Middletown Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Parade & Ceremony
2026 dates not announced yet. Details are from 2025.
Experience the magic of the holiday season in Middletown with their Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Parade and Ceremony. This beloved tradition kicks off the festive season the day after Thanksgiving, featuring a lively parade that culminates in a special tree lighting ceremony at Festival Square, complete with Santa's assistance. Attendees can also enjoy a free screening of 'It's a Wonderful Life,' send letters to Santa, and celebrate the opening night of the city's ice rink.
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Plan Your Visit
Website / Tickets
Last year
Tickets
$
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Middletown
Food & Drink
Refer to the 'Downtown Dining Guide Here!' for options.
Parking
Refer to 'Our Downtown Parking Guide (PDF)' for details.
Accessibility
https://www.middletownny.gov/accessibility
Going?
Location
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early for the parade to secure a good viewing spot along North Street and West Main Street, as crowds are expected.
- Bring a self-addressed, stamped envelope with your letter to Santa to ensure it's mailed back to you.
- Check the 'Downtown Dining Guide' beforehand to plan your meal, as many local restaurants will be busy.
- Dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be outdoors for the parade and ceremony, and then potentially ice skating.
- Consider arriving by public transport or carpooling, as parking in the downtown area may be limited.
Special Events & Promotions
- Free showing of 'It's a Wonderful Life' at Paramount Theatre
- Free ice skating session on opening night of the ice rink
- Letters to Santa mailbox at Festival Square
Links & Contact
Run by Middletown Business Improvement District
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 time does the parade start?
The parade begins on North Street and proceeds to West Main Street, concluding at Festival Square.
Is there a cost to attend the tree lighting ceremony?
The event itself, including the parade and tree lighting, is free to attend. Some associated activities like the movie screening are also free.
Where can I find food and drinks?
You can refer to the 'Downtown Dining Guide' for a list of local dining options available before or after the event.
What are the hours for the ice rink opening?
The City of Middletown Ice Rink opens on this night, with a free skate session from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM at the Erie Way Park Pavilion.
Can I send a letter to Santa?
Yes, you can drop off letters to Santa in the 'Merry Mailboxes' at Festival Square. Remember to include a self-addressed envelope with postage for a reply.
Browse Christmas in Middletown
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.