annual Toys 4 Tots drive.

After the Tree Lighting on Friday night, villagers can delight in horse drawn carriage rides through historic neighborhoods with houses and streets adorned with twinkling lights. It's a holiday tradition that brings meaning to the the term "Christmas spirit". And there's a special group that Santa and everyone gives a nod to in thanks, the Los Gatos Chamber of Commerce, who sponsors the carriage rides.

Town Plaza Park North Santa Cruz & Main Street Located in the heart of downtown Los Gatos, the Town Plaza park plays host to many community events throughout the years. Whether you feel like getting a little work done in the great outdoors with the park's free WiFi service, or catching some warm sun rays by the park fountain, Town Park Plaza has it all.

Other great events in Los Gatos include the annual Bunny Fun Hunt held around Easter time, 4th of July celebration, and Halloween events, always in October.

Events are not guaranteed. It is your responsibility to confirm before going.


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