Illustration of a santa visit scene (Celebration of Lights)
Christmas Lights

Celebration of Lights

Join the community for the annual Celebration of Lights, marking the start of the holiday season with a magical Christmas Tree Lighting. Enjoy festive treats, live music from local schools, and enchanting activities like a petting zoo and pony rides. Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive by fire truck to light the tree, followed by opportunities for children to share their wishes. The event concludes with a heartwarming live Nativity scene.

What to Expect

Annual Christmas Tree Lighting with Santa and live Nativity

Event Details

Duration

2 hours

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

Great Falls Village

Timed Entry

No

Featured Performers

  • St. Francis Creche
  • King's Kids and Christ the King Choir
  • Village Green Day School
  • Mina's School
  • Great Falls United Methodist Preschool
  • Great Falls Elementary School

Organizer

Celebrate Great Falls Foundation

Food & Drink

Hot cocoa and cookies available

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families and community members

Vibe

Festive, community-oriented, heartwarming

Energy Level

Low

Budget

FREE

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

High

Know Before You Go

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

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive early to enjoy the petting zoo and pony rides before Santa's arrival at 5:00 PM, as these activities close before the event concludes.
  • Bring a comfortable chair or blanket to enjoy the musical performances and the tree lighting ceremony.
  • Letters to Santa are available, so encourage children to write their wishes beforehand or bring them along.
  • Check the weather forecast; in case of inclement weather, the tree will be lit, but other activities may be canceled without rescheduling.
  • Consider carpooling or arriving early, as parking may be limited in the area behind the post office.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Annual Christmas Tree Lighting
  • Santa and Mrs. Claus arrival by fire truck
  • Live Nativity scene
  • Musical performances by local schools
  • Petting zoo and pony rides

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main attraction of the Celebration of Lights?

The main attraction is the annual Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony, led by Santa and Mrs. Claus, along with festive music, treats, and family activities.

Are there activities for children?

Yes, children can enjoy a petting zoo, pony rides, share their holiday wishes with Santa, and write letters to Santa.

What kind of food and drinks are available?

Hot cocoa and cookies are provided by Celebrate Great Falls Foundation sponsors.

What happens if it rains?

In case of inclement weather, the tree will still be lit, but other activities will not be rescheduled.

Is there a cost to attend?

No, the Celebration of Lights is a free community event.

Tags

tree lightingSanta visitsfamily friendlyfree eventcommunity celebrationnativity sceneslive musicchildrens activitiesseasonal activitiesholiday tradition

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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