Light Up the Night Christmas Tree Lighting
Guests gather in the park to watch the majestic Christmas tree light up as gentle snowflakes fall overhead. The evening features live musical performances across two stages, local food trucks, bounce houses, and play areas with snow. Families can also greet Santa and Mrs. Claus alongside classic holiday characters.
What to Expect
Free downtown holiday celebration featuring falling snow, live music, and Santa.
Event Details
Food & Drink
Food trucks serve a variety of food, and hot cocoa is available.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children
Vibe
Festive and lively
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
Free
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Free admission; the event is open to all at no cost to attendees.
- Hours: 5:00 PM festivities begin; 6:00 PM Santa arrives; 6:15–7:45 PM Evan Taylor Jones on Stage 1; 7:00–8:25 PM Stage 2 entertainment; 8:15–9:45 PM Josie Sal on Stage 1; 8:30 PM tree lighting; 9:00 PM 50/50 raffle drawing.
- Parking: Downtown has free on-street parking and a free public garage at Herald Court Centre; the Sunloft Center garage is paid parking.
Tips & Advice
- Arrive in time to visit vendors and enjoy the activities before the tree-lighting ceremony.
- Choose a stage in advance if you want to catch a particular performance, as entertainment runs on two stages.
- Use the free Herald Court Centre public garage or look for free on-street parking downtown.
- Bring children ready to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, take photos and share their Christmas wishes.
- If you want to enter the 50/50 raffle, buy tickets during the event before the drawing.
Special Events & Promotions
- Admission is free for all attendees.
- Santa and Mrs. Claus make an appearance during the celebration.
- Evan Taylor Jones performs on Stage 1.
- Holiday entertainment is scheduled on Stage 2.
- Josie Sal performs on Stage 1.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the tree-lighting celebration suitable for children?
Yes. The free event is open to all ages and includes bounce houses, snow play and holiday characters.
What can we do while we wait for the tree lighting?
You can visit vendors, enjoy the music and entertainment on two stages, explore the bounce houses and snow play, and meet Santa and Mrs. Claus.
What food and drinks are available?
Food trucks and hot cocoa are available. Raffle tickets are sold during the event.
Is there parking nearby?
Downtown has free on-street parking and a free public garage at Herald Court Centre. The Sunloft Center garage is paid parking.
Can we meet Santa and Mrs. Claus?
Yes. They arrive during the celebration, where children can wave, take photos and share their wish lists.
More Christmas Events near Port Charlotte
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