Free Christmas events near me: parades, tree lightings and more.
Some of the best Christmas memories cost nothing at all. A marching band in the cold, a town tree that bursts into light, boats glowing on the water, Santa waving from the last float. Little kids don't need big tickets to feel the magic.
We found 180 free Christmas events in 28 US cities for 2026, including 89 free parades and tree lightings. Each one was checked on its official site, with dates, times and tips for going with kids.
Our honest take: the simple free outings win with little kids. Pick something that starts early enough for bedtime, get a front-row spot, and dress for the cold. Just know that "free" usually means free to get in. Rides, treats and photos can cost extra.
Updated . Dates and times change, so check the official site before you go.
Free Christmas events near me, by city
Pick your city to see its free parades and tree lightings first, then the other free events, like light shows, Santa visits and markets.
New YorkChicagoBostonWashington, DCNashvilleSeattleDenverSan DiegoSan FranciscoLos AngelesAtlantaHoustonSan AntonioGatlinburgPhiladelphiaPittsburghLas VegasOrlandoMiamiNew OrleansCharlotteKansas CityDallasAustinPhoenixSt. LouisTampaCincinnati
Free Christmas events in New York
Parades and tree lightings
- Free Good for toddlers
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
Dec 2 - Jan 2 Rockefeller Plaza
When: Lighting ceremony Wed, Dec 2, 7-10pm. Lit daily after that into January. Daily viewing hours not posted yet.
The famous tree arrives in early November and is lit on Dec 2. After that you can see it any day for free, with the rink below it.
Parent tip: Skip ceremony night with little kids. A weekday morning visit is usually much calmer.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade (100th)
Nov 26 Central Park West to Macy's Herald Square
When: Thu, Nov 26, from 8:30am to about noon
This year is the 100th parade, with a record 100 balloons and other inflatables. It runs about 2.5 miles from the Upper West Side to 34th Street.
Parent tip: Arrive very early and dress for a long, cold wait. Some stretches near the start and the TV area are closed to viewers.
Official site - Good for toddlers
Christmas in Historic Richmond Town
Dec 4-6 Historic Richmond Town, 441 Clarke Ave
When: Tree lighting Fri, Dec 4, 5-6pm (free). Christmas weekend Sat, Dec 5 from noon to Sun, Dec 6 at 4pm.
Cost: Tree lighting free. Weekend tickets are paid; see the official site.
An old village museum dresses up for one Christmas weekend. Families can watch old-time crafts, ride a horse-drawn carriage and visit Santa.
Parent tip: Come Friday evening for the free tree lighting if a full weekend day is too much.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Dumbo Holiday Tree Lighting
Dec 3 Dumbo Archway and Plaza
When: Thu, Dec 3, 4-7pm. Tree lit at 5:30pm.
A neighborhood tree lighting with live music, school choirs, free hot cocoa and treats. Santa comes with his elves, and there is a photo booth.
Parent tip: Bring an unwrapped toy for the toy drive. Kids can drop a letter in Santa's mailbox from Thanksgiving to Christmas Eve.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Madison Square Park Holiday Tree Lighting
Dec 3 Madison Square Park, 23rd St and Madison Ave
When: Thu, Dec 3, 4:30-5:30pm. Tree lit at about 5pm.
A short, one-hour tree lighting with live music, warm drinks and photo spots. It is a long-running city tradition.
Parent tip: There is no stroller parking, so a baby carrier is easier.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
NYSE Christmas Tree Lighting
Dec 3 New York Stock Exchange, 11 Wall St
When: Thu, Dec 3, 3:30-6:30pm
The Stock Exchange lights its big tree on Wall Street, with live music, snacks and a small holiday market.
Parent tip: Come before dark to walk around, then stay for the lighting.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Parade on Rockaway
Dec 4-6 Rockaway Blvd, 130th St to 143rd St
When: Tree lighting Fri, Dec 4, 6pm. Parade of lights Sat, Dec 5, 5pm. Free toy giveaway Sun, Dec 6, 2pm.
Three days of holiday events in Queens. There is a big tree lighting, a lit-up parade and a toy giveaway for kids.
Parent tip: The Saturday parade is the main event. Pick a spot near the start to leave early with little ones.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Bronx Little Italy Christmas Tree Lighting
Dec 5 Ciccarone Park, E 188th St and Arthur Ave
When: Sat, Dec 5, 4-6pm
A neighborhood tree lighting with Santa, carols, Italian cookies and hot chocolate from local shops.
Parent tip: Arthur Avenue's bakeries are steps away, so plan an early dinner nearby.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Carl Schurz Park Holiday Tree Lighting
Dec 6 Carl Schurz Park, E 86th St and East End Ave
When: Sun, Dec 6, 5pm. Held in any weather.
A small park tree lighting with a choir and brass band singing carols. Free hot chocolate, cookies and candy canes are handed out.
Parent tip: It goes ahead in rain or snow, so pack a rain cover for the stroller.
Official site
More free events
- Winter Village at Bryant Park · market · Oct 28 - Jan 3
- Santaland at Macy's Herald Square · Santa · Nov 27 - Dec 24
- Macy's Holiday Windows · lights · Nov 19 - Jan 4
- Grand Central Holiday Fair · market · Nov 9 - Dec 24
- Holiday Train Show at Grand Central (New York Transit Museum) · train · Nov 13 - Feb 28
- Santa in the Park (Marine Park) · Santa · Dec 5
- Santa's Corner at Bryant Park · Santa · Dec 14-18
Free Christmas events in Chicago
Parades and tree lightings
- Free Good for toddlers
Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
Nov 21 North Michigan Avenue, heading south from Oak Street
When: Sat Nov 21. Parade at 5:30pm, fireworks at 7:30pm.
A free evening parade moves down Michigan Avenue and lights up the street's trees for the season. Fireworks over the river end the night.
Parent tip: Pick a spot near the Oak Street end if you want to leave early. The fireworks are best seen from Wacker Drive by the river.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
City of Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting
Nov 20 Millennium Park, near Michigan Ave and Washington St
When: Fri Nov 20, in the evening. The tree stays up through the holidays.
The city lights its official Christmas tree in Millennium Park with a free show. The tree then stays lit for the season.
Parent tip: The Christkindlmarket opens the same day a few blocks west at Daley Plaza, so you can do both.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Chicago Thanksgiving Parade
Nov 26 State Street, from Ida B. Wells Dr. north to Randolph St.
When: Thu Nov 26, 8-10am. It steps off at 7:40am, earlier than in past years.
Chicago's Thanksgiving morning parade heads north up State Street. It's an easy way to start the holiday season downtown.
Parent tip: You can bring a blanket or a stadium seat. Outside food and drinks aren't allowed, and bags are checked.
Official site - Good for toddlers
Central Street Holiday Stroll and Tree Lighting
Nov 14 Central Street; tree lighting in Independence Park
When: Sat Nov 14, during the day. Tree lighting at 5pm.
Cost: No ticket price listed. Trolley rides are free.
Evanston's Central Street starts the season with shop deals, free trolley rides and street entertainment. The day ends with a tree lighting.
Parent tip: Come mid-afternoon so kids can ride the trolley before the 5pm lighting.
Official site - Good for toddlers
Illuminate the Orchard
Nov 21 Westfield Old Orchard
When: Sat Nov 21, 4-6pm. Fireworks at 5:30pm.
Cost: No ticket price listed
The mall lights its tree with Santa and Mrs. Claus, then ends the evening with fireworks.
Parent tip: It's short and early, which works well with small kids. Fireworks are loud, so bring ear covers.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Glenview Holiday in the Park and Parade
Nov 28 Glenview Road to Jackman Park, 1011 Lehigh Ave.
When: Sat Nov 28, 4-6pm
A small-town parade heads down Glenview Road to Jackman Park. In the park, kids can visit Santa and take a hay ride or a kids' train ride.
Parent tip: Free hot chocolate, cookies and popcorn are part of the fun. Dress warm, since it's all outside.
Official site - Good for toddlers
Geneva Christmas Walk
Dec 4 Downtown Geneva
When: Fri Dec 4, from 6pm. Santa arrives and the tree is lit between 6 and 6:30pm.
Cost: No ticket price listed. It's a street festival.
A small-town holiday night where Santa Lucia lights the big tree and Santa arrives. Carolers, a live nativity and roasted chestnuts fill the streets.
Parent tip: Get there before 6pm. The tree lighting and Santa come first, so you can head home early with little ones.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Downtown Evanston Holiday Light Celebration
Dec 5 Fountain Square
When: Sat Dec 5, 4:30-7pm. Tree lighting around 5pm.
Local singers perform, then the tree is lit in Fountain Square. Afterward, families can take free photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Parent tip: The Santa photos start around 5:30pm indoors at The Merion, 1611 Chicago Ave., a good place to warm up.
Official site
More free events
- Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza · market · Nov 20 - Dec 24
- Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville · market · Nov 20 - Dec 31
- Winter Fireworks at Navy Pier · festival · Nov 21 - Dec 26
- Winter Lights at Central Park · lights · Nov 20 - Jan 3
- Feztival of Trees · festival · Nov 23-28
Free Christmas events in Boston
Parades and tree lightings
- Free Good for toddlers
Boston Common Tree Lighting
Dec 3 Boston Common, by the Visitor Information Center (139 Tremont St)
When: Thu, Dec 3, 6-8pm
The city lights a big tree sent each year by Nova Scotia as a thank-you for help after a 1917 disaster. Right after, the trees on the Commonwealth Avenue Mall light up too.
Parent tip: Come early for a spot near the tree. With small kids, stand near the edge of the crowd for an easy exit.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Trellis Lighting at Christopher Columbus Park
Nov 23 Christopher Columbus Park, 110 Atlantic Ave
When: Mon, Nov 23, 5-6pm
The park's long waterfront trellis lights up for the season. There is live music, and Santa and Rudolph stop by.
Parent tip: It lasts only an hour, so it suits little kids. Free cocoa and cookies are part of the plan.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Lighting of the Ship at Martin's Park
Nov 28 Martin's Park, 64 Sleeper St
When: Sat, Nov 28, 5-6pm
A kids' party at the playground with the big wooden ship. Santa arrives by boat, and the ship and bridge light up.
Parent tip: Kids can meet the rangers' horses, climb on a fire truck and do a craft. Get there a bit early to see the boat come in.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Copley Square Tree Lighting
Nov 30 Copley Square, 560 Boylston St
When: Mon, Nov 30, 5-6pm
The city lights the Copley Square tree and opens the newly redone square. Expect crafts, a kids' choir, and Santa and Rudolph.
Parent tip: At 6pm, the Fairmont Copley Plaza hotel has cookies and photos with Santa.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Santa's Arrival and Holiday Tree Lighting in Salem
Nov 27 Hawthorne Hotel to Lappin Park (Essex St and Washington St)
When: Fri, Nov 27. Santa arrives at 6pm.
Santa lands on the roof of the Hawthorne Hotel with help from the fire department. He then leads a walk down Essex Street to light the town tree.
Parent tip: Be there by 5:45pm for a good view. Kids can carry lanterns in the walk; battery candles are safest. It runs rain or shine.
Official site
More free events
- Snowport Holiday Market · market · Nov 6 - Dec 27
- Enchanted Village at Jordan's Furniture · lights · Nov 13 - Jan 1
- Christmas Festival of Lights at La Salette Shrine · lights · Nov 21 - Jan 3
- Holiday Pig Wagon Lighting at Powisset Farm · lights · Dec 5
Free Christmas events in Washington, DC
Parades and tree lightings
- Free Good for toddlers
National Christmas Tree and Pathway of Peace
Dec 3 - Jan 1 The Ellipse, President's Park
When: Lighting ceremony Thu, Dec 3. Tree site open most evenings through Jan 1.
The big national tree near the White House, ringed by smaller trees for every state and territory. You can visit free after the lighting night.
Parent tip: Skip the crowded lighting night with little kids and go on a weeknight after. Check the news before you go: federal sites can close if the government shuts down.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Holiday Boat Parade at The Wharf
Dec 5 District Pier, The Wharf
When: Sat, Dec 5, about 5-8pm; fireworks around 8pm
More than 60 lit-up boats sail along the Washington Channel. There are Santa photos, crafts and fireworks to finish.
Parent tip: Crowds are big and garages fill fast. Take the Metro to Waterfront; it's a five-minute walk.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
CityCenterDC Holiday Tree Lighting
Nov 14 The Park at CityCenter
When: Sat, Nov 14, 5-7pm; lighting program at 6pm (rain date Nov 15)
A 78-foot tree is lit with a countdown. Before that, there's live music, face painting and balloon artists.
Parent tip: Come at 5pm for face painting before the 6pm lighting. Two giant 25-foot reindeer make a good photo spot.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Montgomery County Thanksgiving Parade
Nov 21 Ellsworth Dr and Fenton St, then south on Georgia Ave
When: Sat, Nov 21, starts 10am
A morning parade with floats, marching bands and big balloons. It starts with Thanksgiving themes and ends with winter holidays and Santa.
Parent tip: It's a morning parade, so it works around nap time. The Silver Spring Metro station is near the route.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Reston Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting
Nov 27 Reston Town Center (Main Street and Fountain Square)
When: Fri, Nov 27. Parade at 11am; tree lighting at 6pm.
A day-after-Thanksgiving parade with floats, marching bands and giant balloons. The town center tree is lit at sunset.
Parent tip: You don't need to stay all day. Pick the late-morning parade or the early-evening lighting, whichever suits naps.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Scottish Walk Holiday Parade
Dec 5 Streets of Old Town Alexandria
When: Sat, Dec 5, 10:30am-12:30pm
Scottish clans in tartan kilts march through Old Town with bagpipes and drums. Terriers and hounds march too, many in holiday outfits.
Parent tip: Bagpipes and drums are loud up close. Bring ear muffs for babies, and stay for the boat parade that evening.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights
Dec 5 Old Town Alexandria Waterfront and Waterfront Park
When: Sat, Dec 5. Waterfront activities 2-8pm; boats from 5:30pm.
Dozens of boats covered in lights cruise about a mile of the Potomac shoreline. Waterfront Park has food and activities in the afternoon.
Parent tip: Come in daylight to claim a spot by the water. It gets cold by the river after dark, so pack hats and blankets.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Festival of Lights and Carols
Dec 5 Old Town Square, 10415 North St
When: Sat, Dec 5, noon-6pm. Santa photos 3-5pm; tree lighting 5:30pm.
A small-town holiday afternoon with live music, kids' crafts and free s'mores and warm cider. It ends with carols and a tree lighting.
Parent tip: Come for Santa photos between 3 and 5pm, then stay for the 5:30pm tree lighting.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
McLean Winterfest Parade and Block Party
Dec 6 Old Chain Bridge Rd and Langley Shopping Center
When: Sun, Dec 6. Block party from 12:30pm; parade 1:30-2:45pm; Santa from 3pm.
A Sunday afternoon parade with bands, floats and dancers. A block party with food stands and a Santa station follows.
Parent tip: Santa's station opens after the parade, at 3pm. Get in line early, because the party ends at 4:30pm.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Leesburg Christmas and Holiday Parade
Dec 12 From Ida Lee Park down King Street
When: Sat, Dec 12, 6pm (rain date Sun, Dec 13)
An evening parade through Leesburg's historic downtown. Santa and his friends ride along at the end.
Parent tip: It starts at dark and it's cold, so bring layers and a blanket. Find a curb spot on King Street early.
Official site
More free events
- Season's Greenings at the US Botanic Garden · train · Nov 26 - Jan 3
- DC Holiday Market at Dupont Circle · market · Nov 12 - Dec 23
- DowntownDC Holiday Market · market · Nov 13 - Dec 23
- Frosted at Franklin Park · lights · Nov 13 - Jan 9
Free Christmas events in Nashville
Parades and tree lightings
- Good for toddlers
Hendersonville Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting
Dec 6 Main Street, then Memorial Park (151 E. Main St.)
When: Sun Dec 6. Parade at 2pm. Tree lighting right after.
Cost: No ticket price listed. It's a street parade.
A Sunday afternoon parade with more than 80 floats and groups goes down Main Street. Santa comes at the end, and the city tree is lit after.
Parent tip: An afternoon start makes this easy with toddlers. You can still be home for an early bedtime.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Deck the Hulls Christmas Boat Parade
Dec 5 Old Hickory Lake, from Drakes Creek past Mallard Park to Sanders Ferry Park
When: Sat Dec 5, 5:30-8pm
Boats covered in Christmas lights cruise along Old Hickory Lake after dark. You watch from the shore.
Parent tip: It gets cold by the water at night. Bring blankets and a thermos, and pick a spot near Mallard Park, where the judges sit.
Official site - Good for toddlers
Murfreesboro Christmas Parade
Dec 13 Historic East Main Street
When: Sun Dec 13, from 2pm
Cost: No ticket price listed. It's a street parade.
Murfreesboro's yearly Christmas parade rolls down historic East Main Street on a Sunday afternoon.
Parent tip: Pair it with the old-time village at Cannonsburgh if you go on a Friday or Saturday that month.
Official site
More free events
- Holiday Open House at Belle Meade · Santa · Nov 12
- The Rink Under the Giant Guitar · skating · Nov 20 - Jan 18
- Franklin Makers Holiday Market · market · Nov 14
- Holiday Market at the Mansion · market · Nov 21-22
- Christmas at Patterson · Santa · Dec 18-19
Free Christmas events in Seattle
Parades and tree lightings
- Free Good for toddlers
Snowflake Lane
Nov 27 - Dec 24 Bellevue Way between NE 4th and NE 8th Streets
When: Nightly at 7pm.
A free holiday parade with floats, music and dancers along Bellevue Way. It runs every night at 7pm and is short.
Parent tip: Get there a little early so small kids can stand at the front.
Official site - Good for toddlers
Westlake Park Tree Lighting and Holiday Carousel
Nov 27 - Jan 3 Westlake Park
When: Tree lighting party Fri Nov 27, 11am-6pm. Carousel runs Nov 27-Jan 3.
Cost: Tree lighting is free. Carousel price not posted yet.
Downtown's free kickoff party on the day after Thanksgiving, with the big tree lit in Westlake Park. A holiday carousel stays through early January.
Parent tip: The tree lighting draws very big crowds. Take the light rail to Westlake Station instead of driving.
Official site
More free events
- Seattle Center Winterfest · festival · Nov 27 - Dec 31
- Pathway of Lights at Green Lake · lights · Dec 12
- Holiday Night Market with Santa at Pike Place Market · market · Dec 10
- Winter Bonsai Solstice at Pacific Bonsai Museum · lights · Dec 12
Free Christmas events in Denver
Parades and tree lightings
- Free Good for toddlers
9NEWS Parade of Lights
Dec 5 Downtown Denver, starting at 14th and Bannock Streets
When: Saturday evening, Dec 5. Check the start time closer to the date.
Denver's big free night parade, with lit-up floats and Santa. The route loops about two miles through downtown.
Parent tip: Families claim curb spots early with chairs. Dress for a cold night and bring a blanket.
Official site - Good for toddlers
Candlelight Walk in Downtown Littleton
Nov 27 Main Street, Downtown Littleton
When: Fri Nov 27, 5-8pm.
Cost: No entry fee posted. Food and drinks cost extra.
Littleton's holiday kickoff, with a parade, music and performers on Main Street. Santa helps light the trees, and a drone show follows.
Parent tip: Hot cocoa and cider are sold. It is an evening event outdoors, so bring hats and mittens.
Official site - Good for toddlers
Lights of December Parade (Boulder)
Dec 12 Starts at 15th and Walnut, loops via Broadway and Spruce
When: Sat Dec 12, 6pm.
Cost: No fee posted.
A night parade of lit-up floats built by local businesses, schools and groups. Santa comes at the very end.
Parent tip: The reviewing stand is at Broadway and Pearl. Pick a spot along the route early and dress for cold.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Golden Holiday Parade
Dec 12 Washington Avenue, 10th to 13th Streets
When: Sat Dec 12, 10:30am.
A morning parade in historic downtown Golden, with bands, floats, carolers and Santa. Kids can drop off letters to Santa at the Golden Welcome Center.
Parent tip: Free carriage rides run noon-2pm after the parade. Leave chairs and pets at home, since it gets crowded.
Official site
More free events
- Denver Christkindlmarket · market · Nov 20 - Dec 23
- The Mile High Tree · lights · Nov 20 - Dec 31
- Switch on the Holidays in Downtown Boulder · lights · Nov 22
Free Christmas events in San Diego
Parades and tree lightings
- Free Good for toddlers
San Diego Bay Parade of Lights
Dec 13-20 San Diego Bay, from Shelter Island
When: Sun, Dec 13 and Sun, Dec 20, starts 5:30pm
Dozens of boats covered in lights sail along the bay. You can watch from several spots on the shore.
Parent tip: Top viewing spots fill up, so arrive early. Bring warm layers for the wait by the water.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
La Jolla Christmas Parade and Holiday Festival
Dec 6 Girard Ave to La Jolla Recreation Center
When: Sun, Dec 6. Parade starts 1pm; festival 1-5pm.
A small-town style daytime parade, now in its 70th year. A free festival with Santa follows at the rec center.
Parent tip: It's a daytime parade, so it works well with nap-time kids. Reserve a Santa slot early.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Coronado Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting
Dec 4 Orange Ave to Rotary Park
When: Fri, Dec 4, evening (check start time)
A hometown evening parade down Coronado's main street. The town tree is lit when it ends.
