Light Up Downtown Day 1: Traverse City Tree Lighting
Light Up Downtown Day 1: Traverse City Tree Lighting
11/20/2026 06:00 pm - 10:00 pm
There's nothing quite like the magic of the holidays in Downtown Traverse City. The annual Light Up Downtown Celebration transforms downtown into a sparkling winter wonderland. Whether you're continuing a family tradition or experiencing it for the first time, Light Up Downtown is the perfect way to celebrate the season and enjoy everything downtown has to offer.
Double the Holiday Magic in Downtown Traverse City
When: Friday, November 20
Over the years, our cozy downtown tree lighting and light parade, hosted by the Downtown Traverse City Association (DTCA), has grown into a massive community tradition drawing nearly 20,000 spectators to Front Street. To ensure the event remains safe, comfortable, and sustainable for everyone, we're expanding our holiday kickoff into a full two-day celebration dubbed "Light Up Downtown!"
Splitting the festivities across Friday and Saturday eases sidewalk and street congestion, gives families more space to enjoy every moment, and creates double the holiday cheer for our downtown merchants and visitors alike.
Weekend Schedule at a Glance
Friday, Nov 20 | Traverse City Tree Lighting (Produced by the DTCA): Enjoy special holiday activities, treat giveaways, music and games, Santa's arrival, the official Tree Lighting, and visits to Santa's House afterward. More Details to come!
Saturday, Nov 21 | Traverse City Light Parade (Produced in partnership with The Festival Foundation): Grab a spot along Front Street to watch glowing floats, marchers, and decked-out vehicles illuminate the night.
Sponsor the Magic
Want to help light up Downtown? Join us as a sponsor of this two-day celebration, Light up Downtown! Connect with Sara Klebba to receive a sponsorship packet to check out the various partnership opportunities.
Seeking Volunteers
The Traverse City Tree Lighting on Friday, November 20, needs some helpful elves to make the magic happen! Please consider supporting your community and sign up today.
Volunteer Sign-Up