Nutcracker Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Village in Downtown Anaheim

12/24/2023

Last date night before the big sleigh ride, Go DUCKS!

12/24/2023

12/23/2023

Standing room only to view this adorable contest… Wonderful to have it hosted at our event again this year!

12/03/2023

It’s past midnight and today is the big day!
Santa and Mrs. Claus are feeding their reindeer and packing their sleigh…

Visiting Anaheim is one of their favorite places to go - they love the holiday village and of course the big show…

Join them for pictures, stories, and lighting the tree - 6:00pm at Anaheim City Hall is the place to be…

🎄☃️❄️🎅🤶 SEE YOU THERE! 🎅🤶❄️☃️🌲

12/03/2023

Once the tree is shining bright with the lights all a glow… The magic will continue with an entertaining show.

Anaheim Ballet will take center stage to dance for our guests…. Having our city’s resident ballet company preforming annually is simply the best!

Join us at the 29th Annual Nutcracker Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Village in Downtown Anaheim this Sunday, December 3rd.

🎄The Tree Lighting is at 6:00pm🎄
Watch from Anaheim Blvd. in front of Anaheim City Hall. 200 S. Anaheim Blvd. - Take your seat early to watch the procession to the tree and spectacular entertainment!

12/02/2023

Shopping for unique treasures, that special gift, delicious food, sweet treats and more to see? The “Holiday Village” tomorrow is the place you want to be!

🎁🌲🍭🎁”Holiday Village” opens at 12:00pm🎁🍭🌲🎁

Join us at the 29th Annual Nutcracker Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Village in Downtown Anaheim on Sunday, December 3rd.

There will be lively singing & dancing to entertain all at the children’s musical stage until 5:00pm.

The “Candy Canine Dog Costume Contest” registration opens at 12:30 PM - Contest at 1 PM - Come see adorable pups dressed up to show off there “Holiday Spirit” (East end of Center Street)

The line to take pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus starts forming at 2:30 PM. Bring your camera or phone to take a picture, write a postcard to Santa to drop in his mailbox, or just stop by to say hello. Photo opportunities - 3 to 5 PM.
(The line may shut down a little early to ensure everyone in line can visit Mr. and Mrs. Claus before they depart at 5 PM to prepare for the procession to the tree lighting)

The “Nutcracker Express” will offer free train rides from 12 PM to 5 PM. Look for the “train ride stop sign” on the east end of Center Street - closer to Anaheim Boulevard to embark on your journey… There is a new route this year!

Free crafts, delicious treats, fabulous food, shopping for unique treasures for yourself, start on that holiday gift list and more - all happening throughout the holiday village!

We look forward to having you spend the day with us. Continue your adventure by taking a seat on Anaheim Boulevard to watch the lighting of the magical tree and a spectacular show… Don’t miss this annual tradition!

12/02/2023

The 6th Annual Candy Canine Costume Contest is here - check in at 12:30 PM with the judging at 1:00…

Small. Large, & Multiple Themed Dogs will share their “Holiday Spirit” and compete just for fun…

This entertaining show is always 🐾PAWSOME 🐾

Join us at the 29th Annual Nutcracker Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Village in Downtown Anaheim this Sunday, December 3rd.

🌲🎅🐾 The Holiday Village Opens at 12 PM🐾🎅🌲
There will be lively singing & dancing to entertain all at the children’s musical stage until 5:00pm.

The “Candy Canine Dog Costume Contest” registration opens at 12:30 PM - Contest at 1 PM - Come see adorable pups dressed up to show off there “Holiday Spirit” (East end of Center Street)

The line to take pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus starts forming at 2:30 PM. Bring your camera or phone to take a picture, write a postcard to Santa to drop in his mailbox, or just stop by to say hello. Photo opportunities - 3 to 5 PM.
(The line may shut down a little early to ensure everyone in line can visit Mr. and Mrs. Claus before they depart at 5 PM to prepare for the procession to the tree lighting)

The “Nutcracker Express” will offer free train rides from 12 PM to 5 PM. Look for the “train ride stop sign” on the east end of Center Street - closer to Anaheim Boulevard to embark on your journey… There is a new route this year!