Parent tip: Bring chairs and claim a curb spot early. Pair it with the lights at Hotel del Coronado.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Little Italy Tree Lighting and Christmas Village
Dec 5 Piazza della Famiglia and India Street
When: Sat, Dec 5, 4-8pm; tree lighting 6:30pm
A street party with live music, treats, a gift market on India Street and a tree lighting. Santa comes too.
Parent tip: Take the trolley to the Little Italy stop. Streets close and parking is hard that night.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Liberty Station Tree Lighting
Nov 27 North Promenade, Liberty Station
When: Fri, Nov 27, 5-9pm
An 88-foot pine tree is lit the day after Thanksgiving. There is live music, fire truck rides and an outdoor showing of The Grinch.
Parent tip: The holiday ice rink opens nearby the week before, so you can make an evening of it.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Encinitas Holiday Parade
Dec 5 South Coast Highway 101, D St to J St
When: Sat, Dec 5, starts 5:30pm
A hometown evening parade down the coast highway in old Encinitas. This year's theme is "40 and Still Fabulous."
Parent tip: Bring a blanket or chairs for the curb. Evenings near the beach get chilly fast.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Ocean Beach Holiday Parade
Dec 5 Ocean Beach business district
When: Sat, Dec 5, 5pm
A small, laid-back evening parade through the Ocean Beach business district.
Parent tip: Street parking is scarce that night. Come early and grab dinner nearby before it starts.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
North Pole by the Sea in Del Mar
Dec 6 Del Mar Village (several spots)
When: Sun, Dec 6, 1-5pm; tree lighting at 5pm
A small village holiday afternoon with real snow to play in, kids' crafts, letters to Santa and carolers. It ends with a tree lighting.
Parent tip: It's spread over several blocks. Start at the snow area while kids have the most energy.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Mission Bay Boat Parade of Lights
Dec 12 Mission Bay
When: Sat, Dec 12, starts 5:30pm
Boats covered in lights cruise around Mission Bay after dark. SeaWorld's fireworks that night kick off the evening.
Parent tip: Bring a blanket and warm layers for sitting on the shore. Snacks help with the wait.
Official site
More free events
- December Nights in Balboa Park · festival · Dec 4-5
- Holiday in the Village, La Mesa · festival · Dec 12
Free Christmas events in San Francisco
Parades and tree lightings
- Free Good for toddlers
PIER 39 Christmas Tree Lighting
Nov 23 - Jan 10 PIER 39, Entrance Plaza
When: Tree lighting party Thu Dec 3, evening. Holiday season Nov 23 to Jan 10.
A 60-foot tree at the front of the pier, with live music and a visit from the North Pole on lighting night.
Parent tip: Lighting night is the busiest. With a stroller, a later December evening is easier.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Christmas in the Park, San Jose
Nov 27 - Jan 1 Plaza de Cesar Chavez
When: Daily, noon-10pm, including Dec 24 and 25. Tree lighting on opening night.
A free downtown park full of decorated trees and holiday displays. Photos with Santa are free too.
Parent tip: Santa's hours are posted closer to the season. Check before you drive down.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Civic Center Plaza Tree Lighting
Dec 2 Civic Center Plaza
When: Wed Dec 2, 4-7pm. The tree is lit at 5:30pm. Rain or shine.
A free tree lighting with fake snow, holiday crafts and a book giveaway. Santa stops by too.
Parent tip: The first 500 kids age 12 and under get a free toy. Come right at 4pm if that matters to you.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Sausalito Lighted Boat Parade and Fireworks
Dec 12 Gabrielson Park and the Sausalito waterfront
When: Sat Dec 12. Parade at 6pm, fireworks about 7:15pm.
Boats covered in lights sail past the Sausalito shore. Fireworks over the water end the night.
Parent tip: The park fills up by early afternoon. Fireworks are loud, so bring ear muffs for babies.
Official site
More free events
- SF SPCA Holiday Windows at Macy's · lights · Nov 20 - Dec 31
- Snow Showers and Santa Photos at Santana Row · Santa · Dec 1-29
Free Christmas events in Los Angeles
Parades and tree lightings
- Good for toddlers
Holidays at the Disneyland Resort
Nov 13 - Jan 6 Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure
When: Daily during park hours. The parade and fireworks do not run every day; check the app for times.
Cost: Included with a park ticket. Ticket prices change by date.
Both parks dress up for the season. Look for a Christmas parade, holiday rides and fireworks. Kids can meet Santa in either park until Christmas Eve.
Parent tip: Santa visits run Nov 13 to Dec 24 only. Go on a weekday in November or early December for shorter lines.
Official site - Free
Hollywood Christmas Parade
Nov 29 Hollywood Boulevard parade route
When: Sunday after Thanksgiving, in the evening. 2026 start time not posted yet.
A big evening parade through the streets of Hollywood. Roads close early and crowds are heavy.
Parent tip: Take the Metro B Line to skip road closures. Get there well before the start for a curb spot.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade
Dec 12 Burton Chace Park and the Main Channel
When: Sat Dec 12. Park event 4-8pm, light show 5:45pm, boat parade 6-8pm.
Decorated boats circle the marina after a short light show. The 2026 theme is Hollywood Under the Stars.
Parent tip: Evenings by the water get chilly, so bring layers. Lot parking costs $5-$15.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade
Dec 16-20 Newport Harbor (Marina Park is the main free viewing spot)
When: Wed Dec 16 to Sun Dec 20. Parade starts about 6:30pm each night. Drone shows nightly.
Lit-up boats cruise the harbor five nights in a row. Short drone shows run each night too.
Parent tip: Marina Park has the most room, but only 177 parking spaces. Arrive early.
Official site
More free events
- Holiday Performances and Snowfall at Westfield Century City · festival · Nov 21 - Dec 28
Free Christmas events in Atlanta
Parades and tree lightings
- Good for toddlers
Stone Mountain Christmas
Nov 7 - Jan 3 Stone Mountain Park
When: Weekends and holidays, select dates, Nov 7-Jan 3. Parade at 6pm, tree lighting at 6:30pm.
Cost: Ticketed. See the official site for prices.
The park turns into a holiday village with a nightly parade, a tree lighting and light displays. Kids can visit Santa through Dec 24.
Parent tip: The Flight to the North Pole ride needs its own ticket and has limited space, so book it ahead. The scenic train turns into a sing-along ride at night.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Tree Lighting at The Battery Atlanta
Nov 28 The Battery Atlanta
When: Sat Nov 28, 5-8pm
Live music on the plaza, then Santa helps light the tree. An outdoor holiday movie plays after.
Parent tip: Event-day parking rates apply, so arrive early or share a ride.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Light Up the Season Lantern Parade at Piedmont Park
Nov 22 Greystone and the Meadow, Piedmont Park
When: Sun Nov 22. Lantern-making from 3:30pm, parade at 5pm, lighting right after.
Families make paper lanterns, then walk with a band around Lake Clara Meer. The park's big tree, menorah and kinara light up at the end.
Parent tip: Come for the lantern-making at 3:30pm so kids have a lantern to carry. Park Tavern shows a family movie with hot cocoa afterward.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
City of Alpharetta Tree Lighting
Nov 21 Alpharetta City Center
When: Sat Nov 21, in the evening
Alpharetta's tree lighting has live music, sing-alongs, marshmallow roasting and fake snow flurries. Santa stops by.
Parent tip: Check the city site for the exact start time, and bring a blanket for sitting on the lawn.
Official site - Good for toddlers
Sparkle Sandy Springs
Dec 6 City Springs District
When: Sun Dec 6, evening. Times are posted closer to the date.
Cost: No ticket price listed. See the official site.
A nighttime parade with floats, bands and lights, then a tree and menorah lighting. There's skating, carolers and a holiday market too.
Parent tip: The tree stays lit until New Year's Day, so you can come back on a quieter night.
Official site
More free events
- Merry Mighty Mo and More! at the Fox · Santa · Nov 29
- Santa's Post Office at The Battery Atlanta · Santa · Nov 21 - Dec 24
- Atlanta Christkindl Market (Lawrenceville) · market · Nov 20 - Dec 24
- Atlanta Christkindl Market (Senoia) · market · Nov 27 - Dec 24
Free Christmas events in Houston
Parades and tree lightings
- Free Good for toddlers
H-E-B Thanksgiving Day Parade
Nov 26 Downtown Houston streets (check the city's route map)
When: Thanksgiving morning, Thu Nov 26, from 9am
Houston's big Thanksgiving morning parade rolls through downtown. This is its 77th year.
Parent tip: Get there early for a curb spot. Grandstand seats are worth it if you have a toddler who won't stand for long.
Official site - Good for toddlers
Dickens on The Strand
Dec 4-6 The Strand Historic District
When: Fri Dec 4-Sun Dec 6, with parades each day
Cost: Ticketed. See the official site for prices.
Downtown Galveston dresses up as old-time London for a weekend street festival with costumed characters, music and daily parades. A new play area for kids opens this year.
Parent tip: Scooters, skates and other wheeled toys aren't allowed. Pets and coolers aren't either.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Lighting of the Doves Festival
Nov 21 Town Green Park, 2099 Lake Robbins Dr.
When: Sat Nov 21, 3-8pm. Lighting and fireworks around 7pm.
The Woodlands' kickoff night, with music, crafts, snow play, Santa arriving by sleigh on the Waterway and fireworks.
Parent tip: Park free in the colored lots on Timberloch Place and Grogan's Mill Road. Bring cash or card for the snow wristband.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Sugar Land Christmas Tree Lighting
Nov 20 Sugar Land Town Square, 2711 Plaza Dr.
When: Fri Nov 20, 5-8pm
A small-town style tree lighting with music, hot chocolate, face painting and a spot to write letters to Santa.
Parent tip: Park free at Mercer Stadium and take the shuttle. It runs from 4:30 to 9:30pm.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Deck the Depot Tree Lighting
Dec 5 Tomball Depot Plaza, 201 S. Elm St.
When: Sat Dec 5, 4-8pm
Tomball's tree lighting, with Santa photos, free hot chocolate and treats, music, and fake snow near the end of the night.
Parent tip: Visit Santa early, before the lighting crowd builds.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Christmas Boat Lane Parade
Dec 12 Clear Lake to the Kemah Channel
When: Sat Dec 12. Starts 6pm with fireworks in Nassau Bay. Boats reach Kemah around 7:30pm.
Lit-up boats parade across Clear Lake and through the Kemah Channel. You watch from the shore at public spots along the route.
Parent tip: Pick a spot near the start, like Nassau Bay Lagoon, if you want an earlier night. The boats reach Kemah later in the evening.
Official site
More free events
- Holiday on The Waterway · lights · Nov 21 - Jan 3
- Neighborhood Nights: Holiday Edition at Memorial Park · Santa · Dec 4
- Tomball German Christmas Market · market · Dec 11-13
- Lights in the Heights · lights · Dec 12
- Carols on the Green (Houston Grand Opera) · show · Dec 12
- The Woodlands Winter Makers Market · market · Dec 12
- The Snowflake Market at POST Houston · market · Dec 13
Free Christmas events in San Antonio
Parades and tree lightings
Ford Holiday River Parade and Lighting Ceremony
Nov 27 San Antonio River Walk, starting near the Tobin Center
When: Fri Nov 27, the day after Thanksgiving. Starts at 6pm.
Cost: Free viewing area on a first-come basis. Reserved seats need a ticket. See the official site for prices.
Lit-up floats glide down the river on barges, and the River Walk lights switch on for the season. It's the city's big holiday kickoff.
Parent tip: Strollers aren't allowed on the River Walk that night. The free area on the east bank, between Pecan Street and Richmond Avenue, fills hours early, so bring chairs.
Official site- Free Good for toddlers
Opening Night Tree Lighting at The Rock at La Cantera
Nov 21 Frost Plaza, The Rock at La Cantera, 1 Spurs Way
When: Sat Nov 21, 7-10pm
The plaza lights its tree and opens its outdoor rink for the season. There's live music, a kids' craft corner and s'mores.
Parent tip: Kids can write letters to Santa at the craft corner. Map it as "The Rock at La Cantera", not the street address.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Christmas in the Plaza at the Alamo
Nov 28 Alamo Plaza and Plaza de Valero
When: Sat Nov 28, 6-8pm
See the Alamo's Christmas tree and holiday lights on the plaza after dark. It's a short, free stop downtown.
Parent tip: The church and grounds are closed during this event. Pair it with a walk along the River Walk lights a few blocks away.
Official site - Good for toddlers
Pearl Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony
Nov 27 Pearl
When: Fri Nov 27. Check the Pearl site for the time.
Cost: No ticket price listed
Pearl lights its tree to open the season, with carolers, hot chocolate and river barge rides.
Parent tip: It's the same night as the downtown river parade, so plan for one or the other.
Official site
More free events
- Holiday Lights on the River Walk · lights · Nov 27 - Dec 31
- Christmas at the Alamo · festival · Dec 5
- Cowboy Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Alamo · Santa · Dec 12
- River Walk December and Holiday Artisan Shows · market · Dec 11-20
- Holiday Art Market at the Tobin Center · market · Nov 28
Free Christmas events in Gatlinburg
Parades and tree lightings
- Free Good for toddlers
Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade
Dec 4 The Parkway, downtown Gatlinburg
When: Fri Dec 4, 2026, 7:30-9pm
Gatlinburg's big nighttime Christmas parade rolls down the Parkway with lit-up floats. It is free to watch.
Parent tip: Get there early and bring blankets or camp chairs. Downtown fills up well before 7:30pm.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Winterfest Kickoff and Tree Lighting at The Island
Nov 21 The Island, 131 The Island Dr.
When: Sat Nov 21, 2026. Santa from 5pm, free concert at 7pm, tree lighting at 8pm.
The Island lights its 40-foot walk-through Christmas tree on opening night of its light season. Santa is there for photos earlier in the evening.
Parent tip: With toddlers, go early for Santa at 5pm. The tree lighting is at 8pm, so it's a late night for little ones.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Sevierville Christmas Parade
Dec 5 Historic downtown Sevierville
When: Sat Dec 5, 2026, 11am
A small-town Christmas parade through downtown Sevierville. It runs in the late morning, which suits nap schedules.
Parent tip: Court Avenue is a good spot to watch from.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Bryson City Christmas Tree Lighting
Nov 28 Swain County Visitor Center, 2 Everett St.
When: Sat Nov 28, 2026, 5-7pm. Tree lighting at 6pm.
A small-town tree lighting with a live nativity, carolers in old-style costumes, and free cocoa and cookies. Kids can write and mail letters to Santa.
Parent tip: The Polar Express also leaves from Bryson City, so the two fit well into one trip that weekend.
Official site
More free events
- Winterfest Wonders of Light Walking Trail · lights · Nov 6 - Jan 31
- Gatlinburg Winter Magic Lights · lights · Nov 5 - Feb 15
- Winterfest at The Island · lights · Nov 21 - Jan 31
- Winterfest Driving Tour of Lights · lights · Nov 6 - Jan 31
- Santa at The Island · Santa · Nov 21 - Dec 19
- Gatlinburg Winter Festival and Chili Cook-off · festival · Nov 12
- Gatlinburg Festival of Trees · festival · Nov 25-29
- Noon Year's Eve at The Island · festival · Dec 31
- Gatlinburg New Year's Eve Celebration and Ball Drop · festival · Dec 31
Free Christmas events in Philadelphia
Parades and tree lightings
- Good for toddlers
City of Philadelphia Tree Lighting Celebration
Dec 3 Philadelphia City Hall
When: Thu Dec 3, 6-8pm. The tree stays lit through Jan 2, 2027.
Cost: No ticket price listed
The city's official tree-lighting night at City Hall, presented by 6abc. The tree stays lit into the new year.
Parent tip: Christmas Village is right next door, so plan dinner at the market stalls.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Grand Illumination Celebration at Peddler's Village
Nov 20 Peddler's Village, Route 202 and Street Road
When: Fri Nov 20, 4:30-10pm. Santa lights the village at 6:15pm.
Santa and Mrs. Claus switch on the village's holiday lights. Local music and dance groups perform after.
Parent tip: Get there by 5:30pm for a good spot and easier parking.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Holly Jolly Weekend at Peddler's Village
Dec 5-6 Peddler's Village
When: Sat-Sun Dec 5-6, 11am-6pm. Santa parades at noon both days. Lights on at 4:30pm.
A free weekend with Santa parades through the village, live music and family activities.
Parent tip: Stay until 4:30pm to see the lights come on, then warm up at the gingerbread display.
Official site - Good for toddlers
West Chester Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting
Dec 4 Downtown West Chester
When: Fri Dec 4. Tree lighting 6:30pm, parade 7pm.
Cost: No ticket price listed
West Chester lights its tree, then a nighttime Christmas parade moves through downtown.
Parent tip: Free photos with Santa and a holiday concert follow on Sat Dec 12, 2-4pm.
Official site - Good for toddlers
Manayunk Tree-Lighting Ceremony
Nov 19 Canal View Park, 4418 Main St.
When: Thu Nov 19, 5:30pm.
Cost: No ticket price listed
Manayunk lights its tree to start the season. Shops along Main Street decorate their windows for the holidays.
Parent tip: The decorated shop windows stay up all season, so a Main Street stroll works on other evenings too.
Official site
More free events
- Christmas Village in Philadelphia · market · Nov 21 - Dec 27
- Holidays in Franklin Square and the Electrical Spectacle Light Show · lights · Nov 19 - Jan 3
- Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest · skating · Nov 27 - Feb 28
- Gingerbread Competition and Display at Peddler's Village · festival · Nov 20 - Jan 9
- Christmas Day Crossing Reenactment · festival · Dec 25
- Grand Illumination at American Heritage Credit Union · lights · Nov 28 - Jan 1
Free Christmas events in Pittsburgh
Parades and tree lightings
- Good for toddlers
Highmark Light Up Night and City Tree Lighting
Nov 21 City-County Building, Grant St., and around Downtown
When: Sat Nov 21, 4-7:30pm at the City-County Building. Tree lighting, fireworks and light show at 5pm. PPG Place lights its tree at 6pm.
Cost: No ticket price listed
Downtown's kickoff night for the season. The city lights its tree with fireworks and a light show. The gingerbread house display opens in the City-County Building lobby.
Parent tip: Duck into the City-County Building lobby to see the gingerbread houses and warm up. Fireworks are loud, so pack ear protection for babies.
Official site
More free events
- Nationality Rooms Holiday Open House · festival · Dec 6
Free Christmas events in Las Vegas
Parades and tree lightings
- Free Good for toddlers
Henderson WinterFest Tree Lighting and Drone Show
Dec 3 Water Street Plaza
When: Thu Dec 3, 5-7:30pm
Henderson lights its city tree with live music, food vendors and a drone show in the sky. It starts the city's month of holiday events.
Parent tip: Free parking is in the Water Street garage at 235 S. Water St. and the City Hall garage. There's no shuttle.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Henderson Electric Light Parade
Dec 4 Water Street, between Basic Road and Victory Road
When: Fri Dec 4, 6:30-8:30pm
Lit-up floats, marching bands and cheer teams roll down Water Street after dark. The parade lasts about 90 minutes.
Parent tip: The city suggests taking a photo of your child when you arrive, in case you get separated. Pets, umbrellas and scooters aren't allowed.
Official site
More free events
- Bellagio Conservatory Holiday Display · lights · Nov 14 - Jan 2
Free Christmas events in Orlando
Parades and tree lightings
Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party
Nov 8 - Dec 22 Magic Kingdom Park
When: 25 select nights, Nov 8-Dec 22, 7pm-midnight. Party guests can enter from 4pm.
Cost: $189-229 per ticket plus tax, by night. Kids 3-9 save $10.
Magic Kingdom's after-hours Christmas party. Expect a holiday parade, fireworks, a castle stage show and 'snow' on Main Street. Cookies and holiday drinks are included.
Parent tip: Come at 4pm so kids can ride while they're fresh. Then catch the first parade before little ones fade.
Official site- Good for toddlers
Holidays at Universal Orlando (Grinchmas and the Holiday Parade)
Nov 14 - Jan 3 Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure and Epic Universe
When: Nov 14-Jan 3. Check the park schedule for show and parade times.
Cost: Included with a theme park ticket or pass. Blockout dates apply.
Universal decorates three parks. Top picks are the Grinchmas show in Seuss Landing and a holiday parade featuring Macy's. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter dresses up for Christmas too.
Parent tip: Book the Grinch and Friends Character Breakfast early. It sells out fast.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Winter Park Christmas Parade
Dec 5 Park Avenue, from Cole Avenue south to Pennsylvania Avenue
When: Sat Dec 5, 9-10:30am
A small-town morning parade with more than 80 groups, from marching bands to scout troops. Santa rides at the end.
Parent tip: A morning parade fits nap schedules better than the evening ones.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Light Up Winter Garden
Dec 4 Winter Garden City Hall, 300 W. Plant St.
When: Fri Dec 4, 6-9pm. Tree lighting at 6:15pm.
Winter Garden lights its tree downtown, and Santa stops by. It kicks off a month of free events, including a nightly light show at City Hall on select dates.
Parent tip: The city's Christmas parade is that weekend, but its page lists both Dec 5 and Dec 6. Check before you go.
Official site
More free events
- Now Snowing in Celebration · festival · Nov 28 - Dec 31
- Christmas in the Park (Winter Park) · lights · Dec 3
- Frontyard Holiday Festival at Dr. Phillips Center · festival · Nov 27 - Dec 31
- Holiday Nights Celebration at Sunset Walk · festival · Nov 19 - Dec 25
- Jingle Eve in Ivanhoe Village · festival · Nov 21
Free Christmas events in Miami
Parades and tree lightings
- Free Good for toddlers
Junior Orange Bowl Miracle on the Mile Holiday Parade
Dec 6 Miracle Mile
When: Sun Dec 6. Check the official site for the start time.
