Illustration of Santa checking a long list at a desk with an elf while children peek around a door (Light Up Cornelius Tree Lighting)

Light Up Cornelius Tree Lighting

Thousands gather in Downtown Cornelius for the town's annual Christmas tree lighting celebration. Attendees can enjoy community group performances, trackless train rides, a model train display, children's activities, and a sledding hill. The festivities also include s'mores, food and drinks, and visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Map It Details Official site

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Plan Your Visit

When

Tickets

Free community event.

Hours

4-7 p.m.

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

Downtown Cornelius

Food & Drink

Food, drinks, and s'mores are available at the event.

Going?

Location

Downtown Cornelius · 21445 Catawba Avenue, Cornelius, NC 28031 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families with young children

Vibe

Festive and community-focused

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

High

Tips & Advice

  • Expect a big crowd, since thousands of people come downtown for the tree lighting each year.
  • Dress warmly for an evening outdoors, especially if the kids plan to try the sledding hill and ride the trackless train.
  • Save room for s'mores, which are sold along with the other food and drinks at the event.
  • Bring a camera for the visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus, who both come to the celebration.

Links & Contact

Run by Town of Cornelius Parks & Recreation Department

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

What is there to do?

The town tree lighting comes with performances by community groups, children's activities, a sledding hill, trackless train rides and a model train display.

Is there food?

Yes. Food and drinks are sold at the event, and there are s'mores too.

Will Santa be there?

Yes. Santa and Mrs. Claus both come to visit.

Is it good for kids?

Yes. Kids can enjoy the children's activities, the sledding hill, the trackless train rides, the model train display and the visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus.

How can I become a vendor or sponsor?

Cornelius Parks and Recreation has a sponsor and vendor information page that covers how to take part in its events.

Browse Christmas in Cornelius

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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