The Long Beach Christmas Tree Lighting 2026 is the official kickoff to the holiday season in Long Beach, featuring a dazzling display of lights and festive cheer. This much-anticipated event brings the community together to celebrate with music, entertainment, and holiday spirit. If you want to know what makes this event a must-see and how to make the most of your visit, keep reading for all the essential details.
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Thousands of Long Beach residents and visitors rang in the holiday season on Wednesday evening, Dec 3, with light-up reindeer antlers, Santa hats and holiday sweaters at the city’s 11th annual Christmas Tree Lighting celebration.
A 67-foot-tall Christmas tree and more than 500,000 lights illuminated the Terrace Theater Plaza in downtown Long Beach, officially kicking off festive celebrations for many in the region.
Long Beach kicks off the holiday season with tree lighting extravaganza …
The sky was aglow with fireworks and Christmas lights last night at the Long Beach Terrace Theater for the City’s seventh annual tree lighting.
The City’s Christmas tree, coated in rainbow ornaments, towered over a crowd of onlookers donning sequined antlers and Christmas hats. To the edges of the fountain, children took rides on a miniature train and got their pictures taken with the man of the season, Mr. Claus himself.
Christmas Events & Experiences in Southern California
Festival of Arts (backstage Irvine Bowl) | Laguna BeachJanuary 10-12, 2025✳️ FREE!The world-famous Pageant of the Masters is looking for volunteers to participate in the 2025 summer presentation of “Gold Coast: Treasures of California.”Whether on stage or behind the scenes in wardrobe, makeup, or headdress, there’s a role for everyone of all ages—no experience needed. You can even bring your friends, family and neighbors for the chance to volunteer together. It’s a one-of-a-kind volunteer opportunity you’ll never forget!On Sunday, January 12, join the Pageant for Family Fun Fest—featuring food trucks, art activities, games, and fun for everyone! Learn more at www.foapom.com/volunteer.
Columbia Memorial Space Center | DowneySaturday, December 7, 2024✳️ FREE!Join the Columbia Memorial Space Center for their annual Apollo Capsule Lighting event! This unique lighting ceremony also features TubaChristmas! Tuba players unite to bring the magic of the season with classic holiday tunes. The TubaChristmas concert is held 4:30-5:30pm followed by the lighting of the capsule. Families can also enjoy plenty of hands-on STEM activities where science meets the holidays.
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The Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center comprises several venues in the heart of downtown Long Beach. Credit: Visit Long Beach
According to Steve Goodling, CEO of Visit Long Beach, “a convention should be a source of pride for the people who live there. Many residents drive by their convention centers, but they never get to experience them.”
Long Beach’s 8th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Firewo… | Flickr
December 5, 2022 – Long Beach’s 8th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Fireworks Show at the Long Beach Terrace Theater! This was my first time ever attending, and I was so impressed!
Christmas in Long Beach
Grab the entire family and head out to experience the best things to do in Long Beach this Christmas, along with Christmas in Seal Beach when you are in search of some incredible holiday fun. These two towns along the Pacific Coast Highway are filled with so much holiday cheer you won’t have enough time to enjoy it all.
We’ve compiled a list of all of the fun things to do in Long Beach during the holidays, but there is always more fun to find in California.
Thousands of people gathered at the Long Beach Performing Arts Center in downtown to kick off the 2022 holiday season.
LONG BEACH, CA — Thousands of people gathered at the Long Beach Performing Arts Center in Downtown for the 8th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on Monday night.
Prominent members of the community celebrated the start of the holiday season and spoke about what community really means. Outgoing Mayor Robert Garcia, who was elected as the state representative for California’s 42nd district in November’s election, said he was sad to be leading his last lighting ceremony for the city.
Mayor Garcia Lights Long Beach Christmas Tree – YouTube
Accompanied by fireworks and a brass band, Mayor Robert Garcia flipped the switch on Long Beach’s 50-foot Christmas Tree with 66,000 colorful LED lights.
Your Go-To-Guide to the 2025 Best Tree Lighting Ceremonies in California
California celebrations of lighting the tree go beyond traditional holiday fare; they serve as major community events that bring together families, local businesses, entertainers, and guests to mark the beginning of the Christmas season.
From old cities to huge entertainment venues, these events display meticulously planned Christmas light displays supported by professional-grade installations from St. Nick’s Christmas Lighting & Decor and vibrant live entertainment. It’s an unforgettable Christmas experience.
About The Claus
Santa may check the list twice—but I check it thrice. And this year? Well… let’s just say Southern California wasn’t on the nice list… or the naughty list.
So I came to Southern California myself—on a mission to find the magic, celebrate the joy, and spotlight the people, places, and businesses that truly belong on the nice list. 🎄✨
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the Long Beach Christmas Tree Lighting 2026 take place?
The event is typically held in early December, but exact dates for 2026 will be announced closer to the holiday season. Keep an eye on official Long Beach community calendars for updates.
Where is the Long Beach Christmas Tree Lighting 2026 held?
The tree lighting ceremony usually takes place at a central public location in Long Beach, such as a city park or downtown area, designed to accommodate large crowds and festive activities.
Are there any activities or entertainment during the Long Beach Christmas Tree Lighting 2026?
Yes, the event features live music, holiday performances, food vendors, and activities for families and children, creating a fun atmosphere for all ages.
Is the Long Beach Christmas Tree Lighting 2026 free to attend?
Generally, the tree lighting event is free to the public, making it an accessible holiday celebration for the entire community.
Can visitors bring their own food and drinks to the Long Beach Christmas Tree Lighting 2026?
Policies on outside food and drinks vary by venue, so it’s best to check official event guidelines beforehand. Many events offer food vendors on-site for convenient holiday treats.