Illustration of Santa ringing a bell on a decorated outdoor stage while families gather on the snowy lawn (Kentwood Tree Lighting Ceremony and Stationary Holiday Parade)
Other Christmas Activities

Kentwood Tree Lighting Ceremony and Stationary Holiday Parade

Visitors can stroll through the parking lot to explore stationary parade floats, vehicles, and displays, casting a vote for their favorite entry. The celebration features the annual tree lighting, hot chocolate, a snow globe photo booth, and visits with Santa. Guests can also warm up inside the center for children's crafts and mini performances of the "Nutcracker" by the Michigan Ballet Academy.

Thu, Dec 3, 2026 All ages

Plan Your Visit

Hours

6:00-8:00 p.m.; 6:00 p.m. stationary holiday parade; 6:30 p.m. tree lighting; 6:45-8 p.m. visit with Santa and kids crafts; 7:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Nutcracker performances.

Food & Drink

Hot chocolate is available at the event.

Location

Kentwood Community Center · 4755 Walma SE, Kentwood, MI Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families with young children

Vibe

Festive and community-focused

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

Tips & Advice

  • Bring non-perishable food donations for the Little Free Pantry, which accepts contributions to help the pantry through winter.
  • Arrive at 6 p.m. to walk through the stationary parade and vote before the tree lighting at 6:30 p.m.
  • Dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes, since parade viewing involves walking through the parking lot outdoors.
  • Plan indoor activities around the schedule: kids’ crafts begin at 6:45 p.m., with Nutcracker mini performances at 7 and 7:30 p.m.
  • If you want to enter the parade, register through the event page or contact Kentwood Parks and Recreation.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Santa visits during the event.

Links & Contact

Run by City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their website.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I see at the stationary parade?

You can walk through the parking lot to view floats, vehicles and other entries, then vote for your favorite.

What activities are available for children?

Children can do crafts inside the Community Center, visit Santa and see the snow globe photo booth.

Are there live performances?

The Michigan Ballet Academy presents two mini performances of the Nutcracker inside the Community Room.

Is food or drink available?

Hot chocolate is available at the event.

Can I enter a float or help at the event?

Groups, businesses, schools and families can register to join the stationary parade. Volunteers are also needed.

Browse Christmas in Kentwood

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Contributors & Updates

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