Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Visitors gather at Rosa Parks Circle for the lighting of the downtown Christmas tree alongside the City of Grand Rapids. Santa arrives on site to join the ceremony and meet with children. Following the lighting, guests can participate in family-friendly activities.
Sat, Nov 21, 2026 All ages Free.
See more other Christmas activities near Grand Rapids
Plan Your Visit
Hours
Parade: 5:00 p.m.; Santa arrives at Rosa Parks Circle around 6:30 p.m.; tree lighting at 6:45 p.m.
Location
Tips & Advice
- Bundle up, as the event takes place outdoors in downtown Grand Rapids.
- Choose a spot along the route from Division Avenue and Michigan Street to Monroe Avenue to watch the parade.
- Stay at Rosa Parks Circle after the parade to see Santa and the tree-lighting ceremony.
- Bring children to the letter-writing station to send their letters to the North Pole.
- Register in advance if you want to enter the parade or volunteer.
Special Events & Promotions
- The event is free to attend.
- Santa appears at the tree-lighting ceremony and meets with children.
- A children’s letter-writing station offers free USPS delivery to the North Pole.
- Family-friendly activities follow the tree lighting.
Links & Contact
Run by Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
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
Is the parade suitable for families?
Yes. The event is family-friendly and includes a children’s letter-writing station and activities after the tree lighting.
Do visitors need to book ahead?
No booking information is given for visitors; the event is free to attend.
What happens during the event?
More than 50 parade entries travel through downtown, Santa visits Rosa Parks Circle for the tree-lighting ceremony, and family activities follow.
Can children send a letter to Santa?
Yes. A children’s letter-writing station offers free USPS delivery to the North Pole.
How can people take part in the parade or help out?
You can register to enter the parade or sign up to volunteer in roles such as lineup volunteer, parade-entry chaperone, corner marshal or Candy Elf.
Browse Christmas in Grand Rapids
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.