By Robert Haugh

Santa Clara flips the switch on the holidays this Friday, Dec. 5, when the City’s 114th Holiday Tree Lighting takes over Central Park from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at 909 Kiely Blvd.

This year’s spotlight belongs to longtime resident and super-volunteer Wanda Buck, named the 2025 Honorary Holiday Tree Lighter. Buck has spent decades championing older adults as a leader on the City’s Senior Advisory Commission, at the Senior Center, and through groups like the Santa Clara Women’s League and SCU’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute. She’s also logged years in local classrooms, PTAs, and nonprofits from the Salvation Army to the League of Women Voters.

On the Holiday Stage, presented by Silicon Valley Power, families can expect a steady stream of local talent: the Roberta Jones Junior Theatre Choir, Santa Clara Elite Dance Team, Sean’s Music Factory, Santa Clara Nutcracker, and the Green Feather Jazz Society.

Kids can head to Santa’s Photo Express, where City staff will snap a family photo on your phone between 6 to 8 p.m. Free tickets are first-come, first-served starting at 5:30 p.m., one pose per family. Children walk away with a teddy bear and candy cane while supplies last.

New this year: a Holiday Market packed with local artisans plus a row of food trucks serving Korean BBQ, banh mi, tamales, churros, and more.

Another twist: the giant FIFA World Cup Countdown Clock moves from Santa Clara University to Central Park for the night, offering photo ops and 2026 mega-event info.

Free parking is available at Central Park Pavilion and Patricia Drive, with ADA spaces at all lots and rideshare drop-off at Central Park Library.