Surrey’s Tree Lighting Festival brought thousands to Civic Plaza for a 60-foot tree lighting, skating, performances and a two-day holiday market celebration.
Surrey’s Annual Tree Lighting Festival Draws Thousands to Civic Plaza
A Celebration That Brought the City Together
Surrey Civic Plaza welcomed thousands of residents and visitors on Nov. 22–23 as the city hosted its 15th annual Tree Lighting Festival and Holiday Market. The two-day event gathered families, couples and holiday enthusiasts for a free celebration designed to kick off the Christmas spirit. Organizers aimed to create an accessible, community-centered experience—one that succeeded in turning the plaza into a festive hub.
Holiday Attractions That Lit Up the Weekend
The centrepiece of the festival came on Saturday evening at 6:30 p.m., when a towering 60-foot Christmas tree burst into light. Crowds packed the plaza to witness the annual ceremony, a tradition that continues to anchor the event. Surrounding the tree, volunteers, vendors and performers worked together to bring a full slate of seasonal activities to the public.
New Ice Rink Adds Energy to the Event
Surrey’s newly opened outdoor ice skating rink quickly became one of the most popular features. Open for free 40-minute sessions, the rink welcomed skaters of all ages, offering equipment rentals and plenty of space for newcomers and pros alike. The addition served the city’s goal of expanding winter recreation options in a central, accessible location.
Activities and Experiences for All Ages
Younger visitors found a lineup of attractions waiting for them, including amusement rides, craft stations, face painting and a dedicated letters-to-Santa area inside KPU Surrey Campus. Local vendors filled the market tent with handmade goods, art and baked treats, while food trucks set up outside to keep the crowds well-fed.
Performances That Captured the Holiday Spirit
Four stages across Civic Plaza hosted back-to-back performances throughout the weekend, from dance groups and musical ensembles to puppet shows and classic holiday carolers. The programming was designed to keep the festival lively at every corner, giving attendees something to enjoy whether or not they participated in the hands-on activities.
Community Moments Shared Online
Photo spots around the plaza drew long lines as families and friends posed for festive snapshots. Organizers encouraged attendees to share their images on social media for a city-run photo contest, bringing digital engagement into the heart of the in-person celebration. Surrey BC Events later posted that the festival brought “smiles, laughs and holiday cheer,” signaling strong enthusiasm for next year’s edition.