Coral Gables' yearly holiday parade, now in its 78th year. Marching bands and floats roll down Miracle Mile, and Santa arrives at the end.
Parent tip: Santa comes last, so stay until the end. Bring something to sit on while you wait.
Official site - Good for toddlers
Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade
Dec 12 Intracoastal Waterway; ticketed viewing at Las Olas Intracoastal Promenade Park
When: Sat Dec 12. Preshow 5:30pm, parade and fireworks at 6pm.
Cost: Viewing area: $40 adults, $30 ages 12 and under, 3 and under free
Lit-up boats parade along Fort Lauderdale's waterways, with fireworks. This year's theme celebrates America's 250th birthday.
Parent tip: The boats reach the viewing area around 6:30pm. Chairs are provided there, and bottles, coolers and pets aren't allowed.
Official site
Free Christmas events in New Orleans
Parades and tree lightings
- Good for toddlers
Manning Family Children's Holiday Parade
Dec 5 Starts at the French Market and rolls through the French Quarter and downtown
When: Sat Dec 5. Check the official site for the start time.
Cost: No ticket price listed. See the official site.
A holiday parade for kids, run with Children's Hospital New Orleans. It starts at the French Market and heads downtown.
Parent tip: Check the route on the official site before you go. A spot near the French Market start means a shorter wait.
Official site
More free events
- Caroling in Jackson Square · festival · Dec 20
Free Christmas events in Charlotte
Parades and tree lightings
- Free Good for toddlers
Novant Health Thanksgiving Eve Parade
Nov 25 Tryon Street, Uptown Charlotte (9th Street to Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.)
When: Wed Nov 25 (the night before Thanksgiving). Steps off at 5:30pm, rain or shine.
Charlotte's big holiday parade rolls up Tryon Street on Thanksgiving Eve. This is its 80th year, and it airs live on local TV.
Parent tip: Come early to park and grab a curb spot before 5:30pm. The light rail stops at 7th Street, CTC/Arena and 3rd St./Convention Center are on the route.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Kannapolis Tree Lighting and Celebration of Lights
Nov 13-15 Village Park, 401 Laureate Way
When: Tree lighting and fireworks Fri Nov 13, 6:30-8:30pm. Celebration of Lights and Winterland Express Sat-Sun Nov 14-15, 5:30-7:30pm.
Kannapolis starts its season with a tree lighting and fireworks, then a weekend of park lights and rides on the little Winterland Express train.
Parent tip: Pack layers, since it's all outside after dark. The Saturday and Sunday light nights end at 7:30pm, which suits early bedtimes.
Official site - Good for toddlers
McAdenville Tree Lighting Ceremony
Dec 1 Dynamo 31, 102 Main St.
When: Tue Dec 1, 5:30pm
Cost: See the official site
The opening night of Christmas Town U.S.A. A local child flips the switch after a countdown, and Santa comes too.
Parent tip: The town suggests arriving before 5pm, when parking is easiest.
Official site - Good for toddlers
McAdenville Yule Log Parade
Dec 10 Starts at 100 Main St.; ends at the Memorial Yule Log Fireplace in Legacy Park
When: Thu Dec 10. Singing starts at 5:30pm.
Cost: See the official site
People of all ages walk behind a high school band and pull a big Yule log on an old sled through downtown. The log ends up in the town fireplace.
Parent tip: Families can join the walk, not just watch. Line up early at 100 Main Street near the log.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Concord Christmas Parade
Nov 21 Downtown Concord: Church Street N. to Union Street (route over 2 miles)
When: Sat Nov 21, 2:30pm
Concord's 98th Christmas parade, with bands, floats and walking groups. The city provides one Santa, who rides in the parade.
Parent tip: Floats don't throw candy, so there's no scramble at the curb. An afternoon start works well for nap schedules.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Huntersville Town Tree Lighting
Dec 4 Veterans Park, Downtown Huntersville
When: Fri Dec 4, 6-8pm. The tree is lit at 6:30pm.
The town lights its tree with live music, rides, treats and Santa's Workshop. It wraps up by 8pm.
Parent tip: Come back the next afternoon for Holidays in Huntersville at the same park.
Official site
More free events
- Christmas at the Library at the Billy Graham Library · festival · Dec 1-23
- Holidays in Huntersville · festival · Dec 5
Free Christmas events in Kansas City
More free events
- Santa at Crown Center's Destination North Pole · Santa · Nov 27 - Dec 24
- Christmas in the Park at Longview Lake · lights · Nov 25 - Dec 31
- TubaChristmas at the Kauffman Center · show · Dec 4-14
Free Christmas events in Dallas
Parades and tree lightings
- Free Good for toddlers
Dallas Holiday Parade
Dec 5 Downtown Dallas streets (starts at Commerce and Houston streets)
When: Saturday morning, Dec 5. Starts around 8:30-9am and lasts about two hours.
Dallas's big holiday parade rolls through downtown on the first Saturday in December.
Parent tip: Bring as little as you can, plus chairs or a blanket if you don't buy seats. Bleacher ticket holders can store strollers under the stands.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
GM Financial Parade of Lights
Nov 22 Downtown Fort Worth streets
When: Sunday evening, Nov 22, at 6pm
Fort Worth's lit-up holiday parade kicks off the season downtown on the Sunday before Thanksgiving.
Parent tip: Streets start closing at 3pm. TEXRail park-and-ride lots are mostly free and skip the downtown traffic.
Official site - Good for toddlers
Tree Lighting Celebration at Klyde Warren Park
Dec 5 Klyde Warren Park, 2012 Woodall Rodgers Fwy.
When: Saturday, Dec 5, 4-7pm
Cost: Santa photos are free. See the official site for other costs.
The park's tree lighting, with free Santa photos, story time with Mrs. Claus, face painting, dancers, stilt walkers, and Frosty and Rudolph.
Parent tip: Come early for the Santa line, then stay for the lighting at the end.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Prosper Christmas Festival
Dec 5 Prosper Town Hall, 250 W. First St.
When: Saturday, Dec 5, 3-7pm. Tree lighting at 7pm.
A free small-town Christmas party with bouncy houses, face painting, balloon artists and free family photos with Santa.
Parent tip: Santa is there 3-6pm, so see him before the 7pm tree lighting.
Official site
More free events
- Christmas in the Square · lights · Nov 20 - Jan 4
Free Christmas events in Austin
Parades and tree lightings
- Good for toddlers
Zilker Holiday Tree
Nov 29 - Jan 1 Zilker Park, south side
When: Lighting Sunday, Nov 29, at 6pm (music from 5:15pm). Then nightly 6-10pm.
Cost: See the official site. Lighting-night parking is free, first come, first served.
A 155-foot tree made of strings of lights, first lit in 1967. Kids like to stand in the middle and spin while looking up.
Parent tip: During the Trail of Lights (Dec 10-23) you enter from the Mopac side and must prepay parking. Visit before Dec 10 for easier parking.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Holiday Sing-Along & Stroll
Dec 5 Congress Ave. between 9th and 11th streets
When: Saturday, Dec 5, 5-8pm
Downtown's tree lighting and carol sing-along on Congress Avenue, with food trucks, pop-up shops, and Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Parent tip: Grab a free songbook so kids can sing along.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Bastrop River of Lights
Nov 27 - Jan 4 Fisherman's Park and the June Hill Pape Riverwalk
When: Nightly from dusk to about 10pm. Tree lighting opens the trail.
A free half-mile light walk along the Colorado River in historic Bastrop, with thousands of lit displays.
Parent tip: Start at the Fisherman's Park entrance with a stroller. The other entrances have stairs.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Lost Pines Christmas Parade
Dec 12 Historic Downtown Bastrop
When: Saturday, Dec 12, at 6pm
An evening parade with floats, bands and classic cars. Santa rides at the end on a Bastrop fire truck.
Parent tip: Bring lawn chairs and come early for a good spot. Walk to the River of Lights after.
Official site
More free events
- Trail of Lights at EmilyAnn Theatre & Gardens · lights · Nov 28 - Dec 26
Free Christmas events in Phoenix
Parades and tree lightings
- Good for toddlers
Fantasy of Lights Street Parade + Tree Lighting
Nov 28 Mill Avenue and CenterPoint Plaza
When: Sat Nov 28. Festivities 4-8pm, parade at 6pm.
Cost: See the official site.
Lit-up floats roll down Mill Avenue, and downtown Tempe lights its holiday tree the same night.
Parent tip: The parade starts at 6pm, so little ones can see it and still get home at a decent hour.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade
Dec 12 Tempe Beach Park
When: Sat Dec 12, 4-9pm
Boats covered in lights cruise across Tempe Town Lake. The night ends with fireworks.
Parent tip: There are Santa photo spots in the park. Fireworks are loud, so pack ear covers for babies and toddlers.
Official site - Good for toddlers
APS Electric Light Parade
Dec 5 Central Ave. and Montebello Ave. to 7th St. and Indian School Rd.
When: Sat Dec 5, starts at 7pm. Roads close 5-11pm.
Cost: See the official site.
Phoenix's big nighttime parade of lit-up floats, now in its 39th year. It runs rain or shine.
Parent tip: Crowds show up hours early, so bring chairs and blankets. Coolers are OK, but no glass or alcohol. Light rail helps you skip the traffic.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Desert Ridge Marketplace Holiday Tree Lighting
Nov 23 The District at Desert Ridge Marketplace, 21001 N. Tatum Blvd.
When: Mon Nov 23, 6-9pm. Tree lighting at 7:15pm.
Santa and Mrs. Claus help light the shopping center's tree. Free Santa photos follow from 7:30 to 9pm.
Parent tip: Get in the Santa photo line right after the lighting. It's a free way to get the yearly Santa picture.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Scottsdale Quarter Tree Lighting
Nov 28 The Quad at Scottsdale Quarter, 15191 N. Scottsdale Rd.
When: Sat Nov 28, 5:30-7:30pm. Tree lighting at 7pm.
A short evening with live music, ballet and toy soldier acts, free kids' crafts and a fake snowfall. The Grinch stops by too.
Parent tip: It wraps up by 7:30pm, which works well for little kids.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Chandler Tumbleweed Tree Lighting Ceremony
Dec 5 Downtown Chandler, 3 S. Arizona Ave.
When: Sat Dec 5, 4:30-9pm
Chandler lights its Tumbleweed Tree with music, a light display and a toy drive. The Parade of Lights rolls the same night.
Parent tip: The city asks people to carpool and come early, since parking fills up. Streets close from about 2 to 10pm.
Official site - Good for toddlers
Chandler Parade of Lights
Dec 5 Arizona Ave., from Frye Rd. north to Erie St.
When: Sat Dec 5, 6:45-8pm
Cost: See the official site.
A short lit-up parade, about three-quarters of a mile long, through downtown Chandler.
Parent tip: Pair it with the tree lighting and Santa's House in the park next door.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Apache Junction Holiday Event & Light Parade
Dec 5 Flatiron Park and Apache Trail (between Phelps and Gold Dr.)
When: Sat Dec 5. Event 3-6:30pm, tree lighting about 6:30pm, parade at 7pm.
An afternoon of games, music, inflatables and Santa photos, then a tree lighting and a lit-up parade.
Parent tip: Come for the afternoon play time if bedtime is early. Parking is in the dirt lots east of the park.
Official site - Good for toddlers
QC Hometown Christmas Parade
Dec 5 Queen Creek Town Center, 21802 S. Ellsworth Rd.
When: Sat Dec 5 at 10am
Cost: See the official site.
A small-town morning Christmas parade. The town tree lighting is the night before, Fri Dec 4, 6-8pm.
Parent tip: A morning parade is a good choice for babies and toddlers who nap after lunch.
Official site - Good for toddlers
Hometown Christmas Parade (Glendale)
Dec 12 Glendale Ave., from 51st Ave. west to 58th Ave.
When: Sat Dec 12 at 11am
Cost: See the official site.
A daytime Christmas parade with floats and marching bands through downtown Glendale.
Parent tip: Glendale Glitters' lights are a few blocks away if you want to come back after dark.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Christmas in the Park (Litchfield Park)
Dec 12 Litchfield Square Park, 279 N. La Loma Ave.
When: Sat Dec 12. Holiday market 9am-3pm, parade at 10am.
A small-town festival with a hometown parade, 60-plus market vendors, stage acts and kids' activities.
Parent tip: Browse the market from 9am, then grab a curb spot before the 10am parade.
Official site
More free events
- Santa's House in Chandler · Santa · Dec 5-19
Free Christmas events in St. Louis
Parades and tree lightings
- Good for toddlers
Ameren Thanks-For-Giving Parade
Nov 21 Downtown St. Louis (see the route map on the official site)
When: Sat Nov 21, starts at 2pm
Cost: See the official site.
St. Louis's big holiday parade, now in its 42nd year, with floats, bands and Santa. It's held the Saturday before Thanksgiving, not on Thanksgiving Day.
Parent tip: Stay downtown afterward for the Festival of Lights tree lighting and fireworks at Kiener Plaza.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Ameren Missouri Festival of Lights
Nov 21 Kiener Plaza, 500 Chestnut St.
When: Sat Nov 21. Ceremony 5:30pm, tree lighting 5:45pm, drone show 6:30pm, fireworks 7pm.
Winterfest's opening night, with a tree lighting, a drone show and fireworks over the downtown rink.
Parent tip: Everything is done by about 7:15pm. Bring ear covers for little ones during the fireworks.
Official site - Good for toddlers
Maplewood Christmas Tree Walk
Dec 4 CNB Bank Park, 7300 Manchester Rd.
When: Fri Dec 4, 6-9pm. Tree lighting and Santa's arrival at 6pm.
Cost: See the official site. Carriage ride tickets are sold on site.
A small-town style evening with caroling, a tree lighting, Santa and horse-drawn carriage rides.
Parent tip: Santa sees kids in the CNB Bank lobby from 6:15 to 8pm, so you can warm up while you wait.
Official site
More free events
- Winterfest at Kiener Plaza · skating · Nov 21 - Jan 3
- Saint Charles Christmas Traditions · festival · Nov 27 - Dec 24
Free Christmas events in Tampa
Parades and tree lightings
- Free Good for toddlers
Holiday Lighted Boat Parade on the Tampa Riverwalk
Dec 19 Tampa Riverwalk
When: Sat Dec 19, boats set off at 6:15pm.
Boats covered in holiday lights cruise past downtown on the water. It's Tampa's biggest lighted boat parade.
Parent tip: The parade route starts or ends near Sparkman Wharf, so the Riverwalk around there is a good place to watch.
Official site - Good for toddlers
Clearwater Yacht Club Holiday Lighted Boat Parade
Dec 12 Clearwater Harbor (Mandalay Channel to Clearwater Beach Marina)
When: Sat Dec 12, starts at 6pm.
Cost: The club lists no ticket for watching from shore. See the official site.
Lit-up boats loop around Island Estates, pass Coachman Park and finish at Clearwater Beach Marina. This is the 52nd year.
Parent tip: The boats are judged at Clearwater Beach Marina, near the end of the route. Coachman Park on the mainland is also on the route.
Official site
More free events
- Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park · skating · Nov 20 - Jan 3
- Holiday Lights in the Gardens at Florida Botanical Gardens · lights · Nov 27 - Jan 3
- Season Spectacular at Water Street Tampa · festival · Nov 12
- The Holiday Promenade at Water Street Tampa · market · Dec 3
Free Christmas events in Cincinnati
Parades and tree lightings
- Free Good for toddlers
Duke Energy's Light Up the Square
Nov 27 Fountain Square, 520 Vine St., along 5th Street to Elm Street Plaza
When: Fri Nov 27 (the day after Thanksgiving), 6-10pm.
Downtown's big tree lighting kicks off the season with live performances and fireworks. The fun stretches down 5th Street to the ice rink.
Parent tip: The fireworks are loud. Bring ear covers for babies, or watch from the edge of the crowd.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Lebanon Horse-Drawn Carriage Parade and Christmas Festival
Dec 5 Downtown Lebanon
When: Sat Dec 5. Daylight parade at 1pm, candlelight parade at 7pm. Festival and market 10am-8pm.
Horse-drawn carriages roll through the old downtown twice in one day, once in daylight and once by candlelight. A Christmas market runs all day.
Parent tip: The 1pm daylight parade is easier with little kids. Use the shuttle, since downtown parking fills up.
Official site
More free events
- Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt · market · Nov 20 - Dec 28
Christmas parades near me: how to enjoy them with kids
A Christmas parade is one of the easiest outings with kids, as long as they can see. Get there early enough to claim the front row at the curb. Small kids see nothing from the back.
- Get there early for a front-row spot. A small step stool helps kids see over the crowd.
- Bring a blanket or seat pad, hand warmers and something warm to drink. The cold comes up from the curb.
- Find the nearest bathroom as soon as you arrive.
- Agree on a candy rule before it starts: nobody runs into the street.
- Santa usually rides on the last float, so stay to the end if that's what your kids came for.
- Plan your way out. Roads close, and traffic is slow when it ends.
Famous Christmas tree lightings
A big tree lighting is a thrill to see, but ceremony night is often packed, cold and late for little kids. For the most famous trees, visit on another evening instead, when you can walk right up.
- Free Good for toddlers
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
Dec 2 - Jan 2 Rockefeller Plaza · New York
When: Lighting ceremony Wed, Dec 2, 7-10pm. Lit daily after that into January. Daily viewing hours not posted yet.
The famous tree arrives in early November and is lit on Dec 2. After that you can see it any day for free, with the rink below it.
Parent tip: Skip ceremony night with little kids. A weekday morning visit is usually much calmer.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
National Christmas Tree and Pathway of Peace
Dec 3 - Jan 1 The Ellipse, President's Park · Washington, DC
When: Lighting ceremony Thu, Dec 3. Tree site open most evenings through Jan 1.
The big national tree near the White House, ringed by smaller trees for every state and territory. You can visit free after the lighting night.
Parent tip: Skip the crowded lighting night with little kids and go on a weeknight after. Check the news before you go: federal sites can close if the government shuts down.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
City of Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting
Nov 20 Millennium Park, near Michigan Ave and Washington St · Chicago
When: Fri Nov 20, in the evening. The tree stays up through the holidays.
The city lights its official Christmas tree in Millennium Park with a free show. The tree then stays lit for the season.
Parent tip: The Christkindlmarket opens the same day a few blocks west at Daley Plaza, so you can do both.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Boston Common Tree Lighting
Dec 3 Boston Common, by the Visitor Information Center (139 Tremont St) · Boston
When: Thu, Dec 3, 6-8pm
The city lights a big tree sent each year by Nova Scotia as a thank-you for help after a 1917 disaster. Right after, the trees on the Commonwealth Avenue Mall light up too.
Parent tip: Come early for a spot near the tree. With small kids, stand near the edge of the crowd for an easy exit.
Official site - Good for toddlers
City of Philadelphia Tree Lighting Celebration
Dec 3 Philadelphia City Hall · Philadelphia
When: Thu Dec 3, 6-8pm. The tree stays lit through Jan 2, 2027.
Cost: No ticket price listed
The city's official tree-lighting night at City Hall, presented by 6abc. The tree stays lit into the new year.
Parent tip: Christmas Village is right next door, so plan dinner at the market stalls.
Official site - Good for toddlers
Highmark Light Up Night and City Tree Lighting
Nov 21 City-County Building, Grant St., and around Downtown · Pittsburgh
When: Sat Nov 21, 4-7:30pm at the City-County Building. Tree lighting, fireworks and light show at 5pm. PPG Place lights its tree at 6pm.
Cost: No ticket price listed
Downtown's kickoff night for the season. The city lights its tree with fireworks and a light show. The gingerbread house display opens in the City-County Building lobby.
Parent tip: Duck into the City-County Building lobby to see the gingerbread houses and warm up. Fireworks are loud, so pack ear protection for babies.
Official site - Good for toddlers
McAdenville Tree Lighting Ceremony
Dec 1 Dynamo 31, 102 Main St. · Charlotte
When: Tue Dec 1, 5:30pm
Cost: See the official site
The opening night of Christmas Town U.S.A. A local child flips the switch after a countdown, and Santa comes too.
Parent tip: The town suggests arriving before 5pm, when parking is easiest.
Official site - Good for toddlers
Zilker Holiday Tree
Nov 29 - Jan 1 Zilker Park, south side · Austin
When: Lighting Sunday, Nov 29, at 6pm (music from 5:15pm). Then nightly 6-10pm.
Cost: See the official site. Lighting-night parking is free, first come, first served.
A 155-foot tree made of strings of lights, first lit in 1967. Kids like to stand in the middle and spin while looking up.
Parent tip: During the Trail of Lights (Dec 10-23) you enter from the Mopac side and must prepay parking. Visit before Dec 10 for easier parking.
Official site
Lighted boat parades
A lighted boat parade is a parade on the water. Boats covered in lights sail past the shore after dark, and some nights end with fireworks. Watching from the shore is usually free.
Get there in daylight to claim a spot by the water. It gets cold by the water after dark, so bring hats and blankets. Fireworks are loud, so pack ear muffs for babies.
- Free Good for toddlers
Holiday Boat Parade at The Wharf
Dec 5 District Pier, The Wharf · Washington, DC
When: Sat, Dec 5, about 5-8pm; fireworks around 8pm
More than 60 lit-up boats sail along the Washington Channel. There are Santa photos, crafts and fireworks to finish.
