DELRAY BEACH, FL (BocaNewsNow.com) (Copyright © 2025 MetroDesk Media, LLC) — Join the City of Delray Beach in Downtown Delray for the 100-Ft Christmas Tree Lighting and Yuletide Street Festival on Tuesday, December 2, 2025. The annual celebration runs from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Old School Square, East Atlantic Avenue, and North Swinton Avenue. The main event takes place at 7:00 p.m., when Santa Claus arrives to officially light the city’s famous 100-foot Christmas tree.
Once the massive tree is illuminated, attendees are invited to step inside to explore animated scenes depicting the history of the “Village by the Sea.” The surrounding area will feature Santa’s Holiday Village, offering ice skating, a carousel, mini-golf, and photos with Santa inside his house. With East Atlantic Avenue closed to vehicle traffic, families can stroll through the street to enjoy food, games, and entertainment ranging from a silent disco to strolling carolers. The tree and village attractions will remain open to the public through New Year’s.
The iconic centerpiece of the celebration has a unique history tied to the city’s economic development. The tradition began in 1993 when the Delray Beach Downtown Development Authority purchased a 50-foot tree to attract visitors to a then-struggling downtown. In 1995, the DDA purchased an additional 50 feet to celebrate the City’s Centennial—symbolizing 100 feet for 100 years. While the city has since upgraded to a new tree, it remains a symbol of Downtown Delray’s transformation into a major year-round destination.
Motorists should expect significant traffic impacts on the day of the event. Road closures will be in effect from 12:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., including Swinton Avenue from Atlantic to North 1st Street, and Atlantic Avenue from Swinton to NE/SE 5th Avenue. NE 2nd Avenue from Atlantic to NE 1st Street will also be closed during this time. For vendor inquiries, the City of Delray Beach can be reached at (561) 243-7250.
