Timeless holiday tradition transforms square into winter wonderland
Oakland, Calif. – December 4, 2024: Jack London Square will light up on Saturday, December 7 from 5:45–8 p.m. with the annual free Holiday Tree Lighting Festival. Thousands of lights adorn a 55-foot-tall Shasta Fir tree in the plaza near Plank restaurant and entertainment (98 Broadway). The tree will bring sparkle and good cheer to the holiday season.
“We’re excited and proud that the annual holiday tree lighting event is returning to Jack London Square,” said Port of Oakland Chief Real Estate Officer Jonathan Veach. “The festival highlights how Jack London Square can bring the community together.
KTVU sponsors the event and will emcee. Festivities will include a laser light show, shining multi-color lights in all directions, set to holiday tunes. Simulated snowfall will create the scene of a white Christmas.
There will also be opportunities to snap selfies with a cast of holiday characters, including Santa, Frosty the Snowman, a holiday teddy bear, and The Peppermint Princess.
The holiday event will be complete with music by the non-profit cultural education organization, Oaktown Jazz Workshop Performance Ensemble, and The Lyric Performing Arts Academy. The festival promises a full holiday experience and is free of charge to all revelers.
Adding to the season’s atmosphere on December 7 is the 48th annual Lighted Yacht Parade. The free event features decorated yachts that parade through the estuary. The parade starts at 5:30 p.m. and complements the tree lighting festivities in Jack London Square. Viewers can watch from Jack London Square, and Fortman Marina on the Alameda side of the estuary. The event is a fundraiser for the Alameda County Community Food Bank, and Oakland Firefighters Random Acts.