Parent tip: Crowds are big and garages fill fast. Take the Metro to Waterfront; it's a five-minute walk.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights
Dec 5 Old Town Alexandria Waterfront and Waterfront Park · Washington, DC
When: Sat, Dec 5. Waterfront activities 2-8pm; boats from 5:30pm.
Dozens of boats covered in lights cruise about a mile of the Potomac shoreline. Waterfront Park has food and activities in the afternoon.
Parent tip: Come in daylight to claim a spot by the water. It gets cold by the river after dark, so pack hats and blankets.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Deck the Hulls Christmas Boat Parade
Dec 5 Old Hickory Lake, from Drakes Creek past Mallard Park to Sanders Ferry Park · Nashville
When: Sat Dec 5, 5:30-8pm
Boats covered in Christmas lights cruise along Old Hickory Lake after dark. You watch from the shore.
Parent tip: It gets cold by the water at night. Bring blankets and a thermos, and pick a spot near Mallard Park, where the judges sit.
Official site - Good for toddlers
Christmas Ship Festival
Nov 27 - Dec 23 Departs Pier 55 and other docks around Seattle · Seattle
When: Evening sailings on many nights, plus some 2pm sailings. Check the schedule for each dock and shore stop.
Cost: Cruise tickets are paid (see Argosy for prices). Watching from shore is free.
A lit-up boat brings a live choir and Santa to waterfront parks. Ride along, or watch the 20-minute show free from shore.
Parent tip: With little kids, try a 2pm sailing. Those trips include cookies with Santa.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
San Diego Bay Parade of Lights
Dec 13-20 San Diego Bay, from Shelter Island · San Diego
When: Sun, Dec 13 and Sun, Dec 20, starts 5:30pm
Dozens of boats covered in lights sail along the bay. You can watch from several spots on the shore.
Parent tip: Top viewing spots fill up, so arrive early. Bring warm layers for the wait by the water.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Mission Bay Boat Parade of Lights
Dec 12 Mission Bay · San Diego
When: Sat, Dec 12, starts 5:30pm
Boats covered in lights cruise around Mission Bay after dark. SeaWorld's fireworks that night kick off the evening.
Parent tip: Bring a blanket and warm layers for sitting on the shore. Snacks help with the wait.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Sausalito Lighted Boat Parade and Fireworks
Dec 12 Gabrielson Park and the Sausalito waterfront · San Francisco
When: Sat Dec 12. Parade at 6pm, fireworks about 7:15pm.
Boats covered in lights sail past the Sausalito shore. Fireworks over the water end the night.
Parent tip: The park fills up by early afternoon. Fireworks are loud, so bring ear muffs for babies.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade
Dec 12 Burton Chace Park and the Main Channel · Los Angeles
When: Sat Dec 12. Park event 4-8pm, light show 5:45pm, boat parade 6-8pm.
Decorated boats circle the marina after a short light show. The 2026 theme is Hollywood Under the Stars.
Parent tip: Evenings by the water get chilly, so bring layers. Lot parking costs $5-$15.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade
Dec 16-20 Newport Harbor (Marina Park is the main free viewing spot) · Los Angeles
When: Wed Dec 16 to Sun Dec 20. Parade starts about 6:30pm each night. Drone shows nightly.
Lit-up boats cruise the harbor five nights in a row. Short drone shows run each night too.
Parent tip: Marina Park has the most room, but only 177 parking spaces. Arrive early.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Christmas Boat Lane Parade
Dec 12 Clear Lake to the Kemah Channel · Houston
When: Sat Dec 12. Starts 6pm with fireworks in Nassau Bay. Boats reach Kemah around 7:30pm.
Lit-up boats parade across Clear Lake and through the Kemah Channel. You watch from the shore at public spots along the route.
Parent tip: Pick a spot near the start, like Nassau Bay Lagoon, if you want an earlier night. The boats reach Kemah later in the evening.
Official site Ford Holiday River Parade and Lighting Ceremony
Nov 27 San Antonio River Walk, starting near the Tobin Center · San Antonio
When: Fri Nov 27, the day after Thanksgiving. Starts at 6pm.
Cost: Free viewing area on a first-come basis. Reserved seats need a ticket. See the official site for prices.
Lit-up floats glide down the river on barges, and the River Walk lights switch on for the season. It's the city's big holiday kickoff.
Parent tip: Strollers aren't allowed on the River Walk that night. The free area on the east bank, between Pecan Street and Richmond Avenue, fills hours early, so bring chairs.
Official site- Free Good for toddlers
Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade
Dec 12 Tempe Beach Park · Phoenix
When: Sat Dec 12, 4-9pm
Boats covered in lights cruise across Tempe Town Lake. The night ends with fireworks.
Parent tip: There are Santa photo spots in the park. Fireworks are loud, so pack ear covers for babies and toddlers.
Official site - Free Good for toddlers
Holiday Lighted Boat Parade on the Tampa Riverwalk
Dec 19 Tampa Riverwalk · Tampa
When: Sat Dec 19, boats set off at 6:15pm.
Boats covered in holiday lights cruise past downtown on the water. It's Tampa's biggest lighted boat parade.
Parent tip: The parade route starts or ends near Sparkman Wharf, so the Riverwalk around there is a good place to watch.
Official site - Good for toddlers
Clearwater Yacht Club Holiday Lighted Boat Parade
Dec 12 Clearwater Harbor (Mandalay Channel to Clearwater Beach Marina) · Tampa
When: Sat Dec 12, starts at 6pm.
Cost: The club lists no ticket for watching from shore. See the official site.
Lit-up boats loop around Island Estates, pass Coachman Park and finish at Clearwater Beach Marina. This is the 52nd year.
Parent tip: The boats are judged at Clearwater Beach Marina, near the end of the route. Coachman Park on the mainland is also on the route.
Official site - Good for toddlers
Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade
Dec 12 Intracoastal Waterway; ticketed viewing at Las Olas Intracoastal Promenade Park · Miami
When: Sat Dec 12. Preshow 5:30pm, parade and fireworks at 6pm.
Cost: Viewing area: $40 adults, $30 ages 12 and under, 3 and under free
Lit-up boats parade along Fort Lauderdale's waterways, with fireworks. This year's theme celebrates America's 250th birthday.
Parent tip: The boats reach the viewing area around 6:30pm. Chairs are provided there, and bottles, coolers and pets aren't allowed.
Official site
More free Christmas fun
Parades aren't the only free fun. Many cities also have free light shows, free Santa visits and free holiday markets.
- Christmas light displays: 55 free light shows and zoo lights on our list.
- Free Santa photos: 62free events with Santa, plus free photos at Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's.
- Christmas markets: 28 markets that are free to walk into.
And the easiest free outing of all: put the kids in pajamas, make some cocoa, and drive or walk past the brightest houses in your town. Go early in the evening, before bedtime and before the crowds.
Tips for free Christmas events with kids
- Pick events that start early. Bedtime is the real limit with little kids.
- Dress in layers, with hats, gloves and warm socks. Bring a blanket for sitting.
- Bring a little money. Free entry doesn't always mean free rides, treats or photos.
- Take the train or bus to big events if you can. Parking fills fast and roads close.
- Bring ear muffs for babies and toddlers if there are fireworks.
- Have a meeting spot in case you get split up in the crowd.
Find a free Christmas event near you
180 events
- Parades and tree lightingsChristmas lightsFree Good for toddlers
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
- Dates
- Dec 2 - Jan 2 · Lighting ceremony Wed, Dec 2, 7-10pm. Lit daily after that into January. Daily viewing hours not posted yet.
- Where
- Rockefeller Plaza, Midtown Manhattan (New York)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No tickets needed to see the tree
The famous tree arrives in early November and is lit on Dec 2. After that you can see it any day for free, with the rink below it.
Parent tip: Skip ceremony night with little kids. A weekday morning visit is usually much calmer.
- Parades and tree lightingsFree Good for toddlers
Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade (100th)
- Dates
- Nov 26 · Thu, Nov 26, from 8:30am to about noon
- Where
- Central Park West to Macy's Herald Square, Upper West Side to Midtown (New York)
- Price
- Free to watch from the street
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No tickets for street viewing. Grandstand seats are not sold to the public.
This year is the 100th parade, with a record 100 balloons and other inflatables. It runs about 2.5 miles from the Upper West Side to 34th Street.
Parent tip: Arrive very early and dress for a long, cold wait. Some stretches near the start and the TV area are closed to viewers.
- Christmas marketsIce skatingFree Good for toddlers
Winter Village at Bryant Park
- Dates
- Oct 28 - Jan 3 · Holiday shops daily to Jan 3: weekdays 11am-8pm, weekends 10am-8pm. Rink open to Feb 28.
- Where
- Bryant Park, Midtown Manhattan (New York)
- Price
- Free entry. Free skating with your own skates. Skate rental from about $19.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up for the shops. Reserve a skate slot online; free slots open one week ahead.
An outdoor holiday market of small shops sits around a free ice rink. It is easy to pair with the library or a walk to Rockefeller Center.
Parent tip: Skate sessions last about 50 minutes. Weekday mornings are usually the quietest.
- Santa visitsFree Good for toddlers
Santaland at Macy's Herald Square
- Dates
- Nov 27 - Dec 24 · Late November to Christmas Eve, during store hours
- Where
- Macy's Herald Square, Midtown Manhattan (34th Street) (New York)
- Price
- Free with a reservation. Paid premium package and photos.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Free time slots open Nov 20, released 7 days before each date
Santaland is new this year. Families ride a pretend train through North Pole scenes and finish with a short visit with Santa.
Parent tip: Weekday slots are calmer than weekends. Ask about the sensory-friendly hours if your child dislikes crowds and noise.
- Christmas lightsFree Good for toddlers
Macy's Holiday Windows
- Dates
- Nov 19 - Jan 4 · On view day and night, Nov 19 to Jan 4
- Where
- Macy's Herald Square, 34th Street side, Midtown Manhattan (New York)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
Macy's big store windows tell a holiday story you can follow from window to window. This year's story stars the Blue Hippopotamus.
Parent tip: Pair the windows with Santaland on the same trip. Evenings are prettier but busier.
- Christmas marketsFree Good for toddlers
Grand Central Holiday Fair
- Dates
- Nov 9 - Dec 24 · Mon-Sat 10am-7pm, Sun 11am-6pm. Until 8pm Dec 17-23. Closed Thanksgiving.
- Where
- Vanderbilt Hall, Grand Central Terminal, Midtown East (New York)
- Price
- Free entry
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
An indoor holiday market of local makers inside the train station. It is warm and dry, which helps on a cold or rainy day.
Parent tip: Look up at the main hall's ceiling on your way in. Weekday mornings are the calmest time to browse.
- Holiday trainsFree Good for toddlers
Holiday Train Show at Grand Central (New York Transit Museum)
- Dates
- Nov 13 - Feb 28 · Opens Fri, Nov 13. Weekdays 10am-7:30pm, weekends 10am-6pm. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. Check the museum site for the last day.
- Where
- New York Transit Museum Gallery, Grand Central Terminal, Midtown East (New York)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
Toy trains run on a big two-level track, from a tiny Grand Central to the North Pole. Small models of New York buildings line the way.
Parent tip: It is a short stop, so pair it with the Holiday Fair in the same station.
- Parades and tree lightingsSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
Dumbo Holiday Tree Lighting
- Dates
- Dec 3 · Thu, Dec 3, 4-7pm. Tree lit at 5:30pm.
- Where
- Dumbo Archway and Plaza, Dumbo, Brooklyn (New York)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No tickets needed
A neighborhood tree lighting with live music, school choirs, free hot cocoa and treats. Santa comes with his elves, and there is a photo booth.
Parent tip: Bring an unwrapped toy for the toy drive. Kids can drop a letter in Santa's mailbox from Thanksgiving to Christmas Eve.
- Parades and tree lightingsFree Good for toddlers
Madison Square Park Holiday Tree Lighting
- Dates
- Dec 3 · Thu, Dec 3, 4:30-5:30pm. Tree lit at about 5pm.
- Where
- Madison Square Park, 23rd St and Madison Ave, Flatiron (New York)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No tickets needed. Optional sign-up for updates.
A short, one-hour tree lighting with live music, warm drinks and photo spots. It is a long-running city tradition.
Parent tip: There is no stroller parking, so a baby carrier is easier.
- Parades and tree lightingsChristmas marketsFree Good for toddlers
NYSE Christmas Tree Lighting
- Dates
- Dec 3 · Thu, Dec 3, 3:30-6:30pm
- Where
- New York Stock Exchange, 11 Wall St, Financial District (New York)
- Price
- Free, open to the public
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No tickets needed
The Stock Exchange lights its big tree on Wall Street, with live music, snacks and a small holiday market.
Parent tip: Come before dark to walk around, then stay for the lighting.
- Parades and tree lightingsChristmas lightsHoliday festivalsFree Good for toddlers
Parade on Rockaway
- Dates
- Dec 4-6 · Tree lighting Fri, Dec 4, 6pm. Parade of lights Sat, Dec 5, 5pm. Free toy giveaway Sun, Dec 6, 2pm.
- Where
- Rockaway Blvd, 130th St to 143rd St, Jamaica, Queens (New York)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No tickets needed
Three days of holiday events in Queens. There is a big tree lighting, a lit-up parade and a toy giveaway for kids.
Parent tip: The Saturday parade is the main event. Pick a spot near the start to leave early with little ones.
- Parades and tree lightingsSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
Bronx Little Italy Christmas Tree Lighting
- Dates
- Dec 5 · Sat, Dec 5, 4-6pm
- Where
- Ciccarone Park, E 188th St and Arthur Ave, Belmont (Arthur Avenue), Bronx (New York)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No tickets needed
A neighborhood tree lighting with Santa, carols, Italian cookies and hot chocolate from local shops.
Parent tip: Arthur Avenue's bakeries are steps away, so plan an early dinner nearby.
- Santa visitsFree Good for toddlers
Santa in the Park (Marine Park)
- Dates
- Dec 5 · Sat, Dec 5, 11am-2pm
- Where
- Carmine Carro Community Center, 3000 Fillmore Ave, Marine Park, Brooklyn (New York)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No sign-up needed
A free city parks event with holiday crafts and a family photo with Santa.
Parent tip: Bring your own phone or camera for the photo.
- Parades and tree lightingsFree Good for toddlers
Carl Schurz Park Holiday Tree Lighting
- Dates
- Dec 6 · Sun, Dec 6, 5pm. Held in any weather.
- Where
- Carl Schurz Park, E 86th St and East End Ave, Upper East Side (New York)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No tickets needed
A small park tree lighting with a choir and brass band singing carols. Free hot chocolate, cookies and candy canes are handed out.
Parent tip: It goes ahead in rain or snow, so pack a rain cover for the stroller.
- Santa visitsFree Good for toddlers
Santa's Corner at Bryant Park
- Dates
- Dec 14-18 · Mon-Fri, Dec 14-18, 10am-noon. Check the park calendar before you go.
- Where
- By the carousel, Bryant Park (enter from 40th St), Midtown Manhattan (New York)
- Price
- Free. A paid Club Santa package is also offered.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No tickets. First come, first served.
Santa visits Bryant Park for five weekday mornings for free photos. It is right by the Winter Village shops and rink.
Parent tip: Lines can form, so arrive before 10am.
- Christmas marketsFree Good for toddlers
Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza
- Dates
- Nov 20 - Dec 24 · Daily. Sun-Thu 11am-8pm, Fri-Sat 11am-9pm. Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve 11am-4pm.
- Where
- Daley Plaza, 50 W. Washington St., The Loop (Chicago)
- Price
- Free to enter
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
Chicago's big German-style Christmas market fills Daley Plaza with wooden huts. Expect hot drinks, pretzels, sausages, ornaments and wooden toys.
Parent tip: Go on a weekday morning or mid-afternoon. Lunch, after work and weekends get packed. Bring cash, since many vendors don't take cards.
- Parades and tree lightingsFree Good for toddlers
Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
- Dates
- Nov 21 · Sat Nov 21. Parade at 5:30pm, fireworks at 7:30pm.
- Where
- North Michigan Avenue, heading south from Oak Street, Magnificent Mile (Chicago)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No tickets. Arrive early for a spot by the curb.
A free evening parade moves down Michigan Avenue and lights up the street's trees for the season. Fireworks over the river end the night.
Parent tip: Pick a spot near the Oak Street end if you want to leave early. The fireworks are best seen from Wacker Drive by the river.
- Parades and tree lightingsFree Good for toddlers
City of Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting
- Dates
- Nov 20 · Fri Nov 20, in the evening. The tree stays up through the holidays.
- Where
- Millennium Park, near Michigan Ave and Washington St, The Loop (Chicago)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No tickets
The city lights its official Christmas tree in Millennium Park with a free show. The tree then stays lit for the season.
Parent tip: The Christkindlmarket opens the same day a few blocks west at Daley Plaza, so you can do both.
- Christmas marketsFree Good for toddlers
Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville
- Dates
- Nov 20 - Dec 31 · Mon-Thu 3-9pm, Fri-Sat 11am-9pm, Sun 11am-7pm. Open from 11am Dec 21-23 and 28-30. Closed Christmas Day.
- Where
- Gallagher Way, 3635 N. Clark St., Wrigleyville (Chicago)
- Price
- Free to enter
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A smaller Christkindlmarket sits right next to Wrigley Field. It stays open a week longer than the downtown market, through New Year's Eve.
Parent tip: Families with small kids often find it calmer than Daley Plaza. On weekdays it doesn't open until 3pm.
- Holiday festivalsFree
Winter Fireworks at Navy Pier
- Dates
- Nov 21 - Dec 26 · Saturdays, Nov 21-Dec 26. 8:30pm on Nov 21, 8pm on the other nights.
- Where
- Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Streeterville (Chicago)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No tickets
Navy Pier sets off free fireworks over the lake every Saturday night through late December.
Parent tip: Pair it with Winter WonderFest at the pier earlier in the day. The bangs are loud, so bring ear covers for little ones.
- Parades and tree lightingsFree Good for toddlers
Chicago Thanksgiving Parade
- Dates
- Nov 26 · Thu Nov 26, 8-10am. It steps off at 7:40am, earlier than in past years.
- Where
- State Street, from Ida B. Wells Dr. north to Randolph St., The Loop (Chicago)
- Price
- Free to watch along State Street
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No tickets. Paid VIP seats are sold near Macy's.
Chicago's Thanksgiving morning parade heads north up State Street. It's an easy way to start the holiday season downtown.
Parent tip: You can bring a blanket or a stadium seat. Outside food and drinks aren't allowed, and bags are checked.
- Christmas lightsFree Good for toddlers
Winter Lights at Central Park
- Dates
- Nov 20 - Jan 3 · Nightly from 4pm until 9:30pm. Closed in bad weather.
- Where
- Central Park, Oak Brook Park District, Oak Brook (western suburbs) (Chicago)
- Price
- Free. Donations welcome.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A free half-mile loop through a park full of light displays. The path is paved, so it's easy with a stroller.
Parent tip: From 4 to 4:30pm the lights stop blinking and the music is off. That helps kids who get overwhelmed.
- Holiday festivalsSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
Feztival of Trees
- Dates
- Nov 23-28 · Nov 23-26 noon-8pm, Fri Nov 27 10am-8pm, Sat Nov 28 10am-7pm
- Where
- Medinah Shrine, 550 N. Shriners Dr., Addison (western suburbs) (Chicago)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A free indoor show of decorated Christmas trees, with Santa photos, snacks and raffle prizes.
Parent tip: It's open on Thanksgiving Day, which helps if you're looking for something to do that afternoon.
- Parades and tree lightingsSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
Glenview Holiday in the Park and Parade
- Dates
- Nov 28 · Sat Nov 28, 4-6pm
- Where
- Glenview Road to Jackman Park, 1011 Lehigh Ave., Glenview (north suburbs) (Chicago)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A small-town parade heads down Glenview Road to Jackman Park. In the park, kids can visit Santa and take a hay ride or a kids' train ride.
Parent tip: Free hot chocolate, cookies and popcorn are part of the fun. Dress warm, since it's all outside.
- Parades and tree lightingsSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
Downtown Evanston Holiday Light Celebration
- Dates
- Dec 5 · Sat Dec 5, 4:30-7pm. Tree lighting around 5pm.
- Where
- Fountain Square, Evanston (north suburbs) (Chicago)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
Local singers perform, then the tree is lit in Fountain Square. Afterward, families can take free photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Parent tip: The Santa photos start around 5:30pm indoors at The Merion, 1611 Chicago Ave., a good place to warm up.
- Parades and tree lightingsChristmas lightsFree Good for toddlers
Boston Common Tree Lighting
- Dates
- Dec 3 · Thu, Dec 3, 6-8pm
- Where
- Boston Common, by the Visitor Information Center (139 Tremont St), Downtown Boston (Boston)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No tickets needed
The city lights a big tree sent each year by Nova Scotia as a thank-you for help after a 1917 disaster. Right after, the trees on the Commonwealth Avenue Mall light up too.
Parent tip: Come early for a spot near the tree. With small kids, stand near the edge of the crowd for an easy exit.
- Christmas marketsFree Good for toddlers
Snowport Holiday Market
- Dates
- Nov 6 - Dec 27 · Mon-Thu 3-8pm, Fri 11am-9pm, Sat 10am-9pm, Sun 10am-8pm
- Where
- 100 Seaport Blvd, Seaport District (Boston)
- Price
- Free entry. Optional weekend fast pass: $15 adults, $7 ages 6-17, 5 and under free.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up. The fast pass only skips the weekend entry line.
A large holiday market with more than 130 small sellers and food stands. Kids get a building and ornament corner and photo spots.
