Olde Towne Holiday Lights
2026 dates not announced yet. Details are from 2025.
Experience the magic of Olde Towne Holiday Lights, a progressive celebration that illuminates the city. Festivities kick off with music, face painting, and holiday characters. Witness the official tree lighting ceremony, complete with falling snow and a dazzling pyrotechnic display. Follow bagpipers to discover more festive stops, including Santa's grand arrival by fire truck. Enjoy free hot cocoa and cider, and explore open shops.
All ages FREE
See more Christmas lights near Portsmouth
Plan Your Visit
Last year
Neighborhood
Olde Towne
Featured Performers
- Children's Chorus
- Carolers of Christmas Past
- Snow Queen
- Sugar Plum Fairy
- Bagpipers
- Don Comer
Food & Drink
Free hot cocoa and hot cider, food truck, and refreshments in some shops.
Location
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early to secure a good spot for the tree lighting and Santa's arrival, as crowds are expected.
- Follow the bagpipers to discover each new stop in the progressive lighting event.
- Bring your camera for complimentary photos with holiday characters and at the tree, sponsored by the Olde Towne Farmers Market.
- Check out the Nativity Scene at Monumental Methodist Church between 5 PM and 7:30 PM for a traditional display.
- Many Olde Towne shops will be open, offering a chance for holiday shopping and potentially finding music and light refreshments.
Special Events & Promotions
- First 100 commemorative photos are free (one per family).
- Free hot cocoa and hot cider sponsored by Cure Coffeehouse.
- Music and light refreshments in some open shops.
Links & Contact
Run by Olde Towne Business Association
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 time does the event officially kick off?
The official kickoff begins at 6 PM with a welcome from the Mayor, followed by greetings from Father Christmas and a performance by the Carolers of Christmas Past.
Are there activities for children?
Yes, there is face painting, make-and-take activities, and holiday-themed characters walking around.
Where can I get photos taken?
You can get printed family photos at the tree or with holiday characters, sponsored by the Olde Towne Farmers Market and Mobile Photo Lab. Digital copies are also available.
Is there food and drink available?
Yes, Cure Coffeehouse is sponsoring free hot cocoa and hot cider, and there will be a food truck at Post Secondary.
Is there a cost to attend?
Admission to the Olde Towne Holiday Lights event is free.
Browse Christmas in Portsmouth
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.