Special to the Transcript
Under the glow of thousands of twinkling lights, Winthrop’s French Square will transform into a winter wonderland on Friday, November 28, 2025, for the 34th Annual Holiday Tree Lighting. This year’s theme, “Small Town, Big Lights,” celebrates the warmth and spirit of a close-knit community shining bright together.
The festivities begin at 3:00 PM and promise an afternoon and evening filled with live entertainment, local vendors, holiday treats, and a visit from Santa Claus himself. Santa has confirmed his flight into Logan Airport just in time for the celebration, where the Winthrop Fire Department will greet him on the runway and escort him to French Square.
With a sprinkle of holiday magic, Santa will lead the countdown to illuminate the holiday tree—officially marking the start of the season. After the lighting, Santa will be available to take early-season requests for Christmas wishes, giving children and families a chance to share their holiday hopes.
“This year’s celebration is going to be special,” said Marc Chapdelaine, President of the Winthrop Chamber of Commerce. “The theme ‘Small Town, Big Lights’ perfectly captures the spirit of Winthrop. We’ve added new features and performances that will make this event unforgettable. It’s more than just a tree lighting—it’s a chance for families, friends, and local businesses to come together and celebrate what makes Winthrop such a wonderful community.”
The celebration will feature a karate demonstration by students from Cervizzi’s Martial Arts, followed by music and dance performances from the Winthrop School of Performing Arts and Jessica Gordon’s School for the Performing Arts. Victorian carolers will stroll through the square, filling the air with timeless holiday melodies, and horse-drawn carriage rides will be available at no cost to guests. Local vendors will open at 3:00 PM, offering crafts, collectibles, and seasonal treats.
Nearby restaurants are ready to welcome guests for dinner after the festivities, while the Winthrop Book Depot will stay open late, serving hot chocolate and holiday treats to keep everyone warm and cheerful. Café Delite will offer its signature favorites for a cozy winter evening, and adding to the excitement, French Square’s all-new Italian Bakery will make its debut with a tempting selection of fresh pastries, rich coffees, and steaming hot chocolate—an irresistible stop for anyone craving holiday flavors. As the celebration moves indoors, local favorites like La Siesta, Hong Kong Dragon, and Thai Taki are gearing up for a busy night, ready to welcome families sharing stories of Santa’s arrival.
Meanwhile, Black Strap BBQ is planning something special: the restaurant has applied for a one-day sidewalk permit to create an outdoor space where adult guests can relax and be merry. To make the evening even more memorable, Black Strap will feature exclusive off-menu items crafted just for this event, offering a festive twist to kick off the holiday season. “It’s going to be awesome,” said Chris Thompson, owner of Black Strap BBQ. “The Holiday Lighting is my favorite night of the year.”
The size and scope of this year’s celebration would not be possible without the generous support of the Winthrop Foundation. “The holiday tree lighting has been such an important long-standing tradition for Winthrop,” said Russ Sanford, Chairman of the Winthrop Foundation. “Seeing the Square come alive with families, laughter, and music is a reminder of what makes Winthrop so special.”
With live performances, refreshments, carriage rides, and Santa’s arrival, this year’s Small Town, Big Lights Holiday Tree Lighting promises to be an unforgettable evening for all ages. Bundle up, bring your holiday spirit, and join us in French Square on Friday, November 28, 2025, for a night of holiday magic and memories.