Downtown Detroit will officially welcome the holiday season when the city’s 22nd Annual Tree Lighting brings live music, skating and more than a million sparkling lights to Campus Martius Park on Friday, Nov. 21. The free, family-friendly celebration is hosted by the Downtown Detroit Partnership and presented by the DTE Foundation.
A night filled with music, skating and holiday magic
Families can expect a full evening of festivities leading up to the moment the city’s massive holiday tree comes to life with more than a million sparkling lights. Live music performances, figure-skating shows and special guest appearances will take over the park throughout the evening. Santa is also expected to make an appearance — adding to the excitement for younger visitors.
Organizers say the official lighting will happen around 7 p.m., followed by a flurry of activity across downtown as lights illuminate the surrounding parks and streets. The event typically draws tens of thousands of people each year, according to ClickOnDetroit.
If you can’t make it in person, WDIV-TV (Local 4) will air the festivities live, giving families a chance to enjoy the tree lighting from home.
What to know before you go
Because this event attracts large crowds, parents will want to plan ahead. Parking downtown can fill up early, so it’s smart to arrive before 5 p.m. Public transportation options, including the QLine and People Mover, will also be running, offering an easier way to get to the park.
Event schedule
- Time: 4-9 p.m.
- Location: Campus Martius Park, 800 Woodward Ave., Downtown Detroit
- Lighting ceremony: Around 7 p.m.
- Cost: Free and open to the public
- Host: Downtown Detroit Partnership
- Presenter: DTE Foundation
The celebration runs from 4-9 p.m. and it’s entirely outdoors, so dressing in warm layers is a must. Campus Martius Park’s ice rink will be open for skating, and nearby food trucks will serve warm treats and hot cocoa throughout the night.
Families looking for a great photo spot will find plenty of festive backdrops around the park, including light displays, holiday décor and the iconic Detroit Christmas tree once it’s lit.
For parents with young children, the earlier hours may be less crowded and easier to navigate before the main lighting moment. The Downtown Detroit Partnership recommends checking its website for parking updates, accessibility information and a full list of activities.
A Detroit tradition that keeps growing
Now in its 22nd year, the Detroit Tree Lighting has become one of the city’s most cherished holiday traditions. It marks the official start of the winter season downtown, with the lighting followed by the opening of the Rink at Campus Martius Park and a lineup of seasonal events running through the new year.
For many families, the tree lighting is more than just flipping a switch — it’s the start of making new memories together. Between the live entertainment, community energy and the glittering skyline, the event captures everything that makes Detroit’s holiday season special.
For more information, visit DowntownDetroit.org.
