Artistic rendering – Event may differ
Apex Tree Lighting Ceremony
Town's first-ever tree lighting ceremony
About
Join the Apex community for a heartwarming Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 5th. This town-organized event features the ceremonial lighting of the first tree on the Town Hall Campus. Attendees can enjoy performances by local school bands and choirs, craft stations for making reindeer food and writing letters to Santa, and festive offerings from holiday vendors. Southbound Santa and Mrs. Claus will be present for early holiday photos, making it a perfect start to the festive season.
Our Take
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and community members
Vibe
Festive, community-oriented, cheerful
Energy Level
Low to medium
Budget
FREE
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate (performances may be cancelled, santa photos move indoors)
Special Events & Promotions
- First photos with Southbound Santa and Mrs. Claus
- Craft stations for reindeer food and letters to Santa
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.
Location
Event Details
Pricing
FREE
Duration
2.5 hours
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Apex
Timed Entry
No
Featured Performers
- Poetry Fox
- Cirque de Vol
- Middle School bands
- Apex High School Dance Program
- Apex Friendship Elementary Chorus
- Academy for the Performing Arts Show Choir
- UNC's The Tarpeggios
Organizer
Town of Apex
Practical Information
Parking
Refer to the downtown parking map for available parking locations.
Accessibility
The event is listed as 'rain or shine', but youth performances may be cancelled due to inclement weather. Photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus will move indoors in case of poor weather.
Pet Policy
No pets allowed (service animals welcome)
Food & Drink
Food vendors such as Arepa Culture, Cream and Sugar, Little Blue Bakehouse, and Mac Daddy's Food Truck will be present.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for the tree lighting ceremony and enjoy the full schedule of performances.
- Check the downtown parking map beforehand to plan your parking strategy, as the event is expected to draw a crowd.
- Dress in layers and be prepared for potential weather changes, as the event is rain or shine, though indoor options exist for Santa photos.
- Bring your letter to Santa to the craft station for a chance to write and send it directly from the event.
- Explore the offerings from the Apex Farmers Market vendors for unique holiday gifts and local treats.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a Community Event and a Town-Organized Event?
Community Events are run and planned by non-profit organizations, with the Town providing a location and staff support. Town-Organized Events, like the Tree Lighting Ceremony, are created, funded, and managed entirely by the Town of Apex staff.
What happens if it rains?
The tree lighting ceremony is a rain or shine event. However, youth performances may be cancelled due to inclement weather. Photos with Southbound Santa and Mrs. Claus will be moved indoors if necessary.
How can I get to the event?
You can drive and park using the downtown parking map for walkable locations. Public transportation is also available via GoApex Route 1, which will operate on its normal schedule.
Are there food options available?
Yes, several food vendors will be on-site, including Arepa Culture, Cream and Sugar, Little Blue Bakehouse, and Mac Daddy's Food Truck.
Can I take photos with Santa?
Yes, Southbound Santa and Mrs. Claus will be present for attendees to grab the season's first photos. In case of poor weather, these photos will move indoors.
