Mayor's Tree Lighting Holiday Show

Each year, Springfield Mayor Ken McClure is honored to kick off the holiday season by officially lighting the “Mayor’s Tree” in Park Central Square. This tradition has grown tremendously over the past few years, morphing from primarily a children’s event to one which captures the attention of the entire community and draws spectators from around the region.

In recent years, the event has become an entertaining showcase of performing artists, bringing cultural institutions like Springfield Ballet, and Springfield Little Theatre, to a whole new generation of Springfieldians who may not have access to experience the joy of the arts.

WATCH LIVE on MeTV!

Watch the Mayor’s annual tree lighting on MeTV (channel 33.3) at 7 PM Nov. 23 and rebroadcast on KY3 Christmas week.

48-FOOT HOLIDAY TREE

Find Santa and Mrs. Claus in their Christmas Tree House at the foot of Springfield’s 48-foot tree in the center of Park Central Square. Santa will arrive Nov. 23 and welcome visitors on Friday and Saturday evenings throughout December.

SEE LOCAL TALENT!

Enjoy local, talented performing artists live and via video on the jumbo screen in Park Central Square.

Live: 5:45-7 PM | Video: 7-8:30 PM

New in 2024: Local vendors along Park Central West (just off the square) will sell a variety of items including baked goods, candy, home décor, toys, popcorn and even Christmas trees! Do some holiday shopping, eat something tasty and pet some of the cutest miniature ponies around!

The Prickly Palomino (Baked Goods & Candy)
T & C Bee Co. (Honey)
Twyst Tie Farm (Goat Milk Soaps, Lotion, Lip Balm)
I Love Springfield, MO! (Route 66 Ornaments)
Carson's Nurseries (Christmas Trees & Home Décor)
Race Brothers Farm & Home Supply - Springfield (Toys)

Ozark Mountain Popcorn (Popcorn)
Redemption Ranch Therapy Horses
Clay Dreaming Creations - Jewelry
O’Neill Leather – Leather craft
Recycled Junkie – Wooden Christmas Trees
Scrapbook Supply Co. – Christmas decor

5-8:30 p.m.

HOLIDAY STORYTIME

Children: Join Mayor Ken McClure on stage in Park Central Square for the reading of 'Twas the Night Before Christmas.' Free books while supplies last, courtesy of the Mayor’s Commission for Children and The Musgrave Foundation.

6 PM

SELFIES WITH SANTA
& FREE TREATS

Snap a photo with Santa and Mrs. Claus and enjoy FREE cookies and hot chocolate on Park Central Square!

6:30-8:30 PM while supplies last!

FREE ICE SKATING

Enjoy FREE ice skating at Brightspeed Ice Park and holiday lighting at Jordan Valley Park. Admission and skate rental is free, provided by Brightspeed Fiber Internet. Space is limited.

Saturday, Nov. 23 5-8:30 PM
See the full schedule.

CARRIAGE RIDES

FREE horse-drawn carriage rides courtesy of the Downtown Community Improvement District.

6-9 PM

SGF HOLIDAY EXPRESS

Enjoy a FREE lighted holiday train ride in Park Central Square

6:30-8:30 PM

LIBRARY ACTIVITIES

Displays of Christmas movies, children's books, and cookbooks.
Lego floor for kids to create.
Kids can design an ornament (paper or wooden).
Candy canes and take home holiday craft for the kids (while supplies last).

Park Central Branch | 6-9 PM

WHERE TO PARK?

Check out itsalldowntown.com for free, paid and private parking options.

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Want to be part of this grand holiday tradition?