Mayor’s tree lighting returns to Lancaster City on Black Friday

LANCASTER, Pa., Nov. 21, 2025 – The City of Lancaster’s annual Mayor’s Tree Lighting is set for Friday, Nov. 28, from 5 to 8 p.m. in Penn Square, bringing holiday cheer to the city with music, performances and family-friendly activities.

The evening will feature live performances from the Fulton Theatre, with highlights from “Elf: The Musical,” “It’s a Wonderful Life” and “The Nutcracker: The Musical,” followed by live music from the Flannel Covers and Street Beans.

Santa Claus will make an appearance, arriving via firetruck, followed by the lighting of the city’s Christmas tree. This year marks Mayor Danene Sorace’s final tree-lighting ceremony as mayor.

The celebration will continue with a dance party featuring Cylo and a parranda-style musical procession leading the crowd to Southern Market.

Lancaster Central Market will stay open late from 5 to 8 p.m., both indoors and outdoors. Visitors can explore a variety of local vendors, including Callaloo, Christina’s Criollo, Shady Maple, Lancaster County Coffee Roasters, Empanada Gourmet, Pretzels on Market and more. Guests can also enjoy a family-friendly activity inside while supplies last. Lori’s Lattes will also be on-site serving warm drinks.

In addition to the tree lighting, Friday is opening day for the Outdoor Winter Market at Ewell Plaza. The market will be open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., offering holiday shoppers another festive way to support local businesses.

For more information about the Mayor’s Tree Lighting and the Outdoor Winter Market at Ewell Plaza, go to visitlancastercity.com.