Many holiday activities are part of the annual Kalamazoo Tree Lighting Ceremony Friday, November 25 | WKZO | All Kalamazoo

KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – The City of Kalamazoo will host its annual tree lighting ceremony on Friday, November 25 at Bronson Park.

Festivities are planned from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., with the illumination of the park around 6 p.m.

Activities will include music and dance performances, crafts provided by the Kalamazoo Valley Museum, reindeer from GG Reindeer Farm, live painting with local artist Patrick Hershberger, a sElfie station, tours with the Kalamazoo Husky Club, a Grinch tent with photos and tours with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Guests will also have the opportunity to share what they are most grateful for this holiday season, with a chance to be featured on the Facebook page of Kzoo Parks.

The Children’s Nature Playscape next to Bronson Park will be open from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. and will be giving out gifts while supplies last. The Holly Jolly Trolley will also operate during and after the event from 5-9 p.m.

Hot chocolate will be available, courtesy of First Presbyterian Church and Kalamazoo Civic Theatre.

Food and refreshments will also be available for purchase at food trucks lined up along the park on South Street, including Teresa’s Kitchen, Coffee Rescue, Weller Barbecue, Incredible Kettle and On the Roll. The nearby Civic Theater will be open as a warm-up station.

The Mayor, City Commissioners, City Manager and Santa Claus will then read “It was the night before Christmas” and flip the switch to light up Bronson Park, officially marking the start of the holiday season in Kalamazoo.