Illustration of a tree lighting scene (Carl Schurz Park Holiday Tree Lighting)
Other Christmas Activities

Carl Schurz Park Holiday Tree Lighting

Gather with the community to watch the lighting of the park's dazzling holiday tree. Visitors can listen to traditional carols performed by the professional choir Cantori New York alongside the New York Brass Quintet. Attendees can also enjoy complimentary treats, including hot chocolate, cookies, and candy canes.

What to Expect

Community tree lighting featuring live choral carols, brass music, and sweet treats.

Event Details

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

Upper East Side

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

Carl Schurz Park Conservancy

Food & Drink

Complimentary hot chocolate, cookies, and candy canes are available.

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families and community members

Vibe

Festive and communal

Energy Level

Low

Budget

Free

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

High

Location

Carl Schurz Park
East End Avenue between East 84th and East 90th Streets
New York, NY

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: Free admission.
  • Hours: 5pm.
  • Accessibility: Wheelchair access is available at the East 84th and East 87th Street entrances and along John Finley Walk.

Tips & Advice

  • Dress for the weather, because the tree lighting goes ahead rain, snow or shine and you'll be outdoors in the park in the evening.
  • Arrive at the start so you catch the lighting itself, along with carols from Cantori New York and the New York Brass Quintet.
  • Bring the whole family and warm up with the free hot chocolate, cookies and candy canes.
  • If you need wheelchair access, use the East 84th or East 87th Street entrance, or come in along the John Finley Walk.
  • The park has entrances at East 84th, 86th, 87th and 89th Streets off East End Avenue, so pick whichever is closest to you.

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tree lighting good for families?

Yes. It's a family tradition in the neighborhood, and it's free and open to all.

What music is there?

The professional choir Cantori New York sings carols, accompanied by the New York Brass Quintet, an armed forces brass band.

Are there any treats?

Yes. There's free hot chocolate, cookies and candy canes.

What happens if the weather is bad?

The lighting goes ahead rain, snow or shine.

Which park entrances have wheelchair access?

The East 84th and East 87th Street entrances, plus the John Finley Walk.

Tags

tree lightingcommunity celebrationfamily friendlyconcertslive musicholiday traditionfree eventfestive atmosphereholiday cheer

More Christmas Events Near New York

More Christmas Events near Astoria

Open the map around Astoria →

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

Last Updated: Oct 20, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team