Parent tip: Go on a weekday afternoon to skip weekend lines and avoid paying for the fast pass.
- Parades and tree lightingsChristmas lightsSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
Trellis Lighting at Christopher Columbus Park
- Dates
- Nov 23 · Mon, Nov 23, 5-6pm
- Where
- Christopher Columbus Park, 110 Atlantic Ave, North End / Waterfront (Boston)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No tickets needed
The park's long waterfront trellis lights up for the season. There is live music, and Santa and Rudolph stop by.
Parent tip: It lasts only an hour, so it suits little kids. Free cocoa and cookies are part of the plan.
- Parades and tree lightingsChristmas lightsSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
Lighting of the Ship at Martin's Park
- Dates
- Nov 28 · Sat, Nov 28, 5-6pm
- Where
- Martin's Park, 64 Sleeper St, Fort Point / Seaport (Boston)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No tickets needed
A kids' party at the playground with the big wooden ship. Santa arrives by boat, and the ship and bridge light up.
Parent tip: Kids can meet the rangers' horses, climb on a fire truck and do a craft. Get there a bit early to see the boat come in.
- Parades and tree lightingsChristmas lightsSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
Copley Square Tree Lighting
- Dates
- Nov 30 · Mon, Nov 30, 5-6pm
- Where
- Copley Square, 560 Boylston St, Back Bay (Boston)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No tickets needed
The city lights the Copley Square tree and opens the newly redone square. Expect crafts, a kids' choir, and Santa and Rudolph.
Parent tip: At 6pm, the Fairmont Copley Plaza hotel has cookies and photos with Santa.
- Christmas lightsSanta visitsIce skatingFree Good for toddlers
Enchanted Village at Jordan's Furniture
- Dates
- Nov 13 - Jan 1 · Daily. Mon-Thu 11am-7pm, Fri 11am-8pm, Sat 10am-8pm, Sun 11am-5pm (Dec 11am-6pm). Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas.
- Where
- Jordan's Furniture, 100 Stockwell Dr, Avon (south of Boston) (Boston)
- Price
- Free to walk through. Rides and attractions need paid tickets.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up. Buy tickets for the paid rides there or online.
A restored Victorian holiday village with moving figures, first shown in a downtown Boston department store. Paid extras include a tube slide, an indoor skating rink and a 4D Rudolph ride.
Parent tip: Shorter hours on Dec 24 (11am-3pm) and Dec 31 (10am-4pm). Skating needs a signed waiver.
- Christmas lightsSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
Christmas Festival of Lights at La Salette Shrine
- Dates
- Nov 21 - Jan 3 · Nightly, 5-9pm. Santa photos, carousel and hayride Fri-Sun, 5-9pm.
- Where
- National Shrine of Our Lady of La Salette, 947 Park St, Attleboro (south of Boston) (Boston)
- Price
- Free. Donations welcome.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
More than a million lights cover the trees at this church shrine. There is also a free museum with about 2,000 nativity scenes from around the world.
Parent tip: Weekend traffic backs up 30-60 minutes before the lights come on. Go on a weeknight, and bring a small flashlight for the dark parking lot.
- Parades and tree lightingsSanta visitsChristmas lightsFree Good for toddlers
Santa's Arrival and Holiday Tree Lighting in Salem
- Dates
- Nov 27 · Fri, Nov 27. Santa arrives at 6pm.
- Where
- Hawthorne Hotel to Lappin Park (Essex St and Washington St), Salem (North Shore) (Boston)
- Price
- Free public event (see the official site)
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No tickets needed
Santa lands on the roof of the Hawthorne Hotel with help from the fire department. He then leads a walk down Essex Street to light the town tree.
Parent tip: Be there by 5:45pm for a good view. Kids can carry lanterns in the walk; battery candles are safest. It runs rain or shine.
- Christmas lightsHoliday festivalsFree Good for toddlers
Holiday Pig Wagon Lighting at Powisset Farm
- Dates
- Dec 5 · Sat, Dec 5, 4-5:30pm
- Where
- Powisset Farm, 37 Powisset St, Dover (southwest of Boston) (Boston)
- Price
- Free. Food and drinks for sale.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Free sign-up online. Space is limited, so register early.
A small farm lights up its holiday pig wagon at sunset. Two local kids flip the switch. There are fire pits, carols and a winter craft for kids.
Parent tip: Bring camp chairs or a blanket, since tables are few. Dogs are not allowed on the farm.
- Christmas lightsParades and tree lightingsFree Good for toddlers
National Christmas Tree and Pathway of Peace
- Dates
- Dec 3 - Jan 1 · Lighting ceremony Thu, Dec 3. Tree site open most evenings through Jan 1.
- Where
- The Ellipse, President's Park, National Mall, near the White House (Washington, DC)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Ceremony seats by free lottery (Oct 28-Nov 4); tree site is walk up
The big national tree near the White House, ringed by smaller trees for every state and territory. You can visit free after the lighting night.
Parent tip: Skip the crowded lighting night with little kids and go on a weeknight after. Check the news before you go: federal sites can close if the government shuts down.
- Holiday trainsChristmas lightsFree Good for toddlers
Season's Greenings at the US Botanic Garden
- Dates
- Nov 26 - Jan 3 · Daily 10am-5pm, Nov 26-Jan 3 (closed Dec 25). Open to 8pm on Dec 8, 10, 15, 17, 22 and 29.
- Where
- US Botanic Garden, National Mall, by the Capitol (Washington, DC)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up, no tickets
Model trains run past national parks and landmarks made from plant parts. Inside, the glass house has a DC landmarks display and poinsettias.
Parent tip: The trains are outdoors and may stop in bad weather. Check the news before you go: federal sites can close if the government shuts down.
- Christmas marketsFree Good for toddlers
DC Holiday Market at Dupont Circle
- Dates
- Nov 12 - Dec 23 · Daily, Nov 12-Dec 23. Mon-Fri noon-8pm; Sat-Sun 11am-8pm. Closed Nov 26 and Nov 30.
- Where
- 1500 block of New Hampshire Ave NW, Dupont Circle (Washington, DC)
- Price
- Free to browse
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
An open-air market of gift and craft stalls on a closed block just north of Dupont Circle. It's a separate market from the DowntownDC Holiday Market on F Street.
Parent tip: It's one block from the Dupont Circle Metro. Weekday afternoons are quieter for strollers.
- Christmas marketsFree Good for toddlers
DowntownDC Holiday Market
- Dates
- Nov 13 - Dec 23 · Daily, Nov 13-Dec 23. Mon-Thu noon-8pm; Fri-Sat 11am-9pm; Sun 11am-8pm. Closed Thanksgiving.
- Where
- F Street NW, between 7th and 9th streets, Downtown (Penn Quarter) (Washington, DC)
- Price
- Free entry
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
Downtown's long-running holiday market fills F Street with about 120 stalls of local makers and treats. Kids get a play area called Rudolph Reindeer Games next to the stage.
Parent tip: Take Metro to Gallery Place-Chinatown. Restrooms are on 8th Street, and most stalls take cards, but bring a little cash.
- Parades and tree lightingsSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
Holiday Boat Parade at The Wharf
- Dates
- Dec 5 · Sat, Dec 5, about 5-8pm; fireworks around 8pm
- Where
- District Pier, The Wharf, Southwest Waterfront (Washington, DC)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
More than 60 lit-up boats sail along the Washington Channel. There are Santa photos, crafts and fireworks to finish.
Parent tip: Crowds are big and garages fill fast. Take the Metro to Waterfront; it's a five-minute walk.
- Christmas lightsFree Good for toddlers
Frosted at Franklin Park
- Dates
- Nov 13 - Jan 9 · Nov 13-Jan 9; best after dark
- Where
- Franklin Park, 1332 I St NW, Downtown DC (Washington, DC)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A downtown park strung with lights for the winter. Look for an icicle walkway, giant lit snowflakes and a big glowing bear pair.
Parent tip: It's a short walk from McPherson Square or Metro Center. A quick stroll here fits well before or after dinner downtown. Check the news before you go: federal sites can close if the government shuts down.
- Parades and tree lightingsChristmas lightsFree Good for toddlers
CityCenterDC Holiday Tree Lighting
- Dates
- Nov 14 · Sat, Nov 14, 5-7pm; lighting program at 6pm (rain date Nov 15)
- Where
- The Park at CityCenter, Downtown DC, near Mount Vernon Square (Washington, DC)
- Price
- Free, no tickets needed
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up; optional online sign-up
A 78-foot tree is lit with a countdown. Before that, there's live music, face painting and balloon artists.
Parent tip: Come at 5pm for face painting before the 6pm lighting. Two giant 25-foot reindeer make a good photo spot.
- Parades and tree lightingsSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
Montgomery County Thanksgiving Parade
- Dates
- Nov 21 · Sat, Nov 21, starts 10am
- Where
- Ellsworth Dr and Fenton St, then south on Georgia Ave, Downtown Silver Spring, Maryland (Washington, DC)
- Price
- Free to watch
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up; runs rain or shine
A morning parade with floats, marching bands and big balloons. It starts with Thanksgiving themes and ends with winter holidays and Santa.
Parent tip: It's a morning parade, so it works around nap time. The Silver Spring Metro station is near the route.
- Parades and tree lightingsChristmas lightsFree Good for toddlers
Reston Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting
- Dates
- Nov 27 · Fri, Nov 27. Parade at 11am; tree lighting at 6pm.
- Where
- Reston Town Center (Main Street and Fountain Square), Reston, Virginia (about 20 miles west of DC) (Washington, DC)
- Price
- Free to watch
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A day-after-Thanksgiving parade with floats, marching bands and giant balloons. The town center tree is lit at sunset.
Parent tip: You don't need to stay all day. Pick the late-morning parade or the early-evening lighting, whichever suits naps.
- Parades and tree lightingsFree Good for toddlers
Scottish Walk Holiday Parade
- Dates
- Dec 5 · Sat, Dec 5, 10:30am-12:30pm
- Where
- Streets of Old Town Alexandria, Old Town Alexandria, Virginia (Washington, DC)
- Price
- Free to watch
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
Scottish clans in tartan kilts march through Old Town with bagpipes and drums. Terriers and hounds march too, many in holiday outfits.
Parent tip: Bagpipes and drums are loud up close. Bring ear muffs for babies, and stay for the boat parade that evening.
- Parades and tree lightingsChristmas lightsFree Good for toddlers
Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights
- Dates
- Dec 5 · Sat, Dec 5. Waterfront activities 2-8pm; boats from 5:30pm.
- Where
- Old Town Alexandria Waterfront and Waterfront Park, Old Town Alexandria, Virginia (Washington, DC)
- Price
- Free to watch
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
Dozens of boats covered in lights cruise about a mile of the Potomac shoreline. Waterfront Park has food and activities in the afternoon.
Parent tip: Come in daylight to claim a spot by the water. It gets cold by the river after dark, so pack hats and blankets.
- Holiday festivalsParades and tree lightingsSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
Festival of Lights and Carols
- Dates
- Dec 5 · Sat, Dec 5, noon-6pm. Santa photos 3-5pm; tree lighting 5:30pm.
- Where
- Old Town Square, 10415 North St, City of Fairfax, Virginia (Washington, DC)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A small-town holiday afternoon with live music, kids' crafts and free s'mores and warm cider. It ends with carols and a tree lighting.
Parent tip: Come for Santa photos between 3 and 5pm, then stay for the 5:30pm tree lighting.
- Parades and tree lightingsHoliday festivalsSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
McLean Winterfest Parade and Block Party
- Dates
- Dec 6 · Sun, Dec 6. Block party from 12:30pm; parade 1:30-2:45pm; Santa from 3pm.
- Where
- Old Chain Bridge Rd and Langley Shopping Center, McLean, Virginia (Washington, DC)
- Price
- Free to watch; food extra
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A Sunday afternoon parade with bands, floats and dancers. A block party with food stands and a Santa station follows.
Parent tip: Santa's station opens after the parade, at 3pm. Get in line early, because the party ends at 4:30pm.
- Parades and tree lightingsSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
Leesburg Christmas and Holiday Parade
- Dates
- Dec 12 · Sat, Dec 12, 6pm (rain date Sun, Dec 13)
- Where
- From Ida Lee Park down King Street, Historic downtown Leesburg, Virginia (about 35 miles west of DC) (Washington, DC)
- Price
- Free to watch
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
An evening parade through Leesburg's historic downtown. Santa and his friends ride along at the end.
Parent tip: It starts at dark and it's cold, so bring layers and a blanket. Find a curb spot on King Street early.
- Santa visitsHoliday festivalsFree Good for toddlers
Holiday Open House at Belle Meade
- Dates
- Nov 12 · Thu Nov 12, 5-8pm
- Where
- Belle Meade Historic Site, 110 Leake Ave., Belle Meade (west Nashville) (Nashville)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Free, but reserve a spot through the site
The historic Belle Meade mansion opens for one holiday evening. Kids can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, and carolers sing on the grounds.
Parent tip: It's one night only and early in the season. Book your free spot as soon as you know you're going.
- Ice skatingFree
The Rink Under the Giant Guitar
- Dates
- Nov 20 - Jan 18 · Daily 4-8pm. Longer hours Dec 21-28 (noon-10pm). Christmas Eve noon-4pm. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and New Year's Day.
- Where
- Under the Giant Guitar sign, Wedgewood Houston, Wedgewood-Houston (Nashville)
- Price
- Free to skate. Skate rental $10.
- Ages and booking
- All ages. Skates start at toddler size 9. · Walk up. Free timed tickets are handed out in person, first come, first served.
A new outdoor ice rink sits under a giant guitar sign south of downtown. Sessions last 45 minutes, and there's hot chocolate nearby.
Parent tip: Kids under 7 need an adult with them. Tickets are first come, first served, so arrive close to opening.
- Christmas marketsSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
Franklin Makers Holiday Market
- Dates
- Nov 14 · Sat Nov 14, 11am-4pm
- Where
- The Lake at Westhaven, 157 Front St., Franklin (Westhaven) (Nashville)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
An outdoor holiday market by the lake at Westhaven, with local makers and food. Santa is there for free photos.
Parent tip: It's outside in mid-November, so pack layers for the kids.
- Christmas marketsFree Good for toddlers
Holiday Market at the Mansion
- Dates
- Nov 21-22 · Sat Nov 21 10am-4pm, Sun Nov 22 10am-3pm
- Where
- Andrew Jackson's Hermitage, 4580 Rachel's Lane, Hermitage (east of the airport) (Nashville)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
An outdoor craft and gift market on the grounds of the Hermitage. Local artists sell gifts, and there's food too.
Parent tip: It's outdoors in late November, so dress the kids in layers.
- Parades and tree lightingsChristmas lightsFree Good for toddlers
Deck the Hulls Christmas Boat Parade
- Dates
- Dec 5 · Sat Dec 5, 5:30-8pm
- Where
- Old Hickory Lake, from Drakes Creek past Mallard Park to Sanders Ferry Park, Hendersonville (about 25 minutes northeast) (Nashville)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No tickets
Boats covered in Christmas lights cruise along Old Hickory Lake after dark. You watch from the shore.
Parent tip: It gets cold by the water at night. Bring blankets and a thermos, and pick a spot near Mallard Park, where the judges sit.
- Santa visitsHoliday festivalsFree Good for toddlers
Christmas at Patterson
- Dates
- Dec 18-19 · Fri Dec 18, 6-8pm, and Sat Dec 19, 4-6pm
- Where
- Patterson Park Community Center, 521 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Murfreesboro (about 40 minutes southeast) (Nashville)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A free city Christmas party with Santa and his sleigh for your own photos. Kids can decorate ornaments, eat cookies and hear a story from Mrs. Claus.
Parent tip: Bring your own phone or camera. The Santa photos are do-it-yourself.
- Holiday festivalsHoliday trainsChristmas lightsFree Good for toddlers
Seattle Center Winterfest
- Dates
- Nov 27 - Dec 31 · Daily. Model train 10am-6pm (4pm on Dec 24, closed Dec 25). Ice carving Saturdays at noon until Dec 19.
- Where
- Armory and grounds, Seattle Center, Seattle Center (Lower Queen Anne) (Seattle)
- Price
- Free. Donations help keep the train running.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
Seattle Center's free holiday season. Kids can run a big model train, watch ice carvers and see the lights after dark.
Parent tip: The train hall is indoors and warm on a rainy day. The Christmas Market is right next door.
- Parades and tree lightingsChristmas lightsFree Good for toddlers
Snowflake Lane
- Dates
- Nov 27 - Dec 24 · Nightly at 7pm.
- Where
- Bellevue Way between NE 4th and NE 8th Streets, Downtown Bellevue (Seattle)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A free holiday parade with floats, music and dancers along Bellevue Way. It runs every night at 7pm and is short.
Parent tip: Get there a little early so small kids can stand at the front.
- Christmas lightsHoliday festivalsFree Good for toddlers
Pathway of Lights at Green Lake
- Dates
- Dec 12 · One night only, Sat Dec 12. Check the official site for the start time.
- Where
- Green Lake Community Center, Green Lake, north Seattle (Seattle)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A free one-night lights event at Green Lake. It has been a Seattle tradition for over 40 years.
Parent tip: It is outdoors by the lake in December. Dress everyone for cold and rain.
- Christmas marketsSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
Holiday Night Market with Santa at Pike Place Market
- Dates
- Dec 10 · Thu Dec 10, 5-9pm.
- Where
- Pike Place Market, Downtown Seattle (Seattle)
- Price
- Santa photos are free. Shopping and treats cost extra.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
An evening market with gifts from local makers and holiday treats. Kids can get a free photo with Santa.
Parent tip: Go early in the evening with little ones, before bedtime and the bigger crowds.
- Christmas lightsHoliday festivalsFree Good for toddlers
Winter Bonsai Solstice at Pacific Bonsai Museum
- Dates
- Dec 12 · Sat Dec 12, 4-7pm.
- Where
- Pacific Bonsai Museum, 2515 S 336th St, Federal Way, south of Seattle (Seattle)
- Price
- Free. Parking is free too.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No tickets mentioned. Check the official site.
The bonsai trees are lit up for one evening. There is music, free hot chocolate and a food truck.
Parent tip: Bring a flashlight for the paths. It goes ahead rain or shine, so pack rain gear.
- Christmas marketsFree Good for toddlers
Denver Christkindlmarket
- Dates
- Nov 20 - Dec 23 · Mon-Thu 1-9pm. Fri-Sun and Dec 17-23, 11am-9pm. Thanksgiving 11am-4pm.
- Where
- Tivoli Quad, Auraria Campus, 1000 Larimer St, Auraria, west edge of downtown (Denver)
- Price
- Free entry
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A German-style holiday market with wooden huts, food and a carousel. It is now on the Auraria Campus, next to the Mile High Tree.
Parent tip: Sundays have extra kid entertainment. Weekends get crowded, so weekday afternoons are easier with a stroller.
- Christmas lightsFree Good for toddlers
The Mile High Tree
- Dates
- Nov 20 - Dec 31 · Nightly 5-10pm. A light and music show every 15 minutes.
- Where
- Tivoli Quad, Auraria Campus, Auraria, west edge of downtown (Denver)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A 110-foot tree covered in LED lights, with a short light and music show every 15 minutes.
Parent tip: Pair it with the Christkindlmarket next door. A drone show is planned most nights at 7pm, so check the schedule.
- Parades and tree lightingsSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
9NEWS Parade of Lights
- Dates
- Dec 5 · Saturday evening, Dec 5. Check the start time closer to the date.
- Where
- Downtown Denver, starting at 14th and Bannock Streets (Denver)
- Price
- Free to watch. Grandstand seats are sold.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up. Grandstand seats are booked ahead.
Denver's big free night parade, with lit-up floats and Santa. The route loops about two miles through downtown.
Parent tip: Families claim curb spots early with chairs. Dress for a cold night and bring a blanket.
- Christmas lightsSanta visitsHoliday festivalsFree Good for toddlers
Switch on the Holidays in Downtown Boulder
- Dates
- Nov 22 · Sun Nov 22, 11am-7pm. Lights switch on at 5pm.
- Where
- 1300 block of Pearl Street, Downtown Boulder (Denver)
- Price
- Santa visits are free.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
Downtown Boulder turns on its holiday lights along the Pearl Street Mall. The day also has a cookie crawl, a tuba concert and free visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Parent tip: Santa is at the Downtown Boulder visitor center until 7pm. Visit before the 5pm light switch-on to beat the crowd.
- Parades and tree lightingsSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
Golden Holiday Parade
- Dates
- Dec 12 · Sat Dec 12, 10:30am.
- Where
- Washington Avenue, 10th to 13th Streets, Golden, west metro (Denver)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A morning parade in historic downtown Golden, with bands, floats, carolers and Santa. Kids can drop off letters to Santa at the Golden Welcome Center.
Parent tip: Free carriage rides run noon-2pm after the parade. Leave chairs and pets at home, since it gets crowded.
- Holiday festivalsChristmas lightsFree Good for toddlers
December Nights in Balboa Park
- Dates
- Dec 4-5 · Fri, Dec 4, 4-10pm; Sat, Dec 5, noon-10pm
- Where
- Balboa Park, Balboa Park, central San Diego (San Diego)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up, no tickets
The city's biggest free holiday party fills Balboa Park for two days. Expect lights, live music and family activities across the park.
Parent tip: It gets very crowded after dark. Go Saturday afternoon with little ones, and skip driving: parking fills hours early.
