Millennium Park Tree Lighting Ceremony

The beloved Chicago holiday tradition of lighting the Christmas tree that towers over Millennium Park will kick off on November 21, 2025. This live event will fill Millennium Park with music, fireworks and thousands of twinkling lights.

A 53-foot-tall Colorado blue spruce was selected for this year’s Christmas tree, making it the 112th City of Chicago Christmas tree. The tree lighting ceremony will unfold with a pre-show at 5 p.m., featuring performances from local singers and dancers at the main stage along Washington Street.

Broadcast anchors from CBS Channel 2 will emcee the event. The lighting of the tree will start at approximately 6:00 p.m., followed by a fireworks display. Arrive early from the South Promenade on Monroe Street for the best views.

The ceremony will be broadcast live on CBS News Chicago from 6:00 to 6:30 p.m. The tree will be illuminated and on display through January 11, 2026.