Kalamazoo’s holiday tradition returns with tree lighting ceremony
The Friday, November 29 event will include entertainment and activities for all ages. It’s also serving as a toy collection drive.
Get ready for the holidays with the City of Kalamazoo’s Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. The event is from 5-7 p.m. Friday, November 29, at Bronson Park (200 S. Rose St.), with the main tree lighting at approximately 6 p.m.
The evening promises a variety of entertainment and activities for all ages, including music and dance performances, a kids’ craft tent courtesy of Kalamazoo Valley Museum, a sElfie station with holiday props, and a gingerbread-themed photo tent. Guests can also enjoy visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus and share their holiday gratitude for a chance to be featured on Kzoo Parks’ social media.
This year, the event will also serve as a toy collection drive for children in need. Attendees are invited to bring new or gently used toys for children ages 10 and under. The toys will be donated to the Kalamazoo Youth Action Council’s (KYAC) December to Remember event.
Von Washington Jr., executive director of community relations for the Kalamazoo Promise, will emcee the festivities. Musical performances will begin at 5 p.m., featuring pop singer-songwriter Sophia MacIntosh, funk-rock-blues duo Serita’s Black Rose, and R&B soul artist Dylan Tolbert. The official tree lighting will follow a reading of the poem “Holiday Season in Kalamazoo” by the mayor, city commissioners, city manager, and Santa.
After the park is lit, the entertainment continues with a performance by the Kalamazoo Civic Carolers, blues and R&B soul trio The Kennedy Affair, and the Trinity Prep Center dance team.
This free event welcomes all community members. Complimentary hot chocolate will be available, and vendors will sell food and refreshments.
Free rides on the Holly Jolly Trolley will be available through downtown from 5-9 p.m. during and after the event. South Street will be closed to traffic near the park from 1-7 p.m. to accommodate the event.
The City of Kalamazoo’s Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony is a beloved tradition dating back over 90 years, according to City Commission Meeting Minutes from 1937. The Tree Lighting Ceremony promises a magical start to the holiday season for the Kalamazoo community.
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