- Parades and tree lightingsChristmas lightsFree Good for toddlers
San Diego Bay Parade of Lights
- Dates
- Dec 13-20 · Sun, Dec 13 and Sun, Dec 20, starts 5:30pm
- Where
- San Diego Bay, from Shelter Island, Downtown waterfront and Coronado (San Diego)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
Dozens of boats covered in lights sail along the bay. You can watch from several spots on the shore.
Parent tip: Top viewing spots fill up, so arrive early. Bring warm layers for the wait by the water.
- Parades and tree lightingsHoliday festivalsSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
La Jolla Christmas Parade and Holiday Festival
- Dates
- Dec 6 · Sun, Dec 6. Parade starts 1pm; festival 1-5pm.
- Where
- Girard Ave to La Jolla Recreation Center (San Diego)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up; Santa visit slots can be reserved online
A small-town style daytime parade, now in its 70th year. A free festival with Santa follows at the rec center.
Parent tip: It's a daytime parade, so it works well with nap-time kids. Reserve a Santa slot early.
- Parades and tree lightingsFree Good for toddlers
Coronado Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting
- Dates
- Dec 4 · Fri, Dec 4, evening (check start time)
- Where
- Orange Ave to Rotary Park, Coronado (San Diego)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A hometown evening parade down Coronado's main street. The town tree is lit when it ends.
Parent tip: Bring chairs and claim a curb spot early. Pair it with the lights at Hotel del Coronado.
- Parades and tree lightingsChristmas marketsSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
Little Italy Tree Lighting and Christmas Village
- Dates
- Dec 5 · Sat, Dec 5, 4-8pm; tree lighting 6:30pm
- Where
- Piazza della Famiglia and India Street, Little Italy, downtown (San Diego)
- Price
- Free to attend
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A street party with live music, treats, a gift market on India Street and a tree lighting. Santa comes too.
Parent tip: Take the trolley to the Little Italy stop. Streets close and parking is hard that night.
- Parades and tree lightingsHoliday festivalsFree Good for toddlers
Liberty Station Tree Lighting
- Dates
- Nov 27 · Fri, Nov 27, 5-9pm
- Where
- North Promenade, Liberty Station, Point Loma (San Diego)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
An 88-foot pine tree is lit the day after Thanksgiving. There is live music, fire truck rides and an outdoor showing of The Grinch.
Parent tip: The holiday ice rink opens nearby the week before, so you can make an evening of it.
- Parades and tree lightingsFree Good for toddlers
Encinitas Holiday Parade
- Dates
- Dec 5 · Sat, Dec 5, starts 5:30pm
- Where
- South Coast Highway 101, D St to J St, Encinitas, North County (San Diego)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A hometown evening parade down the coast highway in old Encinitas. This year's theme is "40 and Still Fabulous."
Parent tip: Bring a blanket or chairs for the curb. Evenings near the beach get chilly fast.
- Parades and tree lightingsFree Good for toddlers
Ocean Beach Holiday Parade
- Dates
- Dec 5 · Sat, Dec 5, 5pm
- Where
- Ocean Beach business district (San Diego)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A small, laid-back evening parade through the Ocean Beach business district.
Parent tip: Street parking is scarce that night. Come early and grab dinner nearby before it starts.
- Holiday festivalsParades and tree lightingsFree Good for toddlers
North Pole by the Sea in Del Mar
- Dates
- Dec 6 · Sun, Dec 6, 1-5pm; tree lighting at 5pm
- Where
- Del Mar Village (several spots), Del Mar, North County (San Diego)
- Price
- Free snow play; see the official site for other activities
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A small village holiday afternoon with real snow to play in, kids' crafts, letters to Santa and carolers. It ends with a tree lighting.
Parent tip: It's spread over several blocks. Start at the snow area while kids have the most energy.
- Holiday festivalsChristmas marketsSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
Holiday in the Village, La Mesa
- Dates
- Dec 12 · Sat, Dec 12, noon-9pm
- Where
- La Mesa Blvd, Spring St to 4th St, La Mesa, East County (San Diego)
- Price
- Free to attend; kids' shopping items $5 or less
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A holiday street fair fills La Mesa Blvd in the old downtown. Kids 10 and under can shop vendor booths for gifts at $5 or less.
Parent tip: Ask at the info booth for the elf scavenger hunt. It keeps kids busy while you walk the vendors.
- Parades and tree lightingsChristmas lightsFree Good for toddlers
Mission Bay Boat Parade of Lights
- Dates
- Dec 12 · Sat, Dec 12, starts 5:30pm
- Where
- Mission Bay (San Diego)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
Boats covered in lights cruise around Mission Bay after dark. SeaWorld's fireworks that night kick off the evening.
Parent tip: Bring a blanket and warm layers for sitting on the shore. Snacks help with the wait.
- Christmas lightsFree Good for toddlers
SF SPCA Holiday Windows at Macy's
- Dates
- Nov 20 - Dec 31 · Wed-Sun, noon-5pm. Closed Nov 26 and Dec 25.
- Where
- Macy's Union Square, Union Square, downtown (San Francisco)
- Price
- Free to look
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
Store windows filled with adoptable puppies and kittens. It makes a quick, free stop for little kids.
Parent tip: Pair it with the ice rink across the street.
- Parades and tree lightingsChristmas lightsFree Good for toddlers
PIER 39 Christmas Tree Lighting
- Dates
- Nov 23 - Jan 10 · Tree lighting party Thu Dec 3, evening. Holiday season Nov 23 to Jan 10.
- Where
- PIER 39, Entrance Plaza, Fisherman's Wharf (San Francisco)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A 60-foot tree at the front of the pier, with live music and a visit from the North Pole on lighting night.
Parent tip: Lighting night is the busiest. With a stroller, a later December evening is easier.
- Christmas lightsHoliday festivalsSanta visitsParades and tree lightingsFree Good for toddlers
Christmas in the Park, San Jose
- Dates
- Nov 27 - Jan 1 · Daily, noon-10pm, including Dec 24 and 25. Tree lighting on opening night.
- Where
- Plaza de Cesar Chavez, Downtown San Jose, South Bay (San Francisco)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A free downtown park full of decorated trees and holiday displays. Photos with Santa are free too.
Parent tip: Santa's hours are posted closer to the season. Check before you drive down.
- Parades and tree lightingsSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
Civic Center Plaza Tree Lighting
- Dates
- Dec 2 · Wed Dec 2, 4-7pm. The tree is lit at 5:30pm. Rain or shine.
- Where
- Civic Center Plaza (San Francisco)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up. You can RSVP online for a reminder.
A free tree lighting with fake snow, holiday crafts and a book giveaway. Santa stops by too.
Parent tip: The first 500 kids age 12 and under get a free toy. Come right at 4pm if that matters to you.
- Parades and tree lightingsFree Good for toddlers
Sausalito Lighted Boat Parade and Fireworks
- Dates
- Dec 12 · Sat Dec 12. Parade at 6pm, fireworks about 7:15pm.
- Where
- Gabrielson Park and the Sausalito waterfront, Sausalito, Marin (San Francisco)
- Price
- Free to watch. Reserved seats cost extra.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up. Reserved seats are sold online while they last.
Boats covered in lights sail past the Sausalito shore. Fireworks over the water end the night.
Parent tip: The park fills up by early afternoon. Fireworks are loud, so bring ear muffs for babies.
- Santa visitsHoliday festivalsFree Good for toddlers
Snow Showers and Santa Photos at Santana Row
- Dates
- Dec 1-29 · Snow on Tue and Sat, Dec 1-29, 6-8pm. Santa on Dec 1, 8 and 15, 6-8pm.
- Where
- Santana Row (Park Valencia and Oak Tree Lounge), West San Jose, South Bay (San Francisco)
- Price
- Santa photos are free. No ticket listed for the snow.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
An outdoor shopping street with fake snow on December evenings. Santa poses for free photos on three Tuesdays.
Parent tip: Snow falls every 30 minutes, so you won't wait long. Bring your own camera for Santa.
- Parades and tree lightingsFree
Hollywood Christmas Parade
- Dates
- Nov 29 · Sunday after Thanksgiving, in the evening. 2026 start time not posted yet.
- Where
- Hollywood Boulevard parade route (Los Angeles)
- Price
- Free curbside viewing. Grandstand seats $120 adults, $60 kids under 16.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up for free spots. Grandstand seats are reserved online.
A big evening parade through the streets of Hollywood. Roads close early and crowds are heavy.
Parent tip: Take the Metro B Line to skip road closures. Get there well before the start for a curb spot.
- Parades and tree lightingsChristmas lightsFree Good for toddlers
Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade
- Dates
- Dec 12 · Sat Dec 12. Park event 4-8pm, light show 5:45pm, boat parade 6-8pm.
- Where
- Burton Chace Park and the Main Channel, Marina del Rey (Los Angeles)
- Price
- No admission listed. RSVP for the park event on Eventbrite. Lot parking $5-$15.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Free RSVP for the park event. Watch from the waterfront without booking.
Decorated boats circle the marina after a short light show. The 2026 theme is Hollywood Under the Stars.
Parent tip: Evenings by the water get chilly, so bring layers. Lot parking costs $5-$15.
- Holiday festivalsFree Good for toddlers
Holiday Performances and Snowfall at Westfield Century City
- Dates
- Nov 21 - Dec 28 · Thu-Sun. Short shows with snow every 30 minutes, 4-8pm. Extra snowfalls at noon and 2pm.
- Where
- Westfield Century City, Holiday Village, Century City, Westside (Los Angeles)
- Price
- No ticket listed.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
Short holiday shows with falling fake snow in the mall's holiday village, four days a week.
Parent tip: Shows start every half hour from 4 to 8pm, so you won't wait long.
- Parades and tree lightingsChristmas lightsFree Good for toddlers
Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade
- Dates
- Dec 16-20 · Wed Dec 16 to Sun Dec 20. Parade starts about 6:30pm each night. Drone shows nightly.
- Where
- Newport Harbor (Marina Park is the main free viewing spot), Newport Beach (Orange County) (Los Angeles)
- Price
- Free to watch from Marina Park
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
Lit-up boats cruise the harbor five nights in a row. Short drone shows run each night too.
Parent tip: Marina Park has the most room, but only 177 parking spaces. Arrive early.
- Parades and tree lightingsFree Good for toddlers
Tree Lighting at The Battery Atlanta
- Dates
- Nov 28 · Sat Nov 28, 5-8pm
- Where
- The Battery Atlanta, Cumberland, by Truist Park (Atlanta)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No tickets
Live music on the plaza, then Santa helps light the tree. An outdoor holiday movie plays after.
Parent tip: Event-day parking rates apply, so arrive early or share a ride.
- Parades and tree lightingsFree Good for toddlers
Light Up the Season Lantern Parade at Piedmont Park
- Dates
- Nov 22 · Sun Nov 22. Lantern-making from 3:30pm, parade at 5pm, lighting right after.
- Where
- Greystone and the Meadow, Piedmont Park, Midtown (Atlanta)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Free. The park suggests registering ahead.
Families make paper lanterns, then walk with a band around Lake Clara Meer. The park's big tree, menorah and kinara light up at the end.
Parent tip: Come for the lantern-making at 3:30pm so kids have a lantern to carry. Park Tavern shows a family movie with hot cocoa afterward.
- Santa visitsShows and NutcrackerFree Good for toddlers
Merry Mighty Mo and More! at the Fox
- Dates
- Nov 29 · Sun Nov 29. Doors 3pm, show 4pm.
- Where
- Fox Theatre, 660 Peachtree St. NE, Midtown (Atlanta)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Free, but get tickets ahead through the Fox
A free afternoon of carol sing-alongs on the Fox's big organ, live music and a holiday movie. Santa poses for free photos.
Parent tip: Bring new socks to donate to City of Refuge. Get there when doors open for the Santa photos.
- Santa visitsFree Good for toddlers
Santa's Post Office at The Battery Atlanta
- Dates
- Nov 21 - Dec 24 · Select Fri-Sun from Nov 21, noon-6pm (to 8pm from Dec 11). Check the calendar.
- Where
- Holiday Community Corner, Power Alley at Battery Ave., Cumberland, by Truist Park (Atlanta)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · First come, first served. Elves text you when it's your turn.
A free Santa visit. Parents take the photos with their own phones.
Parent tip: Check in, then shop or eat nearby until your text comes. Public decks are free for two hours, except on event days.
- Parades and tree lightingsSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
City of Alpharetta Tree Lighting
- Dates
- Nov 21 · Sat Nov 21, in the evening
- Where
- Alpharetta City Center (Atlanta)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No tickets. Rain or shine.
Alpharetta's tree lighting has live music, sing-alongs, marshmallow roasting and fake snow flurries. Santa stops by.
Parent tip: Check the city site for the exact start time, and bring a blanket for sitting on the lawn.
- Christmas marketsFree Good for toddlers
Atlanta Christkindl Market (Lawrenceville)
- Dates
- Nov 20 - Dec 24 · Wed-Thu 3-9pm, Fri-Sun 11am-9pm. Also open Nov 23-25 and Dec 21-23, 11am-9pm. Closed Thanksgiving. Christmas Eve 11am-4pm.
- Where
- Lawrenceville Lawn, 210 Luckie St, Lawrenceville, in Gwinnett County (Atlanta)
- Price
- Free admission
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
Atlanta's German-style Christmas market now sets up on the lawn in downtown Lawrenceville, with handmade gifts and German food. Free parking comes with a lit-up walk, the Winterlight Walk, to the market.
Parent tip: Last year's first season here broke records, so go on a Wednesday or Thursday when it opens at 3pm. Park free at the county justice center (75 Langley Dr) and walk under half a mile.
- Christmas marketsFree Good for toddlers
Atlanta Christkindl Market (Senoia)
- Dates
- Nov 27 - Dec 24 · Wed-Thu 3-9pm, Fri-Sun 11am-9pm. Also open Dec 21-23, 11am-9pm. Christmas Eve 11am-4pm.
- Where
- 158 Seavy Street, Downtown Senoia, on Atlanta's south side (Atlanta)
- Price
- Free admission
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
The market opens a second, smaller-town location this year, just off Senoia's historic Main Street. Expect German food, handmade gifts and local makers.
Parent tip: Santa visits on set days, so check the Santa schedule on the official site. Park on the street downtown and walk over.
- Parades and tree lightingsFree Good for toddlers
H-E-B Thanksgiving Day Parade
- Dates
- Nov 26 · Thanksgiving morning, Thu Nov 26, from 9am
- Where
- Downtown Houston streets (check the city's route map) (Houston)
- Price
- Free to watch from the curb. Reserved grandstand seats cost extra.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No tickets for curbside. Grandstand seats are sold ahead.
Houston's big Thanksgiving morning parade rolls through downtown. This is its 77th year.
Parent tip: Get there early for a curb spot. Grandstand seats are worth it if you have a toddler who won't stand for long.
- Christmas lightsFree Good for toddlers
Holiday on The Waterway
- Dates
- Nov 21 - Jan 3 · Every evening through the season
- Where
- The Woodlands Waterway (Houston)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
Light tunnels, giant lit-up presents and snowflakes line the Waterway. A free trolley rides right through the tunnels.
Parent tip: The trolley shares the north side path, so keep small kids on the sidewalk there.
- Parades and tree lightingsSanta visitsHoliday festivalsFree Good for toddlers
Lighting of the Doves Festival
- Dates
- Nov 21 · Sat Nov 21, 3-8pm. Lighting and fireworks around 7pm.
- Where
- Town Green Park, 2099 Lake Robbins Dr., The Woodlands (Houston)
- Price
- Free. Snow play and slides need a $5 wristband.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
The Woodlands' kickoff night, with music, crafts, snow play, Santa arriving by sleigh on the Waterway and fireworks.
Parent tip: Park free in the colored lots on Timberloch Place and Grogan's Mill Road. Bring cash or card for the snow wristband.
- Parades and tree lightingsFree Good for toddlers
Sugar Land Christmas Tree Lighting
- Dates
- Nov 20 · Fri Nov 20, 5-8pm
- Where
- Sugar Land Town Square, 2711 Plaza Dr. (Houston)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A small-town style tree lighting with music, hot chocolate, face painting and a spot to write letters to Santa.
Parent tip: Park free at Mercer Stadium and take the shuttle. It runs from 4:30 to 9:30pm.
- Santa visitsChristmas lightsFree Good for toddlers
Neighborhood Nights: Holiday Edition at Memorial Park
- Dates
- Dec 4 · Fri Dec 4, from 5pm. Free movie at 6pm.
- Where
- Clay Family Eastern Glades, Memorial Park (Houston)
- Price
- Free. RSVP is encouraged but not required.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
The park's free opening night for its December lights, with Santa photos, a train ride, hot cocoa and an outdoor Frozen screening.
Parent tip: Bring a blanket and your own snacks. Outside food is OK, but no glass.
- Parades and tree lightingsSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
Deck the Depot Tree Lighting
- Dates
- Dec 5 · Sat Dec 5, 4-8pm
- Where
- Tomball Depot Plaza, 201 S. Elm St. (Houston)
- Price
- Free. Free parking.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
Tomball's tree lighting, with Santa photos, free hot chocolate and treats, music, and fake snow near the end of the night.
Parent tip: Visit Santa early, before the lighting crowd builds.
- Christmas marketsHoliday festivalsFree Good for toddlers
Tomball German Christmas Market
- Dates
- Dec 11-13 · Fri Dec 11 6-10pm, Sat Dec 12 10am-10pm, Sun Dec 13 10am-6pm. Parade Sat at 10:30am.
- Where
- Old Town Tomball (Houston)
- Price
- Free. Free parking.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A German-style Christmas market with vendor booths, food, music and a Saturday morning parade.
Parent tip: On Saturday and Sunday, use the free shuttle from the east lot of HCA Houston Healthcare Tomball.
- Parades and tree lightingsFree Good for toddlers
Christmas Boat Lane Parade
- Dates
- Dec 12 · Sat Dec 12. Starts 6pm with fireworks in Nassau Bay. Boats reach Kemah around 7:30pm.
- Where
- Clear Lake to the Kemah Channel, Clear Lake / Kemah (Houston)
- Price
- Free to watch
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
Lit-up boats parade across Clear Lake and through the Kemah Channel. You watch from the shore at public spots along the route.
Parent tip: Pick a spot near the start, like Nassau Bay Lagoon, if you want an earlier night. The boats reach Kemah later in the evening.
- Christmas lightsFree Good for toddlers
Lights in the Heights
- Dates
- Dec 12 · Sat Dec 12, 6-9pm
- Where
- Woodland Heights neighborhood streets (Highland and Omar), The Heights (Houston)
- Price
- Free to walk
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
One night when a whole neighborhood decks out its houses and musicians play on front porches. Families stroll the closed streets.
Parent tip: The lit-up dinosaurs on the Norhill Esplanade are the kid favorite. Expect street closures and park a few blocks out.
- Shows and NutcrackerFree Good for toddlers
Carols on the Green (Houston Grand Opera)
- Dates
- Dec 12 · Sat Dec 12, 7pm
- Where
- Discovery Green, Downtown (Houston)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A free outdoor holiday concert from the city's opera company, with carols and sing-alongs under the downtown skyline.
Parent tip: Bring a blanket for the lawn. You can leave early without missing much if kids get tired.
- Christmas marketsFree Good for toddlers
The Woodlands Winter Makers Market
- Dates
- Dec 12 · Sat Dec 12, 10am-4pm
- Where
- The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park, 6464 Creekside Forest Dr., The Woodlands (Creekside Park) (Houston)
- Price
- Free entry. KidZone wristbands cost extra.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A local makers' holiday market with food trucks and a kids' zone with a trackless train, crafts, putt-putt and bounce houses.
Parent tip: Buy the KidZone wristband if your kids will want the train and bounce houses.
- Christmas marketsFree Good for toddlers
The Snowflake Market at POST Houston
- Dates
- Dec 13 · Sun Dec 13, 10:30am-5:30pm
- Where
- POST Houston, Downtown (Houston)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
An indoor holiday market with local sellers and food on the ground floor. Upstairs, the rooftop has its winter decorations.
Parent tip: Go early, before lunch, when aisles are easier with a stroller.
- Christmas lightsFree Good for toddlers
Holiday Lights on the River Walk
- Dates
- Nov 27 - Dec 31 · Nightly from Nov 27, sundown to sunrise, through early January.
- Where
- San Antonio River Walk, Downtown (San Antonio)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
About 200,000 lights hang in the trees over the river. Walk the paths or see them from a river boat.
Parent tip: Weeknights are calmer than weekends. If little legs get tired, see the lights from a river boat.
- Parades and tree lightingsFree Good for toddlers
Opening Night Tree Lighting at The Rock at La Cantera
- Dates
- Nov 21 · Sat Nov 21, 7-10pm
- Where
- Frost Plaza, The Rock at La Cantera, 1 Spurs Way, Northwest, off I-10 and Loop 1604 (San Antonio)
- Price
- Free entry and free parking. Skating costs extra.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
The plaza lights its tree and opens its outdoor rink for the season. There's live music, a kids' craft corner and s'mores.
Parent tip: Kids can write letters to Santa at the craft corner. Map it as "The Rock at La Cantera", not the street address.
- Parades and tree lightingsChristmas lightsFree Good for toddlers
Christmas in the Plaza at the Alamo
- Dates
- Nov 28 · Sat Nov 28, 6-8pm
- Where
- Alamo Plaza and Plaza de Valero, Downtown (San Antonio)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
See the Alamo's Christmas tree and holiday lights on the plaza after dark. It's a short, free stop downtown.
Parent tip: The church and grounds are closed during this event. Pair it with a walk along the River Walk lights a few blocks away.
