Christmas Tree Lighting & Light up the Holidays Festival

The City of Joliet will officially kick off the holiday season with its annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday, November 27, at 5:00 p.m. in City Square, located at 90 N. Chicago Street. This year's celebration marks a special milestone as the City welcomes the holidays in the newly completed City Square, providing a festive setting for one of Joliet's most cherished traditions. 

The Tree Lighting Ceremony is part of a full day of holiday festivities downtown, including the 28th Annual Light Up the Holidays Festival & Parade, organized by the Joliet City Center Partnership (CCP). North Pole Park will bring family-friendly activities and holiday entertainment to City Square from 12:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., followed by the annual Light Up the Holidays Parade stepping off at 5:30 p.m. along Chicago Street. 

The City Square Christmas Tree will remain on display through Sunday, January 10, 2027, offering families and friends a festive gathering place throughout the season. Visitors are encouraged to enjoy the holiday lights, take photos, and drop off their holiday wish lists in Santa's Mailbox. 

For more information about the Tree Lighting Ceremony, visit www.joliet.gov. For Light Up the Holidays Festival and Parade details, visit www.jolietccp.com.