Free crafts, delicious treats, fabulous food, shopping for unique treasures for yourself, start on that holiday gift list and more - all happening throughout the holiday village!

We look forward to having you spend the day with us. Continue your adventure by taking a seat on Anaheim Boulevard to watch the lighting of the magical tree and a spectacular show… Don’t miss this annual tradition!

12/01/2023

We express immense gratitude to the sponsors that have made this event a reality. Their generous support and commitment to the 29th Annual Nutcracker Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Village in Downtown Anaheim is invaluable!

🎄ACKNOWLEDGING OUR 2023 EVENT SPONSORS🎄

11/30/2023

Chugga, Chugga, Choo, Choo, is a familiar sound… the “Nutcracker Express” is back in town!

All aboard for a free train ride along a winding route.. get in line at the train stop so you don’t miss out!

🚂Train Hours 12-5:00PM - East end of Center Street🚂

Join us at the 29th Annual Nutcracker Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Village in Downtown Anaheim this Sunday, December 3rd.

🌲🎅🐾 The Holiday Village Opens at 12 PM🐾🎅🌲
There will be lively singing & dancing to entertain all at the children’s musical stage until 5:00pm.

The “Candy Canine Dog Costume Contest” registration opens at 12:30 PM - Contest at 1 PM - Come see adorable pups dressed up to show off there “Holiday Spirit” (East end of Center Street)

The line to take pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus starts forming at 2:30 PM. Bring your camera or phone to take a picture, write a postcard to Santa to drop in his mailbox, or just stop by to say hello. Photo opportunities - 3 to 5 PM.
(The line may shut down a little early to ensure everyone in line can visit Mr. and Mrs. Claus before they depart at 5 PM to prepare for the procession to the tree lighting)

The “Nutcracker Express” will offer free train rides from 12 PM to 5 PM. Look for the “train ride stop sign” on the east end of Center Street - closer to Anaheim Boulevard to embark on your journey… There is a new route this year!

Free crafts, delicious treats, fabulous food, shopping for unique treasures for yourself, start on that holiday gift list and more - all happening throughout the holiday village!

We look forward to having you spend the day with us. Continue your adventure by taking a seat on Anaheim Boulevard to watch the lighting of the magical tree and a spectacular show… Don’t miss this annual tradition!



11/30/2023

Once the tree is shining bright with the lights all a glow… The magic will continue with an entertaining show.

We are thrilled to have Anaheim’s rising star Sean Oliu setting the holiday mood in song… We’re certain he’ll have the crowd singing along!

Join us at the 29th Annual Nutcracker Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Village in Downtown Anaheim this Sunday, December 3rd.

🎄The Tree Lighting is at 6:00pm🎄
Watch from Anaheim Blvd. in front of Anaheim City Hall. 200 S. Anaheim Blvd. - Take your seat early to watch the procession to the tree and spectacular entertainment!

11/27/2023

Are you ready City of Anaheim- Let’s start the countdown…
One week from today we’ll have some VIP visitors in town!

Directly from the North Pole they’ll be heading this way…
Santa & Mrs. Claus will be here for this magical day!

Join us at the 29th Annual Nutcracker Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Village in Downtown Anaheim on Sunday, December 3rd. The tradition continues… See you there!

11/19/2023

The 6th Annual 🐾Candy Canine Costume Contest 🐾 will feature pups & pet parents showing off their “Holiday Spirit” during the Nutcracker Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Village in Downtown Anaheim - Join the fun - It promises to be another dog-gone great show! 🎄🐾🎄

Sponsored by: Cottage Pet Hospital
Hosted by: The Miss Anaheim Beautiful Scholarship Program
Prizes provided by: Anaheim Feed & Pet Supply

East end of CENTER STREET ANAHEIM - Registration begins at 12:30pm with the Contest at 1:00pm



11/04/2023

Join us for the 29th Annual Nutcracker Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Village in Downtown Anaheim!

12:00pm - The FREE Holiday Village opens on Center Street Promenade. Enjoy lively performances at the Children’s Musical Stage, fun crafts, delicious food, and one of a kind shopping with creative artisans throughout the day!

