Santa to Appear at City Holiday Tree Lighting Friday Night

Pasadena Mayor Victor M. Gordo (left) with Ceremony Host Rodney Wallace at the 2022 Tree Lighting Ceremony. At right, Santa Claus put in a special appearance and greeted children of all ages. [City of Pasadena Parks, Recreation and Community Services Dept.]

Pasadena residents will have a chance to kick off the holiday season with Santa Claus himself at the Mayor’s Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony this Friday, transforming City Hall into a festive celebration of community and giving.

The free event, scheduled for December 6 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Pasadena City Hall, 100 N. Garfield Ave., will feature local entertainment, children’s activities, and the ceremonial lighting of the City’s official holiday tree by Mayor Victor M. Gordo at 6 p.m.

The lights have been strung artfully, the ornaments have been hung with care, and the star has been set in the City Hall rotunda.

The evening promises a diverse lineup of local talent, including performances by Afterschool Adventures Cheer & Dance, Norma Coombs Choir, Rosebud Academy Choir, W.O.W.! On the Move, Outspoken Dance Company, and Elements Dance Space.

Children can participate in craft activities provided by the Armory Center for the Arts, while Starbucks will serve light refreshments.

Adding to the holiday spirit, the Pasadena Fire Department will collect donations for their annual Spark of Love Toy Drive. Attendees are encouraged to bring new, unwrapped toys, sports equipment, or gift cards to support local underserved children and teens.

The event will feature several photo opportunities throughout City Hall, courtesy of Pasadena Management Association and Oh! Snaptastic! Photo Booth by Girl Squad Media, allowing families to capture their moments with Santa and the illuminated tree.

For those planning to attend, free parking will be available at the Central Library Parking Lot on a first-come, first-served basis. Officials recommend arriving early to secure parking and optimal viewing spots for the tree lighting ceremony.

Accessibility accommodations can be arranged by contacting (626) 744-7311 or CSC@cityofpasadena.net, with a recommended 72-hour advance notice to ensure availability.

The City encourages attendees to share their experience on social media by tagging the City’s Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter accounts with their tree lighting and Santa photos.