- Holiday festivalsFree Good for toddlers
Christmas at the Alamo
- Dates
- Dec 5 · Sat Dec 5, 10am-2pm
- Where
- Plaza de Valero, The Alamo, 300 Alamo Plaza, Downtown (San Antonio)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
Living history actors show how Texans spent Christmas in the 1800s. There's a band and a musket firing demo.
Parent tip: Musket shots are loud. Bring ear covers for babies and toddlers.
- Santa visitsFree Good for toddlers
Cowboy Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Alamo
- Dates
- Dec 12 · Sat Dec 12, 10am-2pm
- Where
- Alamo Plaza, 300 Alamo Plaza, Downtown (San Antonio)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
Cowboy Santa and Mrs. Claus meet kids in front of the Alamo church. Photos are free.
Parent tip: It's a short walk from the River Walk, so you can add a stroll by the river after.
- Christmas marketsFree Good for toddlers
River Walk December and Holiday Artisan Shows
- Dates
- Dec 11-20 · Dec 11-13 and Dec 18-20
- Where
- River Walk Extension, near the Shops at Rivercenter, Downtown (San Antonio)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
Local artists set up booths along the river for holiday shopping. Shows usually have more than 40 booths.
Parent tip: The Shops at Rivercenter sit right next to the booths if you need a warm-up or snack stop.
- Christmas marketsSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
Holiday Art Market at the Tobin Center
- Dates
- Nov 28 · Sat Nov 28, 10am-4pm
- Where
- Tobin Center for the Performing Arts, 100 Auditorium Circle, Downtown (San Antonio)
- Price
- Free admission
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A one-day holiday market across the Tobin Center. Kids get Santa photos, a mechanical reindeer and reindeer lawn games.
Parent tip: It's the day after the river parade, which starts right outside the Tobin.
- Christmas lightsFree Good for toddlers
Winterfest Wonders of Light Walking Trail
- Dates
- Nov 6 - Jan 31 · Nightly, Nov 6, 2026 to Jan 31, 2027
- Where
- Riverwalk path at Patriot Park, 186 Old Mill Ave., Pigeon Forge (Gatlinburg)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A free light trail runs along the river path in Pigeon Forge, with more than 45 nature-themed displays. The path is wheelchair-friendly, so it works well with a stroller.
Parent tip: Park at Patriot Park and walk the trail first, then drive the Parkway lights on the way back.
- Christmas lightsFree Good for toddlers
Gatlinburg Winter Magic Lights
- Dates
- Nov 5 - Feb 15 · Daily, Nov 5, 2026 to Feb 15, 2027
- Where
- Displays all over downtown Gatlinburg (Gatlinburg)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No tickets. Walk or drive the route.
Light displays line the streets of downtown Gatlinburg all winter. Kids can hunt for 43 life-size snowpeople around town using the Visit Gatlinburg app.
Parent tip: Download the app or the printable map before you go. The snowpeople hunt keeps kids busy on a stroll down the Parkway.
- Parades and tree lightingsFree Good for toddlers
Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade
- Dates
- Dec 4 · Fri Dec 4, 2026, 7:30-9pm
- Where
- The Parkway, downtown Gatlinburg (Gatlinburg)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No tickets. Arrive early for a curb spot.
Gatlinburg's big nighttime Christmas parade rolls down the Parkway with lit-up floats. It is free to watch.
Parent tip: Get there early and bring blankets or camp chairs. Downtown fills up well before 7:30pm.
- Christmas lightsHoliday festivalsFree Good for toddlers
Winterfest at The Island
- Dates
- Nov 21 - Jan 31 · Nightly, Nov 21, 2026 to Jan 31, 2027. Light and fountain shows at 6, 7, 8 and 9pm.
- Where
- The Island, 131 The Island Dr., Pigeon Forge (Gatlinburg)
- Price
- Free admission and parking. Rides cost extra.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
The Island shopping and dining area is covered in lights for the season. Its fountain and 40-foot light-up trees put on a short show every hour in the evening.
Parent tip: Catch the 6pm fountain show with little ones, then eat dinner on site before bedtime.
- Christmas lightsFree Good for toddlers
Winterfest Driving Tour of Lights
- Dates
- Nov 6 - Jan 31 · Nightly, Nov 6, 2026 to Jan 31, 2027
- Where
- The Parkway, starting at the north end of Pigeon Forge (Gatlinburg)
- Price
- No ticket. You view the lights from your car.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No booking
Light displays line the Parkway through Pigeon Forge all season. You see them from your car as you drive through town.
Parent tip: Weeknights are calmer on the Parkway. Save the drive for after dinner so kids can doze on the way back.
- Parades and tree lightingsSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
Winterfest Kickoff and Tree Lighting at The Island
- Dates
- Nov 21 · Sat Nov 21, 2026. Santa from 5pm, free concert at 7pm, tree lighting at 8pm.
- Where
- The Island, 131 The Island Dr., Pigeon Forge (Gatlinburg)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
The Island lights its 40-foot walk-through Christmas tree on opening night of its light season. Santa is there for photos earlier in the evening.
Parent tip: With toddlers, go early for Santa at 5pm. The tree lighting is at 8pm, so it's a late night for little ones.
- Santa visitsFree Good for toddlers
Santa at The Island
- Dates
- Nov 21 - Dec 19 · Sat Nov 21, 5-10pm. Then Fridays and Saturdays, 3-8pm, Nov 27 to Dec 19, 2026.
- Where
- The Island, near The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, Pigeon Forge (Gatlinburg)
- Price
- Free admission and parking. See the site for photo options.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
Santa visits The Island on weekend evenings through mid-December. Kids can meet him near the big Ferris wheel.
Parent tip: Go at 3pm, when Santa's hours start, to beat the evening line.
- Holiday festivalsSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
Gatlinburg Winter Festival and Chili Cook-off
- Dates
- Nov 12 · Thu Nov 12, 2026, 5-9pm
- Where
- The Parkway, from Mountain Mall to Gatlinburg SkyPark (Gatlinburg)
- Price
- Free to attend. Chili tasting is ticketed; see the official site.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up. Buy chili tickets ahead.
A one-night street festival on the Parkway with live music, carolers, a pop-up ice rink and carnival games. Kids can visit Santa at the Christmas tree farm.
Parent tip: Find Santa early in the evening, before the Parkway gets crowded.
- Holiday festivalsFree Good for toddlers
Gatlinburg Festival of Trees
- Dates
- Nov 25-29 · Daily, Nov 25-29, 2026, 10am-7pm
- Where
- Gatlinburg Convention Center, 234 Airport Rd. (Gatlinburg)
- Price
- Free. Donations are welcome.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
Decorated Christmas trees fill the convention center over Thanksgiving week. Money raised goes to local charities, including the Boys & Girls Club.
Parent tip: It's indoors, so it's a good pick for a cold or rainy day. Strollers are easy here.
- Parades and tree lightingsFree Good for toddlers
Sevierville Christmas Parade
- Dates
- Dec 5 · Sat Dec 5, 2026, 11am
- Where
- Historic downtown Sevierville (Gatlinburg)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No tickets
A small-town Christmas parade through downtown Sevierville. It runs in the late morning, which suits nap schedules.
Parent tip: Court Avenue is a good spot to watch from.
- Parades and tree lightingsFree Good for toddlers
Bryson City Christmas Tree Lighting
- Dates
- Nov 28 · Sat Nov 28, 2026, 5-7pm. Tree lighting at 6pm.
- Where
- Swain County Visitor Center, 2 Everett St., Bryson City, NC (Gatlinburg)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A small-town tree lighting with a live nativity, carolers in old-style costumes, and free cocoa and cookies. Kids can write and mail letters to Santa.
Parent tip: The Polar Express also leaves from Bryson City, so the two fit well into one trip that weekend.
- Holiday festivalsFree Good for toddlers
Noon Year's Eve at The Island
- Dates
- Dec 31 · Thu Dec 31, 2026. Kids' concert at 11am, countdown at noon.
- Where
- The Island, 131 The Island Dr., Pigeon Forge (Gatlinburg)
- Price
- Free. Rides cost extra.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A midday New Year's countdown for families with young kids, with a free concert and stage effects at noon. Little ones get the countdown without staying up late.
Parent tip: Stand near the stage for the noon countdown. Head out before the evening crowds arrive.
- Holiday festivalsFree
Gatlinburg New Year's Eve Celebration and Ball Drop
- Dates
- Dec 31 · Thu Dec 31, 2026. Starts 9:30pm; ball drop and fireworks at midnight.
- Where
- Gatlinburg Space Needle, 115 Airport Rd. (Gatlinburg)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- Older kids who can stay up late · No tickets
Gatlinburg rings in the new year with live music, a drone show, a giant LED ball drop from the Space Needle and fireworks at midnight.
Parent tip: Downtown gets very crowded. Families with young kids may prefer the Noon Year's Eve countdown at The Island.
- Christmas marketsFree Good for toddlers
Christmas Village in Philadelphia
- Dates
- Nov 21 - Dec 27 · Sun-Thu noon-8pm, Fri-Sat noon-9pm. Christmas Eve noon-5pm. Closed Nov 23-25 and Dec 25.
- Where
- LOVE Park and City Hall, 1500 Arch St., Center City (Philadelphia)
- Price
- Free to enter. Food, rides and gifts cost extra.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A German-style Christmas market with wooden huts around LOVE Park and City Hall. Expect hot drinks, food, gifts, a carousel, a Ferris wheel and a small kids' train.
Parent tip: Weeknights are calmer than weekends. Kids under 12 ride SEPTA free, which is easier than parking downtown.
- Christmas lightsFree Good for toddlers
Holidays in Franklin Square and the Electrical Spectacle Light Show
- Dates
- Nov 19 - Jan 3 · Nightly 5-9pm, light show every 30 minutes. Closes 8pm Dec 24 and 31. Closed Nov 26, Dec 25 and Jan 1.
- Where
- Franklin Square, 200 N. 6th St., Old City (Philadelphia)
- Price
- Free light show. Carousel and mini golf cost extra.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A small city square with a free light show set to music every half hour. Kids can also ride the carousel or play holiday mini golf.
Parent tip: Arrive just before the hour or half hour so you don't wait long. Santa visits on some evenings; check the square's site for dates.
- Ice skatingFree Good for toddlers
Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest
- Dates
- Nov 27 - Feb 28 · Daily, including holidays. See the official site for hours.
- Where
- Penn's Landing, 101 S. Christopher Columbus Blvd., Delaware River Waterfront (Philadelphia)
- Price
- Free to enter. Skating $5, skate rental $12.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Skating spots are limited. Reserve ahead.
A winter park on the river with an outdoor skating rink, fire pits and lights. You can visit without skating.
Parent tip: Non-skaters can still enjoy the lights and fire pits. Book weekend skating times early.
- Parades and tree lightingsSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
Grand Illumination Celebration at Peddler's Village
- Dates
- Nov 20 · Fri Nov 20, 4:30-10pm. Santa lights the village at 6:15pm.
- Where
- Peddler's Village, Route 202 and Street Road, Lahaska, Bucks County (about 1 hour from Center City) (Philadelphia)
- Price
- Free admission and parking
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up. Arrive by 5:30pm.
Santa and Mrs. Claus switch on the village's holiday lights. Local music and dance groups perform after.
Parent tip: Get there by 5:30pm for a good spot and easier parking.
- Holiday festivalsFree Good for toddlers
Gingerbread Competition and Display at Peddler's Village
- Dates
- Nov 20 - Jan 9 · Daily, hours vary by date. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
- Where
- Visitor and Event Center, Peddler's Village, Lahaska, Bucks County (Philadelphia)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
More than 100 gingerbread houses made by the public fill one room. It makes a quick, free indoor stop.
Parent tip: Go on a weekday. Weekend lines can be long.
- Parades and tree lightingsSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
Holly Jolly Weekend at Peddler's Village
- Dates
- Dec 5-6 · Sat-Sun Dec 5-6, 11am-6pm. Santa parades at noon both days. Lights on at 4:30pm.
- Where
- Peddler's Village, Lahaska, Bucks County (Philadelphia)
- Price
- Free admission and parking
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A free weekend with Santa parades through the village, live music and family activities.
Parent tip: Stay until 4:30pm to see the lights come on, then warm up at the gingerbread display.
- Holiday festivalsFree Good for toddlers
Christmas Day Crossing Reenactment
- Dates
- Dec 25 · Fri Dec 25, noon-3pm. The river crossing is around 1pm.
- Where
- Washington Crossing Historic Park, Washington Crossing, Bucks County (Philadelphia)
- Price
- Free, with advance registration
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Register ahead. Attendance is capped for 2026.
Hundreds of reenactors in Revolutionary War dress row replica boats across the Delaware River. If the river isn't safe, the speeches and ceremony still go on.
Parent tip: Check the park's update by 8am that day. A ticketed First Crossing on Sun Dec 13 is another option ($10 adults, $6 ages 5-11, under 5 free).
- Christmas lightsFree Good for toddlers
Grand Illumination at American Heritage Credit Union
- Dates
- Nov 28 - Jan 1 · Kickoff Sat Nov 28 at 7pm. Lights on nightly from dusk, Nov 30 through New Year's.
- Where
- American Heritage Credit Union, 2060 Red Lion Rd., Northeast Philadelphia (Philadelphia)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up. Free parking on site.
The credit union's grounds glow with a big holiday light display each night. Ben Franklin and Betsy Ross appear at the kickoff.
Parent tip: Enter from Red Lion Road or Jamison Road.
- Holiday festivalsFree Good for toddlers
Nationality Rooms Holiday Open House
- Dates
- Dec 6 · Sun Dec 6, noon-4pm.
- Where
- Cathedral of Learning, University of Pittsburgh, Oakland (Pittsburgh)
- Price
- Free. Food and gifts for sale.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No registration needed
The university's Nationality Rooms, decorated for holidays from around the world, open to visitors. There are crafts, music and food from many cultures.
Parent tip: Bring money for the food and handmade gifts sold in the Commons.
- Christmas lightsFree Good for toddlers
Bellagio Conservatory Holiday Display
- Dates
- Nov 14 - Jan 2 · Daily, Nov 14-Jan 2. The garden closes Nov 8-13 and Jan 3-8 while the displays change.
- Where
- Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, next to the hotel lobby, Center Strip (Las Vegas)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
Bellagio's glass-roofed garden gets a full holiday makeover each winter. It's free, indoors and easy to fit between other Strip stops.
Parent tip: Plan about half an hour. Step outside after dark to catch a fountain show on the lake out front.
- Parades and tree lightingsHoliday festivalsFree Good for toddlers
Henderson WinterFest Tree Lighting and Drone Show
- Dates
- Dec 3 · Thu Dec 3, 5-7:30pm
- Where
- Water Street Plaza, Downtown Henderson (Las Vegas)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No tickets. Arrive early to park.
Henderson lights its city tree with live music, food vendors and a drone show in the sky. It starts the city's month of holiday events.
Parent tip: Free parking is in the Water Street garage at 235 S. Water St. and the City Hall garage. There's no shuttle.
- Parades and tree lightingsFree Good for toddlers
Henderson Electric Light Parade
- Dates
- Dec 4 · Fri Dec 4, 6:30-8:30pm
- Where
- Water Street, between Basic Road and Victory Road, Downtown Henderson (Las Vegas)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No tickets. Arrive early for a curb spot.
Lit-up floats, marching bands and cheer teams roll down Water Street after dark. The parade lasts about 90 minutes.
Parent tip: The city suggests taking a photo of your child when you arrive, in case you get separated. Pets, umbrellas and scooters aren't allowed.
- Holiday festivalsIce skatingSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
Now Snowing in Celebration
- Dates
- Nov 28 - Dec 31 · Nightly from 5:30pm, Nov 28-Dec 31. Santa photos through Dec 24.
- Where
- Celebration Town Center, Celebration (near Disney) (Orlando)
- Price
- Free to attend. Skating $15 for 30 minutes. Wagon rides $7, train rides $10.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
The small town of Celebration makes fake snow fall downtown every night. Add skating, wagon and train rides, and Santa photos.
Parent tip: Public parking in town is free.
- Christmas lightsShows and NutcrackerFree Good for toddlers
Christmas in the Park (Winter Park)
- Dates
- Dec 3 · Thu Dec 3, 6:15-8:30pm
- Where
- Central Park, near Garfield and Park avenues, Winter Park (Orlando)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No tickets. Bring your own seating.
The Morse Museum lights up seven Tiffany stained-glass windows in the park, while a choir and brass group play holiday music.
Parent tip: Blankets and lawn chairs can go down from 4pm. The SunRail station is a short walk away.
- Parades and tree lightingsFree Good for toddlers
Winter Park Christmas Parade
- Dates
- Dec 5 · Sat Dec 5, 9-10:30am
- Where
- Park Avenue, from Cole Avenue south to Pennsylvania Avenue, Winter Park (Orlando)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No tickets
A small-town morning parade with more than 80 groups, from marching bands to scout troops. Santa rides at the end.
Parent tip: A morning parade fits nap schedules better than the evening ones.
- Holiday festivalsSanta visitsChristmas marketsFree Good for toddlers
Frontyard Holiday Festival at Dr. Phillips Center
- Dates
- Nov 27 - Dec 31 · Wed-Fri 5-10pm, Sat-Sun 2-10pm through Dec 13. Then Mon-Fri 5-10pm, Sat-Sun 2-10pm. Closed Dec 14, 15, 24 and 25.
- Where
- Dr. Phillips Center front lawn, 445 S. Magnolia Ave., Downtown Orlando (Orlando)
- Price
- Free admission. Food and s'mores kits for sale.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A free downtown festival with falling snow and a lit tree. Kids get Santa story time and a craft workshop.
Parent tip: Sunday nights have free holiday movies on the lawn. Dec 31 has a family-friendly New Year's Eve party.
- Holiday festivalsSanta visitsHoliday trainsFree Good for toddlers
Holiday Nights Celebration at Sunset Walk
- Dates
- Nov 19 - Dec 25 · Nov 19-22, Nov 27-29, Dec 3-6, Dec 10-13 and Dec 17-25, 6-10pm. Tree lights up at 6:30pm.
- Where
- Promenade at Sunset Walk, 3251 Margaritaville Blvd., Kissimmee (Orlando)
- Price
- Free admission and parking. Train rides $8.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up. Buy ride tickets only through the organiser's Eventbrite.
An outdoor shopping area puts on nightly snow, a 40-foot animated tree, Santa and a small train ride.
Parent tip: Arrive before 6:30pm to see the tree light up.
- Parades and tree lightingsChristmas lightsSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
Light Up Winter Garden
- Dates
- Dec 4 · Fri Dec 4, 6-9pm. Tree lighting at 6:15pm.
- Where
- Winter Garden City Hall, 300 W. Plant St. (Orlando)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No tickets
Winter Garden lights its tree downtown, and Santa stops by. It kicks off a month of free events, including a nightly light show at City Hall on select dates.
Parent tip: The city's Christmas parade is that weekend, but its page lists both Dec 5 and Dec 6. Check before you go.
- Holiday festivalsChristmas marketsFree Good for toddlers
Jingle Eve in Ivanhoe Village
- Dates
- Nov 21 · Sat Nov 21, 4:30-9pm. Fireworks to finish.
- Where
- Orange Avenue, Virginia Drive and Gaston Edwards Park, Ivanhoe Village (near downtown) (Orlando)
- Price
- Free. The wine walk for adults is a paid add-on.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A neighborhood street party with a children's holiday village, local makers, food trucks and music. Fireworks over Lake Ivanhoe end the night.
Parent tip: Head for the kids' village early. The night also has beer gardens, so it gets busier and more grown-up later.
- Parades and tree lightingsFree Good for toddlers
Junior Orange Bowl Miracle on the Mile Holiday Parade
- Dates
- Dec 6 · Sun Dec 6. Check the official site for the start time.
- Where
- Miracle Mile, Coral Gables (Miami)
- Price
- Free to watch from the street. VIP grandstand tickets cost extra.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No tickets needed to watch. Come early for a curb spot.
Coral Gables' yearly holiday parade, now in its 78th year. Marching bands and floats roll down Miracle Mile, and Santa arrives at the end.
Parent tip: Santa comes last, so stay until the end. Bring something to sit on while you wait.
- Holiday festivalsFree Good for toddlers
Caroling in Jackson Square
- Dates
- Dec 20 · Sun Dec 20, 7-8pm
- Where
- Jackson Square, French Quarter (New Orleans)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A Christmas sing-along in Jackson Square, a tradition since 1946. It lasts about an hour.
Parent tip: It's short and free, so it's an easy add-on to an evening in the French Quarter.
- Parades and tree lightingsFree Good for toddlers
Novant Health Thanksgiving Eve Parade
- Dates
- Nov 25 · Wed Nov 25 (the night before Thanksgiving). Steps off at 5:30pm, rain or shine.
- Where
- Tryon Street, Uptown Charlotte (9th Street to Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.) (Charlotte)
- Price
- Watch from the curb with no ticket. VIP seats are sold on the official site.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No booking for curbside. VIP seating is sold ahead.
Charlotte's big holiday parade rolls up Tryon Street on Thanksgiving Eve. This is its 80th year, and it airs live on local TV.
Parent tip: Come early to park and grab a curb spot before 5:30pm. The light rail stops at 7th Street, CTC/Arena and 3rd St./Convention Center are on the route.
- Holiday festivalsChristmas lightsFree Good for toddlers
Christmas at the Library at the Billy Graham Library
- Dates
- Dec 1-23 · Mon-Thu 5:30-9pm, Fri-Sat 5:30-10pm.
