The countdown begins, Surrey Tree Lighting Festival
The free event will showcase live performances, Santa meet and greets, thrilling rides, and much more to relish
The City of Surrey is hosting their 13th annual tree lighting festival on Nov. 25 and 26 at the Surrey Civic Plaza. (Submitted)
This month, Surrey is going to light up bigger and better with the city’s 13th annual Surrey Tree Lighting Festival coming back for the holiday season. For the first time, the event will be held over a period of two days, Nov. 25 and 26, at the Surrey Civic Plaza from 12:00 to 8:00 pm. It will be open to everyone at no cost, with numerous festivities to participate in.
“Residents and visitors are invited to enjoy free live entertainment across four stages, take photos with Santa, shop at an expanded Holiday Market, experience amusement rides and light displays,” wrote Jenna Kuzemski, senior marketing and events specialist for the City of Surrey, in an email statement to The Runner.
While the tree will remain on display until January, the tree lighting ceremony will take place on Nov. 25, with festivities continuing through the next day.
The festival has been extended due to strong interest, community support, and positive feedback. This year, it will provide two days of free entertainment, children’s activities, food trucks, rides, and photos with Santa.
Last year, the event attracted a remarkable crowd of over 20,000 attendees, and organizers are hoping for an even larger turnout this year. Kusemski wrote that the festival unites the community through traditions, fosters togetherness, and embraces cultural diversity “while supporting local small businesses and crafters through our Holiday Market.”
“The organizers of the Surrey Tree Lighting Festival hope that attendees will take away a sense of unity, joy, and a deeper connection to their community,” she wrote. “The impact on the community is anticipated to be positive, promoting a sense of togetherness, civic pride, and support for local businesses.”
There will be a special surprise guest on Nov. 26 in addition to the festival activities, Kuzemski wrote.
Kuzemski also encourages residents and visitors to come together for “Unite for Light: Keep Surrey’s Christmas Tree Shining Bright!” which is a call to action that focuses on the importance of community and participation while maintaining the holiday spirit.
For more information about the festival, visit www.surreytreelighting.ca/.
