Illustration of a generic lights scene (Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony)
Christmas Lights

Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

Visitors can gather on Water Street to enjoy crafts, hot chocolate, and holiday musical performances presented by local school groups. Santa and Mrs. Claus make a special appearance before the Paducah Board of Commissioners flips the switch to light the 26-foot Christmas tree.

What to Expect

Watch the lighting of a 26-foot tree and visit Santa.

Event Details

Food & Drink

Hot chocolate is available at the event.

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families and local holiday seekers

Vibe

Festive and community-minded

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

High

Location

Water Street in front of the large floodwall opening
Water Street between Broadway and Jefferson Street, Paducah, KY
Paducah, KY

Know Before You Go

  • Hours: The celebration begins at 5:30 p.m.; the official tree lighting is at the end of the celebration.

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive near the beginning to catch the celebration’s musical performances, crafts, and refreshments before the official tree lighting at the end.
  • Dress warmly for the outdoor gathering on Water Street, where you’ll be standing to watch performances and the tree lighting.
  • Leave your car off Water Street between Broadway and Jefferson, which will be closed to vehicular traffic for the event.
  • Stay through the celebration’s finale to see the 26-foot tree illuminated when the Board of Commissioners flips the switch.
  • After the ceremony, stroll downtown to see holiday lights on Locomotive 1518, Broadway trees and shrubs, and City Hall.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Santa and Mrs. Claus visit the ceremony.

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

What activities are planned for the ceremony?

Visitors can enjoy crafts, hot chocolate, musical performances by local school groups, and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus.

What will the tree lighting look like?

The Paducah Board of Commissioners will switch on the lights of a 26-foot Christmas tree.

Which other holiday decorations can visitors see around town?

Downtown displays include Locomotive 1518, trees and shrubs along Broadway, Paducah City Hall, and pole decorations on Jefferson Street and Walter Jetton Boulevard.

Can visitors drive along Water Street during the event?

No. Water Street between Broadway and Jefferson is closed to vehicular traffic for the event.

More Christmas Events near Paducah

Open the map around Paducah →

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.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Oct 10, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team