- Where
- Billy Graham Library, West Charlotte (Charlotte)
- Price
- Free admission and parking. Carriage rides $12 adults, $6 kids under 12.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Check the reservations link on the official site. Book carriage rides ahead; a few are sold on site.
Free evenings with a live nativity and animals, lights, carolers and 15-minute horse-drawn carriage rides. Kids' story time starts at 5:30pm and repeats every 30 minutes.
Parent tip: A petting zoo runs Thu-Sat, 11am-1pm. Please don't pet the nativity animals in the evening.
- Parades and tree lightingsChristmas lightsHoliday trainsFree Good for toddlers
Kannapolis Tree Lighting and Celebration of Lights
- Dates
- Nov 13-15 · Tree lighting and fireworks Fri Nov 13, 6:30-8:30pm. Celebration of Lights and Winterland Express Sat-Sun Nov 14-15, 5:30-7:30pm.
- Where
- Village Park, 401 Laureate Way, Kannapolis (about 28 miles northeast of Charlotte) (Charlotte)
- Price
- Free to walk the park lights. Winterland Express train rides $2.50.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
Kannapolis starts its season with a tree lighting and fireworks, then a weekend of park lights and rides on the little Winterland Express train.
Parent tip: Pack layers, since it's all outside after dark. The Saturday and Sunday light nights end at 7:30pm, which suits early bedtimes.
- Holiday festivalsSanta visitsChristmas marketsFree Good for toddlers
Holidays in Huntersville
- Dates
- Dec 5 · Sat Dec 5, 3-8pm
- Where
- Veterans Park, Downtown Huntersville, Huntersville (north Mecklenburg) (Charlotte)
- Price
- Free to attend. Food and drinks for sale.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A free town holiday afternoon with kids' rides, ice sculptures, face painting, holiday characters, stage shows and letters and photos with Santa. More than 50 local vendors sell gifts.
Parent tip: Missed Santa? The town's Santa's Village runs Dec 10-12, 5-8pm, inside the American Legion Post 321 building.
- Parades and tree lightingsFree Good for toddlers
Concord Christmas Parade
- Dates
- Nov 21 · Sat Nov 21, 2:30pm
- Where
- Downtown Concord: Church Street N. to Union Street (route over 2 miles), Concord (northeast of Charlotte) (Charlotte)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No booking
Concord's 98th Christmas parade, with bands, floats and walking groups. The city provides one Santa, who rides in the parade.
Parent tip: Floats don't throw candy, so there's no scramble at the curb. An afternoon start works well for nap schedules.
- Parades and tree lightingsSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
Huntersville Town Tree Lighting
- Dates
- Dec 4 · Fri Dec 4, 6-8pm. The tree is lit at 6:30pm.
- Where
- Veterans Park, Downtown Huntersville, Huntersville (north Mecklenburg) (Charlotte)
- Price
- Free to attend
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
The town lights its tree with live music, rides, treats and Santa's Workshop. It wraps up by 8pm.
Parent tip: Come back the next afternoon for Holidays in Huntersville at the same park.
- Santa visitsFree Good for toddlers
Santa at Crown Center's Destination North Pole
- Dates
- Nov 27 - Dec 24 · Nov 27-Dec 24, 2026, during shop hours. Mon-Thu 10am-7pm, Fri-Sat 10am-8pm, Sun noon-6pm. Dec 24 until 5pm.
- Where
- Crown Center Shops, Level 1 (Kansas City)
- Price
- Free visit. Photo packages from $12. Your own photos are free.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No booking mentioned
A free indoor Santa visit at Crown Center. Santa arrives by horse-drawn carriage at 10am on Nov 27 and stays through Christmas Eve.
Parent tip: Pair it with the Ice Terrace or the Coterie's holiday show, which are in the same complex.
- Christmas lightsFree Good for toddlers
Christmas in the Park at Longview Lake
- Dates
- Nov 25 - Dec 31 · Nightly from 5:30pm. Sun-Thu until 10pm, Fri-Sat until 11pm.
- Where
- Starts at Frank White Jr. Softball Complex, 3901 SW Longview Rd., Lee's Summit (southeast metro) (Kansas City)
- Price
- Free. Donations at the exit go to local charities.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Drive up. No tickets.
A free drive-through light show that winds through the Longview Lake campground. This is its 39th year.
Parent tip: Go on a weeknight early in the season to avoid the longest lines.
- Shows and NutcrackerFree Good for toddlers
TubaChristmas at the Kauffman Center
- Dates
- Dec 4-14 · Two dates only: Fri Dec 4 and Mon Dec 14, 2026, at noon
- Where
- Helzberg Hall, Kauffman Center, Downtown / Crossroads (Kansas City)
- Price
- Free, but you need a free ticket
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Reserve free tickets online
Hundreds of tuba and baritone players fill the concert hall to play carols and holiday songs.
Parent tip: A noon start fits around naps, and it's a free way to see the inside of the Kauffman Center.
- Parades and tree lightingsFree Good for toddlers
Dallas Holiday Parade
- Dates
- Dec 5 · Saturday morning, Dec 5. Starts around 8:30-9am and lasts about two hours.
- Where
- Downtown Dallas streets (starts at Commerce and Houston streets) (Dallas)
- Price
- Free to watch. Bleacher seats cost extra.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No tickets needed at the curb. Bleacher seats are sold ahead online.
Dallas's big holiday parade rolls through downtown on the first Saturday in December.
Parent tip: Bring as little as you can, plus chairs or a blanket if you don't buy seats. Bleacher ticket holders can store strollers under the stands.
- Parades and tree lightingsFree Good for toddlers
GM Financial Parade of Lights
- Dates
- Nov 22 · Sunday evening, Nov 22, at 6pm
- Where
- Downtown Fort Worth streets (Dallas)
- Price
- Free to watch. Reserved street seats from about $15.75 for kids and $19.50 for adults.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up for free spots. Reserved seats are sold ahead online.
Fort Worth's lit-up holiday parade kicks off the season downtown on the Sunday before Thanksgiving.
Parent tip: Streets start closing at 3pm. TEXRail park-and-ride lots are mostly free and skip the downtown traffic.
- Christmas lightsIce skatingSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
Christmas in the Square
- Dates
- Nov 20 - Jan 4 · Light show nightly 6-10pm
- Where
- Frisco Square, Main St. and Coleman Blvd. (Dallas)
- Price
- Light show free. Skating, Santa visits and carriage rides cost extra.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up for the light show
A free light show set to music in Frisco's town square. There's also an outdoor ice rink, Santa visits and horse carriage rides.
Parent tip: Tune your car radio to 107.3 FM to hear the music if you're watching from your car.
- Holiday festivalsSanta visitsParades and tree lightingsFree Good for toddlers
Prosper Christmas Festival
- Dates
- Dec 5 · Saturday, Dec 5, 3-7pm. Tree lighting at 7pm.
- Where
- Prosper Town Hall, 250 W. First St., Prosper (north of Frisco) (Dallas)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A free small-town Christmas party with bouncy houses, face painting, balloon artists and free family photos with Santa.
Parent tip: Santa is there 3-6pm, so see him before the 7pm tree lighting.
- Holiday festivalsParades and tree lightingsSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
Holiday Sing-Along & Stroll
- Dates
- Dec 5 · Saturday, Dec 5, 5-8pm
- Where
- Congress Ave. between 9th and 11th streets, Downtown (Austin)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
Downtown's tree lighting and carol sing-along on Congress Avenue, with food trucks, pop-up shops, and Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Parent tip: Grab a free songbook so kids can sing along.
- Christmas lightsParades and tree lightingsFree Good for toddlers
Bastrop River of Lights
- Dates
- Nov 27 - Jan 4 · Nightly from dusk to about 10pm. Tree lighting opens the trail.
- Where
- Fisherman's Park and the June Hill Pape Riverwalk, Bastrop (about 35 minutes east of Austin) (Austin)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A free half-mile light walk along the Colorado River in historic Bastrop, with thousands of lit displays.
Parent tip: Start at the Fisherman's Park entrance with a stroller. The other entrances have stairs.
- Parades and tree lightingsSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
Lost Pines Christmas Parade
- Dates
- Dec 12 · Saturday, Dec 12, at 6pm
- Where
- Historic Downtown Bastrop, Bastrop (about 35 minutes east of Austin) (Austin)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
An evening parade with floats, bands and classic cars. Santa rides at the end on a Bastrop fire truck.
Parent tip: Bring lawn chairs and come early for a good spot. Walk to the River of Lights after.
- Christmas lightsSanta visitsHoliday trainsFree Good for toddlers
Trail of Lights at EmilyAnn Theatre & Gardens
- Dates
- Nov 28 - Dec 26 · Nightly from 6pm, until 9 or 10pm. Dec 24-25 walking trail only.
- Where
- EmilyAnn Theatre & Gardens, 1101 FM 2325, Wimberley (about 50 minutes southwest of Austin) (Austin)
- Price
- Free. A $20 donation per family is suggested.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A walking trail through about 8 acres of lit displays, with free marshmallows and hot cocoa by the yule log. Santa is there most nights.
Parent tip: A small train runs 6-8pm on select nights, but not in rain. Park at the nearby schools and use the lit walkway.
- Parades and tree lightingsFree Good for toddlers
Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade
- Dates
- Dec 12 · Sat Dec 12, 4-9pm
- Where
- Tempe Beach Park, Tempe Town Lake (Phoenix)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
Boats covered in lights cruise across Tempe Town Lake. The night ends with fireworks.
Parent tip: There are Santa photo spots in the park. Fireworks are loud, so pack ear covers for babies and toddlers.
- Parades and tree lightingsSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
Desert Ridge Marketplace Holiday Tree Lighting
- Dates
- Nov 23 · Mon Nov 23, 6-9pm. Tree lighting at 7:15pm.
- Where
- The District at Desert Ridge Marketplace, 21001 N. Tatum Blvd., Desert Ridge (north Phoenix) (Phoenix)
- Price
- Free. Optional VIP tickets cost extra.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
Santa and Mrs. Claus help light the shopping center's tree. Free Santa photos follow from 7:30 to 9pm.
Parent tip: Get in the Santa photo line right after the lighting. It's a free way to get the yearly Santa picture.
- Parades and tree lightingsFree Good for toddlers
Scottsdale Quarter Tree Lighting
- Dates
- Nov 28 · Sat Nov 28, 5:30-7:30pm. Tree lighting at 7pm.
- Where
- The Quad at Scottsdale Quarter, 15191 N. Scottsdale Rd., North Scottsdale (Phoenix)
- Price
- Free. Santa photos cost extra.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A short evening with live music, ballet and toy soldier acts, free kids' crafts and a fake snowfall. The Grinch stops by too.
Parent tip: It wraps up by 7:30pm, which works well for little kids.
- Parades and tree lightingsHoliday festivalsFree Good for toddlers
Chandler Tumbleweed Tree Lighting Ceremony
- Dates
- Dec 5 · Sat Dec 5, 4:30-9pm
- Where
- Downtown Chandler, 3 S. Arizona Ave. (Phoenix)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
Chandler lights its Tumbleweed Tree with music, a light display and a toy drive. The Parade of Lights rolls the same night.
Parent tip: The city asks people to carpool and come early, since parking fills up. Streets close from about 2 to 10pm.
- Santa visitsFree Good for toddlers
Santa's House in Chandler
- Dates
- Dec 5-19 · Sat Dec 5, 4:30-9pm; Sat Dec 12, 9am-1pm; Tue Dec 15, 6-8pm; Sat Dec 19, 9am-1pm.
- Where
- Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, 3 S. Arizona Ave., Downtown Chandler (Phoenix)
- Price
- Free, with free photos
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
Kids can visit Santa, share their wish lists and get a free photo. They can also write letters to Santa.
Parent tip: On Dec 5, Santa's House closes 6:30-8pm during the parade. The Saturday morning times are calmer.
- Parades and tree lightingsHoliday festivalsSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
Apache Junction Holiday Event & Light Parade
- Dates
- Dec 5 · Sat Dec 5. Event 3-6:30pm, tree lighting about 6:30pm, parade at 7pm.
- Where
- Flatiron Park and Apache Trail (between Phelps and Gold Dr.), Apache Junction (far East Valley) (Phoenix)
- Price
- Free. Food and vendors cost extra.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
An afternoon of games, music, inflatables and Santa photos, then a tree lighting and a lit-up parade.
Parent tip: Come for the afternoon play time if bedtime is early. Parking is in the dirt lots east of the park.
- Parades and tree lightingsChristmas marketsHoliday festivalsFree Good for toddlers
Christmas in the Park (Litchfield Park)
- Dates
- Dec 12 · Sat Dec 12. Holiday market 9am-3pm, parade at 10am.
- Where
- Litchfield Square Park, 279 N. La Loma Ave., Litchfield Park (West Valley) (Phoenix)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A small-town festival with a hometown parade, 60-plus market vendors, stage acts and kids' activities.
Parent tip: Browse the market from 9am, then grab a curb spot before the 10am parade.
- Ice skatingHoliday festivalsFree Good for toddlers
Winterfest at Kiener Plaza
- Dates
- Nov 21 - Jan 3 · Thu-Fri 4-8pm, Sat-Sun noon-8pm. Daily noon-8pm Dec 26-Jan 3. Closed Dec 25. Closed to the public Mon-Wed, Nov 23-Dec 23.
- Where
- Kiener Plaza, 500 Chestnut St., Downtown, by the Gateway Arch (St. Louis)
- Price
- Free to attend. Skating is free with your own skates. Rentals $15 adults, $10 ages 3-15.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Skating reservations are strongly encouraged.
A downtown outdoor ice rink with s'mores stations and lights, open for seven weeks.
Parent tip: Kids 3-15 skate free every Friday. Heated igloos can be booked, but they don't allow outside food or drinks.
- Parades and tree lightingsHoliday festivalsFree Good for toddlers
Ameren Missouri Festival of Lights
- Dates
- Nov 21 · Sat Nov 21. Ceremony 5:30pm, tree lighting 5:45pm, drone show 6:30pm, fireworks 7pm.
- Where
- Kiener Plaza, 500 Chestnut St., Downtown, by the Gateway Arch (St. Louis)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
Winterfest's opening night, with a tree lighting, a drone show and fireworks over the downtown rink.
Parent tip: Everything is done by about 7:15pm. Bring ear covers for little ones during the fireworks.
- Holiday festivalsSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
Saint Charles Christmas Traditions
- Dates
- Nov 27 - Dec 24 · Opening day noon-8:30pm. Fri 6-8:30pm, Sat noon-8:30pm, Sun noon-5pm. Wed 6-8:30pm. Dec 24, 11am-2pm.
- Where
- Historic Main Street, St. Charles (about 30 minutes west) (St. Louis)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
Costumed characters, carolers and Santas from around the world stroll the old brick Main Street.
Parent tip: Santa photos are at the KATY Train Depot in Frontier Park on opening day, weekends and Christmas Eve. There's a free sensory-friendly time too.
- Ice skatingHoliday festivalsFree Good for toddlers
Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park
- Dates
- Nov 20 - Jan 3 · Nov 20-Jan 3. Check the official site for rink hours.
- Where
- Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, 600 N. Ashley Dr., Downtown Tampa (Tampa)
- Price
- Free to walk in. Skating $17, or $15 for kids under 12, with skate rental and 75 minutes on the ice.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Book skating times online ahead, or with the QR codes on site.
A real outdoor ice rink in a riverfront park downtown. Walking around the village is free, and there are family events on select days.
Parent tip: Holiday characters visit on select Sundays from 1-4pm. Check the official site for which Sundays.
- Christmas lightsFree Good for toddlers
Holiday Lights in the Gardens at Florida Botanical Gardens
- Dates
- Nov 27 - Jan 3 · Nightly 5:30-9:30pm
- Where
- Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Rd., Largo, Pinellas County (about 22 miles west of Tampa) (Tampa)
- Price
- Free. Suggested donation of $10 per person over 12 at the gate. Free parking.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No tickets. Walk up.
A free walk through the gardens lit up for the holidays, with live entertainment every night and holiday snacks for sale.
Parent tip: The paths work for strollers and wheelchairs. Well-behaved dogs are welcome on a 6-foot leash. Accessible parking is at the Walsingham Road entrance.
- Holiday festivalsChristmas lightsSanta visitsFree Good for toddlers
Season Spectacular at Water Street Tampa
- Dates
- Nov 12 · Thu Nov 12, 5-9pm
- Where
- Water Street Tampa, 971 Water St., Downtown Tampa (Channel District) (Tampa)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
The neighborhood switches on about 500,000 holiday lights for the season. Kids can do crafts, make reindeer food and take photos with Santa.
Parent tip: Cookies and hot chocolate at the Mrs. Claus Cookie Workshop cost extra. It's an early evening, which suits young kids.
- Parades and tree lightingsFree Good for toddlers
Holiday Lighted Boat Parade on the Tampa Riverwalk
- Dates
- Dec 19 · Sat Dec 19, boats set off at 6:15pm.
- Where
- Tampa Riverwalk, Downtown Tampa (Tampa)
- Price
- Free to watch from the Riverwalk. VIP details on the official site.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No booking to watch from the Riverwalk.
Boats covered in holiday lights cruise past downtown on the water. It's Tampa's biggest lighted boat parade.
Parent tip: The parade route starts or ends near Sparkman Wharf, so the Riverwalk around there is a good place to watch.
- Christmas marketsFree Good for toddlers
The Holiday Promenade at Water Street Tampa
- Dates
- Dec 3 · Thu Dec 3, 5-9pm
- Where
- Water Street Tampa, 971 Water St., Downtown Tampa (Channel District) (Tampa)
- Price
- Free to attend. Food, drinks and gifts for sale.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A one-night holiday market with more than 40 local makers, live music, hot cocoa and holiday snacks.
Parent tip: Food vendors are at Raybon Plaza. Go early in the evening if you have little ones in a stroller.
- Parades and tree lightingsFree Good for toddlers
Duke Energy's Light Up the Square
- Dates
- Nov 27 · Fri Nov 27 (the day after Thanksgiving), 6-10pm.
- Where
- Fountain Square, 520 Vine St., along 5th Street to Elm Street Plaza, Downtown (Cincinnati)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No booking.
Downtown's big tree lighting kicks off the season with live performances and fireworks. The fun stretches down 5th Street to the ice rink.
Parent tip: The fireworks are loud. Bring ear covers for babies, or watch from the edge of the crowd.
- Christmas marketsFree Good for toddlers
Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt
- Dates
- Nov 20 - Dec 28 · Thu-Fri 5-9pm, Sat 3-9pm, Sun 3-7pm. Closed Mon-Wed, except Dec 21-23 (3-9pm). Christmas Eve 3-7pm. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
- Where
- Schmidlapp Event Lawn by the Cincinnati Lager House, Smale Riverfront Park, The Banks (riverfront downtown) (Cincinnati)
- Price
- Free entry. Carousel rides and some events cost extra.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up.
A German-style holiday market on the riverfront, with lights, choirs, igloos and a kids' craft and character tent.
Parent tip: The streetcar stops on 2nd Street, a short walk away. The Central Riverfront Garage is the closest parking.
- Parades and tree lightingsHoliday festivalsFree Good for toddlers
Lebanon Horse-Drawn Carriage Parade and Christmas Festival
- Dates
- Dec 5 · Sat Dec 5. Daylight parade at 1pm, candlelight parade at 7pm. Festival and market 10am-8pm.
- Where
- Downtown Lebanon, Lebanon, Warren County (northeast of Cincinnati) (Cincinnati)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · No booking. A shuttle runs; see the parade map on the official site.
Horse-drawn carriages roll through the old downtown twice in one day, once in daylight and once by candlelight. A Christmas market runs all day.
Parent tip: The 1pm daylight parade is easier with little kids. Use the shuttle, since downtown parking fills up.
Dates and prices were checked on each event's official site. They can change, so check the official site before you go.
More Christmas outings for families: all Christmas events by city, the Nutcracker and Christmas shows, Christmas train rides and the best Christmas towns in the USA.
Questions parents ask
What free Christmas events are near me?
We list 180 free Christmas events in 28 US cities for 2026. They include 89 free parades and tree lightings, plus free light shows, Santa visits and holiday markets. Find your city on this page.
When is the Christmas parade near me?
Almost all the town Christmas parades on our list happen between late November and mid-December, and more than half are on a Saturday. Find your city on this page for this year's dates and start times.
How early should you get to a Christmas parade with kids?
Early enough to get a spot in the front row, because small kids can't see from the back. Small town parades are easier, while big city parades fill up much earlier. Bring a blanket or seat pad for the wait.
When is the Rockefeller Center tree lighting in 2026?
The ceremony is Wed, Dec 2, 7-10pm. It's free, but the crowds are huge and it ends late. With little kids, visit on a weekday morning or another evening instead. The tree stays lit into January.
When is the National Christmas Tree lighting?
The lighting ceremony is Thu, Dec 3. Seats for the ceremony are given out by a free lottery, which runs from Oct 28 to Nov 4. After that, the tree site in Washington, DC, is free to visit most evenings into the new year.
Are tree lightings good for toddlers?
Small town tree lightings usually are. They're short, early in the evening and close to home. The big famous ones are packed and late, so with toddlers it's better to see those trees on another night.
Where can I see a lighted boat parade?
We list 15 lighted boat parades, from Washington, DC, and San Diego to Tampa, Seattle and Phoenix. Most are free to watch from the shore. Get there early and dress warmly, since it gets cold by the water.
How can I make Christmas special for kids on a budget?
Keep it simple. Go to a town parade or tree lighting, visit a free Santa, or put the kids in pajamas and drive past the brightest houses with cocoa. Little kids remember the fun, not the price.