Illustration of a santa visit scene (Christmas Tree Lane Lighting Ceremony & Winterfest)
Christmas Lights

Christmas Tree Lane Lighting Ceremony & Winterfest

Experience a century-old tradition at Altadena's Christmas Tree Lane! Witness the magical Lighting Ceremony as thousands of lights illuminate a mile of deodar trees. Explore Winterfest, a festive marketplace with artisan crafts, food trucks, and live entertainment. This historic, community-driven event offers a dazzling start to the holiday season for all ages.

What to Expect

Historic mile-long deodar tree light display

Event Details

Duration

Lighting Ceremony starts at 6:00 PM; Winterfest runs from 3:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

Altadena

Timed Entry

No

Featured Performers

  • Local choirs
  • Marching bands
  • Musicians
  • Roaming performers

Organizer

Christmas Tree Lane Association (CTLA)

Food & Drink

Food trucks and holiday treats available

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families, holiday enthusiasts, community members

Vibe

Festive, historic, community-oriented, magical

Energy Level

Moderate (walking, standing)

Budget

FREE

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (5/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate (outdoor event)

Location

Christmas Tree Lane
Santa Rosa Avenue
Altadena, CA

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: FREE
  • Pets: No pets allowed (service animals welcome)

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive early for the Lighting Ceremony to secure a good viewing spot, as it's a popular event.
  • Bring cash for vendors at Winterfest, as not all may accept cards.
  • Consider walking or biking to the event to avoid potential parking challenges.
  • Check the weather forecast and dress in layers for the outdoor ceremony and festival.
  • Explore the decorated homes along the Lane after the ceremony for an extended holiday experience.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Annual Lighting Ceremony
  • Winterfest Arts & Crafts Festival
  • Holiday Decorating Contest
  • Photo opportunities with Santa

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Christmas Tree Lane?

Christmas Tree Lane is a historic, mile-long stretch of deodar cedar trees in Altadena, California, adorned with thousands of holiday lights each winter, making it the oldest large-scale outdoor Christmas lighting spectacle in the United States.

Who organizes the lighting of Christmas Tree Lane?

The Christmas Tree Lane Association (CTLA), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, all-volunteer organization, is responsible for lighting the Lane, maintaining the trees, and organizing community events.

Is there a cost to attend the Lighting Ceremony or Winterfest?

No, both the Annual Lighting Ceremony and Winterfest are free and open to the public.

What kind of vendors can I expect at Winterfest?

Winterfest features artisan and craft vendors selling handmade goods, as well as food trucks offering various holiday treats.

How can I support Christmas Tree Lane?

You can support Christmas Tree Lane by becoming a member of CTLA, donating, sponsoring an event, or volunteering your time.

Tags

holiday light displayscommunity celebrationfamily friendlySanta visitsfestive foodlive musicartisanal productsholiday traditionfree event

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Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Sep 20, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team