Illustration of a lit evergreen tree with a gold star and red baubles as small townsfolk gather in a snowy village at night (San Marcos Tree Lighting Ceremony)

San Marcos Tree Lighting Ceremony

Guests can explore a variety of local craft and food vendors throughout the community center. Children can make crafts and take a commemorative photo with Santa. The celebration concludes with an official council greeting and the lighting of the holiday tree.

Map It Details Official site

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Plan Your Visit

Website / Tickets

sanmarcosca.gov

When

Hours

Event: 1-7 p.m.; Free Photo with Santa: 1-5 p.m.; Craft & Food Vendors: 1-7 p.m.; Free Children's Crafts: 1-7 p.m.; Council Greeting: 5:45 p.m.; Tree Lighting: 6 p.m.

Ages

All ages

Food & Drink

Food vendors sell food on-site.

Going?

Location

See it and nearby events on the map
San Marcos Community Center · 3 Civic Center Drive, San Marcos, CA 92069 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families with young children

Vibe

Festive and community-minded

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

Tips & Advice

  • Get your free Santa photo in the afternoon, because Santa photos end before the evening council greeting and tree lighting.
  • Stay through the evening for the council greeting, which comes right before the tree lighting closes out the day.
  • Let kids stop at the free craft tables anytime, since children's crafts run for the whole event, not just part of it.
  • Come hungry and with gift money in mind, since local craft and food vendors are open for the entire event.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Free photos with Santa run in the afternoon only and end before the evening program.

Links & Contact

Run by City of San Marcos

Website / Tickets

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 for kids?

Kids can make free crafts throughout the event and get a free photo with Santa during the afternoon.

Is there food?

Yes. Food vendors set up alongside the craft vendors for the whole event.

What happens at the end of the day?

The City Council gives a greeting, and then the holiday tree is lit.

How can I take part as a vendor or performer?

The City of San Marcos takes applications from artisan vendors, food vendors and performers.

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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.

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