DELRAY BEACH, FL (Boca Post) (Copyright © 2025) — The holidays in Delray Beach officially begin Tuesday, December 2nd, when the city lights its famous 100-foot Christmas tree during the annual Yuletide Street Festival at Old School Square.
From 6 to 9 p.m., families can gather downtown to watch Santa flip the switch at 7 p.m., illuminating the massive tree that has become a symbol of Delray’s holiday spirit. Once the lights go up, visitors can step inside the tree to explore animated holiday scenes and learn about the city’s “Village by the Sea” roots.
Santa’s Holiday Village will return this year with a full lineup of attractions including ice skating, a carousel, mini golf, and Santa’s own house for photos and visits. Atlantic Avenue will close to vehicle traffic between Swinton Avenue and NE/SE 5th Avenue, allowing visitors to walk freely through the heart of downtown for food, games, and live entertainment.
The festival will also feature live music, carolers, and even a silent disco for those who want to dance under the lights. “It’s a celebration of everything that makes Delray special — community, family, and the joy of the season,” organizers said in the city’s event announcement.
From Roots to Riches: The Tree’s Legacy
The 100-foot Christmas tree traces its roots back to 1993, when the Delray Beach Downtown Development Authority purchased a 50-foot tree to help bring new energy to a struggling downtown. Two years later, as the city celebrated its centennial, the DDA doubled the height — 100 feet for 100 years.
That decision marked a turning point. Downtown Delray has since transformed into a year-round destination, with the tree lighting now serving as both a community tradition and a symbol of the city’s growth. “So much history and love in our Village by the Sea,” the city noted in its event materials.
Midweek Holiday Concert
Holiday festivities continue on Wednesday, December 17th, when saxophonist Patrick Lamb performs a live “Charlie Brown Christmas” concert at Old School Square. The event pairs a screening of the classic Peanuts film with a live band and a local children’s choir — a mix of nostalgia and hometown talent that fits right under the big tree.
Event Details:
What: Delray Beach 100-Ft Christmas Tree Lighting & Yuletide Street Festival
When: Tuesday, December 2, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. (Tree lighting at 7:00 p.m.)
Where: Old School Square, East Atlantic Avenue & North Swinton Avenue
Contact: Downtown Delray Beach, (561) 243-7250
Swinton Avenue from Atlantic to North 1st Street and Atlantic Avenue from Swinton to NE/SE 5th Avenue will be closed from 12 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., along with NE 2nd Avenue between Atlantic and NE 1st Street.
Visitors can enjoy the tree and Holiday Village through New Year’s Day. For more information on hours and activities, visit the City of Delray Beach’s event page or call (561) 243-7250.