Additional Highlights include:
*Train Rides - look for posted times and location

*1:00pm - 6th Annual “Candy Canine Dog Costume Contest” - Check your pups in starting at 12:30 PM to win great prizes and share their creative holiday spirit! Stop by to enjoy the adorable pups! - (Contest and registration  East end of Center Street - closer to Anaheim Boulevard)

* 2:45 PM - update from the north pole – Santa & Mrs. Claus are scheduled to arrive! (East end of Center Street)

* 3:00-5:00pm - Visits and photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus - remember to bring your cell phone or camera for photo opportunities. (Line starts forming at 2:30pm and will close to make sure everyone in line can visit before 5:00pm)

*5:45pm - Santa and Mrs. Claus will lead a processional to City Hall for the tree lighting.

Make sure to take your seats early to enjoy the show!

*6:00pm - Spectacular tree lighting at Anaheim City Hall 
🎄NEW LOCATION 🎄

Followed by performances including Sean Oliu, Anaheim Ballet, the combined choirs of the Anaheim Union High School District & more… See you there!

12/05/2022

Our sincere thanks to the individuals, businesses and organizations that supported us with their monetary and in-kind donations. Their support, along with the creativity and dedication of our volunteers, made for yet another wonderful celebration of the annual Anaheim Nutcracker Christmas Tree Lighting and Holiday Village.

12/03/2022

Our countdown is over - Tomorrow is the big day!
Santa and Mrs. Claus are feeding their reindeer and packing their sleigh…

Visiting Anaheim is one of their favorite places to go - they love the holiday village and of course the big show…

Join them for pictures, stories, and lighting the tree - 6:00pm at the Feldhaus Circle is the place to be…

🎄☃️❄️🎅🤶 SEE YOU THERE! 🎅🤶❄️☃️🌲




12/02/2022

Our countdown is almost finished with just two days to go - Who’s getting excited to join us for a spectacular show?

Sean Oliu started at the children’s musical showcase, graduated to the main stage in 2015 and has performed annually every year since then - We are thrilled to announce he’ll be joining us to entertain you again! 🎶

Follow our countdown to the 28th Annual Nutcracker Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Village in Downtown Anaheim - We are sharing a few event highlights and look forward to having you join us Saturday, December 3rd, 2022!

*Remember to bring your cell phone or camera to take pictures with Santa & Mrs. Claus. It’s a wonderful opportunity for you to snap event highlights and memories!

12/01/2022

The days continue to countdown and we’re down to three - Shop during the holiday village… there is so much to see!

Purchase unique gifts, one of a kind treasures, sweet treats and more - find something for everyone on your shopping list with so much to explore!

Follow our countdown to the 28th Annual Nutcracker Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Village in Downtown Anaheim - We are sharing a few event highlights and look forward to having you join us Saturday, December 3rd, 2022!

*Remember to bring your cell phone or camera to take pictures with Santa & Mrs. Claus. It’s a wonderful opportunity for you to snap event highlights and memories!

11/30/2022

The countdown continues with only four days to go - Stop by the children’s musical stage for a magnificent show…

Our youngest performers have been practicing for their time to shine - they will capture your hearts and you’ll have a great time!  

Follow our countdown to the 28th Annual Nutcracker Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Village in Downtown Anaheim - We are sharing a few event highlights and look forward to having you join us Saturday, December 3rd, 2022!

*Remember to bring your cell phone or camera to take pictures with Santa & Mrs. Claus. It’s a wonderful opportunity for you to snap event highlights and memories!

11/29/2022

In five days you’ll see them leaping through the air - It wouldn’t be “Nutcracker” with out Anaheim Ballet dancing there…

Original choreograph of a holiday classic, spectacular costumes, talented dancers, and more - We are thrilled to watch this year to see what’s in store!

Follow our countdown to the 28th Annual Nutcracker Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Village in Downtown Anaheim - We are sharing a few event highlights and look forward to having you join us Saturday, December 3rd, 2022!

*Remember to bring your cell phone or camera to take pictures with Santa & Mrs. Claus. It’s a wonderful opportunity for you to snap event highlights and memories!

11/28/2022

Our countdown is only six days away - Free painting, and crafting… Come join us to play!

Take your own pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus too - During the tree lighting they’ll read a special story for you!

