Santa Fe Plaza Holiday Lighting Ceremony
other

Artistic rendering โ€“ Event may differ

Santa Fe Plaza Holiday Lighting Ceremony

Annual holiday tree lighting ceremony on The Plaza

About

Join the City of Santa Fe for their cherished annual Holiday Plaza Lighting ceremony. This beloved event officially kicks off the holiday season with live music, complimentary hot cocoa and cookies, and a variety of food trucks. The highlight is the magical countdown and illumination of the Plaza lights, preceded by the festive arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Our Take

Family Friendly

๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ (5/5)

Best For

Families, couples, community members

Vibe

Festive, traditional, community-oriented

Energy Level

Low to medium

Budget

FREE

Photo Friendly

๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Low (event proceeds rain or shine, but attendees should dress appropriately)

Special Events & Promotions

  • Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive by vintage fire truck
  • Countdown to lighting ceremony

Tags

tree lightingSanta visitscommunity celebrationfree eventfestive foodholiday traditionfamily friendlylive musicholiday cheer

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

Santa Fe, NM

Event Details

Pricing

FREE

Duration

3 hours 45 minutes

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

Downtown

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

City of Santa Fe

Practical Information

Accessibility

Americans with Disabilities Compliance information is available on the city's website.

Pet Policy

No pets allowed

Food & Drink

Hot Cocoa & Cookies, Food Trucks available

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for Santa's arrival and the lighting ceremony, as crowds are expected.
  • Dress warmly in layers, as the event takes place outdoors in late November and can get chilly after sunset.
  • Bring cash or a card for the food trucks, as not all vendors may accept digital payments.
  • Consider using public transportation or carpooling, as parking around The Plaza can be limited during popular events.
  • Download the event flyer beforehand for a detailed schedule of activities and timings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the event start?

Live music and activities begin at 4:15 p.m., with Santa's arrival at 5:45 p.m. and the official lighting at 6:30 p.m.

Is there food available at the event?

Yes, there will be food trucks offering a variety of options, along with complimentary hot cocoa and cookies.

What is the best way to get to The Plaza?

The City of Santa Fe Trails bus service is available. Parking around The Plaza may be limited, so consider public transport or carpooling.

Is the event suitable for children?

Yes, the event is family-friendly and includes activities like Santa's arrival and live music.

What is the weather typically like for this event?

Late November in Santa Fe can be cold, especially in the evening. It is recommended to dress in warm layers.

Nearby Places (9 total)

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Oct 23, 2025
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The ChristmasLocal.com editorial team

Follow us for updates and more events!