Palmer Square Kicks Off Holiday Season with Annual Tree Lighting Celebration on November 28

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Palmer Square · November 28, 2025

Palmer Square residents are preparing for a festive start to the holiday season with the neighborhood's Annual Tree Lighting event scheduled for Friday, November 28th. This year's celebration promises to bring back beloved traditions including a live ice carving demonstration, entertaining Dueling Pianos performances, and numerous family-friendly activities leading up to the grand illumination.

The event will transform Palmer Square into a winter wonderland, creating a perfect opportunity for neighbors to gather and celebrate together. Following the tree lighting, the community can look forward to Holiday Strolling Entertainment throughout the Square every weekend from November 29th through December, featuring cheerful carolers and Santa himself visiting the area. This seasonal programming complements Palmer Square Park's recent designation as Chicago's first officially accredited arboretum, adding extra significance to the community's celebration of its beloved trees during the winter months.

Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to attend this festive neighborhood tradition, which kicks off a season of local holiday shopping and community gatherings. The event organizers suggest arriving early to secure a good viewing spot for the lighting ceremony and to enjoy all the pre-lighting entertainment and activities.

Sources:
1. https://palmersquare.com/events/
2. https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/news/palmer-square-park-logan-square-arboretum/
3. https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/10/07/palmer-square-park-named-chicago-park-districts-first-arboretum/