OSWEGO — The City of Oswego invites families, residents, and visitors to celebrate the start of the holiday season at the annual Tree Lighting Celebration on Saturday, November 29, 2025, from 2:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Civic Plaza (13 W. Oneida Street). This year’s celebration embraces a festive Nutcracker theme, bringing added magic and charm to downtown Oswego.
A full lineup of free activities and entertainment will be available throughout the afternoon:
Santa Visits (2:30–5:00 p.m.)
Children and families are invited to meet Santa for photos and holiday cheer before his appearance during the evening show.
Free Horse Carriage Rides (2:30–5:00 p.m.) Beloved by families each year, the horse-drawn carriage rides return for 2025. The City encourages visitors to arrive early, as lines grow significantly toward the end of the evening.
The route will feature festive decorations thanks to the Oswego Renaissance Association. In addition to assisting with decorating the carriage route. The Association has also generously launched a Holiday Grant Program for homeowners along the route to encourage beautiful home displays that enhance the holiday magic for riders.
Free Shuttle Service A free ADA- and stroller-accessible shuttle will be available in partnership with the Oswego County Mobility Management Office. Parking will be provided at:
• The County Building lot (off East Oneida Street between East 2nd and East 3rd Streets)
• The Bell Parking Lot at Breitbeck Park
The full shuttle schedule is available on the City of Oswego website and the Ci ty Facebook Page.
Family Photo Opportunities & Activities Guests can enjoy numerous photo-friendly features throughout the event, including ice sculptures and visits from roaming elves.
Entertainment & Amenities
• Christmas Train Ride (2:30–6:30 p.m.) — A free, festive train ride for children on West 1st Street.
• Fire dancers on the West 1st Street side of City Hall.
• Friends of Camp Hollis offering hot cocoa for a small fee, with all proceeds supporting their programs.
Live Show & Tree Lighting (5:00–6:00 p.m.) The evening program begins at 5:00 p.m. on the bandstage and will include:
• A special performance by the Syracuse City Ballet from their production of The Nutcracker
• Magic with Chris Wheel
• Holiday music, surprises, and a visit from Santa
At 6:00 p.m., the winners of the City’s annual coloring contest will join Mayor Rob Corradino and Santa to officially light the City’s Christmas Tree.
A brilliant display of fireworks over the Oswego River will follow at 6:05 p.m., concluding the evening’s festivities.
The City of Oswego welcomes all to experience a joyful, family-centered celebration as the community comes together to illuminate the holiday season.
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