Annual Lighting of the Square

Kick Off the Holiday Season in Woodstock!

Visit the beautiful and historic Square on the Friday after Thanksgiving and help the City of Woodstock welcome the official start of the holiday season. With the flip of a switch, tens of thousands of twinkling lights illuminate the Park trees and Square buildings, bringing the magic of Christmas to life in a Victorian-era setting.

The lighting ceremony begins at 7:00 PM in the Park-in-the-Square, but the fun starts earlier! From 4:00–8:00 PM, enjoy holiday carolers, children’s activities, charitable opportunities, shopping at downtown boutiques, and dining at local restaurants. Best of all, Santa makes a grand entrance before the ceremony to greet children and pose for cherished photos.

Don’t miss the opening of the annual Opera House Christmas Tree Walk, featuring dozens of beautifully decorated trees by local organizations and the Old Courthouse Center Gingerbread House Walk—a festive treat for all ages!