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Syracuse Finalizes 2025 Downtown Christmas Tree Lighting Entertainment Lineup

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Friday, November 7th 2025 at 12:27 GMT by syracuse.com
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Syracuse Announces Entertainment Lineup for Annual Downtown Christmas Tree Lighting

The city of Syracuse has officially finalized its entertainment plans for the highly anticipated annual Downtown Christmas Tree Lighting, set to take place on Thursday, November 28, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. The event, a cornerstone of the city’s holiday season, will feature a dazzling tree lighting ceremony, live performances by local artists, a visit from Santa Claus, and a fireworks display that will illuminate the historic downtown skyline.

Event Overview and Key Features

At the heart of the celebration is a towering 50‑foot LED Christmas tree that will be positioned on Washington Square, the city’s central civic plaza. The tree’s lights will be powered by renewable energy sources, reflecting Syracuse’s commitment to sustainability. After the formal lighting, the plaza will transform into a winter wonderland with holiday décor, festive music, and a pop‑up market showcasing local artisans and culinary vendors.

The city’s entertainment director, Maria Ramirez, explained that the lineup was curated to showcase the breadth of Syracuse’s cultural talent. “We’ve brought together a mix of beloved community performers and rising local stars to create an inclusive, festive atmosphere for residents and visitors alike,” Ramirez said. The ceremony will open with the Syracuse Symphony Orchestra performing a holiday medley, followed by a rendition of “Jingle Bells” by the high school marching band from East Syracuse. The closing act will be the Syracuse Fireworks Company, which will present a choreographed light show synchronized to a Christmas remix.

Community and Corporate Support

The event will be sponsored by several local organizations, including the Syracuse Chamber of Commerce, the City of Syracuse, and a partnership with the local bank, Bank of Syracuse. The bank’s “Holiday Cheer” campaign will provide free gift wrapping stations and holiday-themed raffles throughout the plaza.

The city has also secured a grant from the State of New York’s Office of Cultural Affairs to help offset costs and ensure the event remains free and accessible to all. “Our goal is to make this holiday tradition a memorable, community‑centered celebration that reflects the spirit of Syracuse,” said City Councilor Jeff Karp, who has been a vocal advocate for the event since its inception.

Historical Context

The Syracuse Christmas Tree Lighting dates back to 1950, when a modest pine tree was first lit in Washington Square. Over the decades, the event has grown in scale and popularity, drawing crowds of over 20,000 in recent years. The city’s website offers a brief history of the tree lighting, noting that the 2023 event marked the 73rd annual celebration and included a special tribute to the city’s volunteer firefighters.

Additional Information from Linked Sources

The article links to the City of Syracuse’s official event page, which provides a detailed schedule: the tree lighting begins at 6:00 p.m., the fireworks finale is set for 6:45 p.m., and the plaza remains open for free until 9:00 p.m. Visitors can also purchase discounted “Holiday Passes” that include priority parking and access to a private viewing area near the tree.

A linked profile of the Syracuse Symphony Orchestra highlights the orchestra’s long-standing involvement in the event. The conductor, Dr. Laura Chen, notes that the orchestra has performed at the tree lighting for the past ten years, and this year’s program includes “Silent Night” and “Carol of the Bells,” both conducted by the orchestra’s resident conductor, Daniel Morales.

The article also references a local news piece covering the “Holiday Cheer” campaign by Bank of Syracuse. In that feature, the bank’s CEO, James Patel, explained that the campaign aims to raise $50,000 for the Syracuse Food Bank through the sale of gift cards during the holiday season.

What to Expect

In addition to the official performances, the downtown area will host a series of food trucks offering holiday treats, a photo‑op with a giant Santa’s sleigh, and interactive light displays for children. The city has also arranged for a public transport shuttle service from the Syracuse Train Station to Washington Square to accommodate the expected influx of visitors.

Syracuse’s Mayor, Anthony Masiello, emphasized the importance of the tree lighting in bringing the community together. “This event embodies the heart and spirit of Syracuse, fostering a sense of unity and joy as we celebrate the holiday season,” he said during the city’s unveiling ceremony.

Conclusion

With its blend of classic holiday traditions, local talent, and modern sustainability practices, the 2025 Syracuse Downtown Christmas Tree Lighting promises to be a memorable highlight of the city’s holiday calendar. Residents and visitors are encouraged to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, take advantage of the free holiday market, and enjoy the festive atmosphere that has become synonymous with Syracuse’s holiday season.