Illustration of a lit evergreen tree with red baubles and small figures in scarves near a glowing gazebo in snow (Tree Lighting and Fireworks at Riverfront Plaza)

Tree Lighting and Fireworks at Riverfront Plaza

Visitors gather along the St. Johns River to celebrate the official lighting of the City of Jacksonville's Christmas tree with Mayor Donna Deegan and special guests. Riverfront Plaza fills with holiday music, cheer, and family-friendly seasonal activities. Guests can also enjoy food trucks, festive treats, and hot cocoa throughout the celebration.

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Plan Your Visit

When

Hours

Holiday River Fest begins at 5:00 PM; the tree lighting ceremony is at 6:25 PM; after-parade fireworks are approximately 8:30 p.m.

Food & Drink

Food trucks, hot cocoa, and festive treats are available throughout the celebration.

Accessibility

Accommodations for persons with disabilities are available upon request.

Going?

Location

Riverfront Plaza · 2 W. Independent Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32202 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families and holiday-season visitors

Vibe

Festive and lively

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

High

Tips & Advice

  • Bring family or friends to enjoy the family-friendly activities and the tree-lighting celebration together.
  • Leave time to enjoy the food trucks, festive treats and hot cocoa during the festival.
  • Consider watching the Jacksonville Light Boat Parade along the riverfront before the after-parade fireworks.
  • Request disability accommodations in advance if you need them.

Special Events & Promotions

  • The City of Jacksonville’s Christmas tree returns to Riverfront Plaza for its second year.

Links & Contact

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

Who is the tree-lighting celebration suited to?

Families and friends are invited, and family-friendly activities take place around Riverfront Plaza.

What happens during the celebration?

The City’s Christmas tree is lit with Mayor Donna Deegan and special guests; the wider festival includes holiday music, food trucks, festive treats and hot cocoa, followed by fireworks.

Is there anything else to see along the riverfront that evening?

The Jacksonville Light Boat Parade cruises the St. Johns River as part of Holiday River Fest.

Are food and drinks available?

Food trucks, festive treats and hot cocoa are offered.

Can visitors request accessibility accommodations?

Accommodations for persons with disabilities are available upon request.

Browse Christmas in Jacksonville

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

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