Follow our countdown to the 28th Annual Nutcracker Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Village in Downtown Anaheim - We are sharing a few event highlights and look forward to having you join us Saturday, December 3rd, 2022!

*Remember to bring your cell phone or camera to take pictures with Santa & Mrs. Claus. It’s a wonderful opportunity for you to snap event highlights and memories!

11/27/2022

The countdown is on seven and we’re moving along… Soon heavenly voices will unite together in song! 🎶

The combined choirs of the Anaheim Union High School District will fill the grandstands to entertain you…. Their lively performance will have you singing along too! 🎶

Follow our countdown to the 28th Annual Nutcracker Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Village in Downtown Anaheim - We are sharing a few event highlights and look forward to having you join us Saturday, December 3rd, 2022!

*Remember to bring your cell phone or camera to take pictures with Santa & Mrs. Claus. It’s a wonderful opportunity for you to snap event highlights and memories!

11/26/2022

The days keep counting down and tonight we’re on eight…  are you thinking about entering our fun contests? It’s still not too late!

Show off your pup’s “Creative Holiday Spirit” by entering your fur-babies in the 5th Annual “Candy Canine Costume Contest” - Judging starts at 1:00 PM

Presenting our inaugural “Gingerbread House Decorating” contest. Houses will be on display when the holiday village opens at 12:00 PM. Stop by to view these sweet creations and vote for your favorite until 3:00 PM

*See full details to enter these fun contests on their official “rules to participate” flyers.

Follow our countdown to the 28th Annual Nutcracker Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Village in Downtown Anaheim - We are sharing a few event highlights and look forward to having you join us Saturday, December 3rd, 2022!

*Remember to bring your cell phone or camera to take pictures with Santa & Mrs. Claus. It’s a wonderful opportunity for you to snap event highlights and memories!

11/24/2022

Choo-Choo what’s that sound? Free train rides of course… So join us downtown - With our countdown down to just 9 days away… Don’t miss the train - they’ll be running all day!

Follow our countdown to the 28th Annual Nutcracker Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Village in Downtown Anaheim - We look forward to sharing event highlights and having you join us Saturday, December 3rd, 2022!

11/24/2022

On this day of Thanksgiving, we want to express our gratitude to our sponsors. There is no doubt, that without their generous support, this much loved community event, which is now in its 28th year, would not be possible. Many thanks!

11/24/2022

The 10 day countdown is on… Are you ready? Here we go - Setting the atmosphere for a fun filled day with the spectacular tree all a glow!

Follow our countdown to the 28th Annual Nutcracker Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Village in Downtown Anaheim - We look forward to sharing event highlights and having you join us Saturday, December 3rd, 2022!

11/20/2022

Calling all Canine - Show off your “Creative Holiday Spirit” during the Nutcracker Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Village in Downtown Anaheim. Enter the 5th Annual Candy Canine Costume Contest sponsored by Cottage Pet Hospital. It is going to be PAW-SOME!.

Hosted by the Miss Anaheim Beautiful Scholarship Program & Anaheim Beautiful Youth Members,
Prizes coutesy of Anaheim Feed & Pet Supply

Contest rules are posted in the comments. Email: [email protected] for additional information or questions.



11/19/2022

Join us at the 28th Annual Nutcracker Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Village in Downtown Anaheim - Saturday, December 3, 2022 - The tradition continues & our celebration would not be complete without you. We look forward to sharing a magical day with our community!

12/20/2021

The Nutcracker Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Village in Downtown Anaheim would like to thank our event sponsors. Their support and collaboration helped create a “Winter Wonderland” of fun and another memorable day for our community... We are grateful! 🎄⛄️🎅🤶⛄️🎄

12/07/2021

What a beautiful sight… A fun-filled day and special night… A truly spectacular Anaheim Winter Wonderland!
⛄️🎄❄️❄️⛄️🎄❄️❄️⛄️🎄❄️❄️⛄️🎄❄️❄️⛄️🎄

Thank you for joining us for the 27th Annual Nutcracker Christmas Tree Lighting. We hope you enjoyed this fabulous event and created memories to last a lifetime. Keep the magic of the holidays alive throughout the whole year. Until we gather together again… Merry Christmas!