Illustration of felt carolers in red coats and hats holding songbooks and lanterns beside a snowman on snowy steps (Bay Street Tree Lighting)

Bay Street Tree Lighting

Visitors gather in front of Sephora to celebrate the annual holiday tree lighting ceremony and take in the seasonal festivities. The celebration features choral performances by the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir Youth Program and the Oakland Youth Chorus. Guests can also see Santa join the chorus on stage to sing Jingle Bells.

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Plan Your Visit

When

Hours

6:00 PM–8:00 PM; Oakland Youth Chorus joins Santa at 7pm, then OYC takes the stage.

Ages

All ages

Going?

Location

Bay Street · Emeryville, CA 94608 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 ⚪ (4/5)

Best For

Families and holiday music fans

Vibe

Festive and communal

Energy Level

Low

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive before the 6:15 p.m. tree lighting to enjoy the festivities leading up to the ceremony, as the event page recommends.
  • Plan to be there by 7 p.m. to see Oakland Youth Chorus join Santa for “Jingle Bells,” followed by OYC’s stage performance.
  • Bring warm layers for the outdoor evening gathering, especially for children who may be standing during the ceremony and performances.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for standing outdoors through the tree-lighting ceremony and youth choir performances, especially if you arrive early.
  • Have a camera or phone ready around the tree lighting and Santa’s song for seasonal snapshots.

Links & Contact

Run by Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir

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 contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens at the ceremony?

Bay Street lights its holiday tree, and OIGC's Youth Program performs. After the lighting, the Oakland Youth Chorus joins Santa for Jingle Bells and then takes the stage.

Should I arrive before the tree lighting?

Yes. Festivities run on Bay Street before the tree is lit, so come early to enjoy them.

Will Santa be there?

Yes. Santa joins the Oakland Youth Chorus on stage to sing Jingle Bells.

Who performs?

The Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir's Youth Program and the Oakland Youth Chorus.

Browse Christmas in Oakland

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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