The Downtown Traverse City Association (DTCA) is expanding its holiday kickoff into a two-day community celebration called Light Up Downtown. The 2026 holiday weekend will feature the Traverse City Tree Lighting on Friday, November 20, followed by the Traverse City Light Parade on Saturday, November 21.

"What began years ago as a cozy downtown tree lighting has grown into a regional landmark event, drawing crowds of nearly 20,000 people to Front Street for the holiday festivities," according to the DTCA. "To ensure a safe, sustainable, and enjoyable experience for all ages, the DTCA is dividing the activities into two evenings while partnering with the Festival Foundation (producers of the National Cherry Festival) to manage the Traverse City Light Parade."

The new event schedule is as follows:

Friday, November 20 – Traverse City Tree Lighting: Festivities begin early evening with event activations like community sing-alongs, treat stations, merchant open houses & events, Santa’s official arrival, and the lighting of the downtown holiday tree at Cass and Front Streets. Visits at Santa’s House will open immediately following the ceremony.

Saturday, November 21 – Traverse City Light Parade: Produced in partnership with the Festival Foundation, Front Street will light up as local nonprofit organizations, municipalities, and commercial businesses present custom floats, musical acts, and festive vehicles lighting up the heart of downtown.

"Partnering with the Festival Foundation brings world-class parade operations and production expertise to Front Street," says DDA Director of Events & Engagement Sara Klebba. "We’re owning our respective lanes to deliver a seamless, safe, magical weekend for everyone.”