Celebrate the Season at The Forum Carlsbad’s Tree Lighting

The Forum Carlsbad is bringing back its Tree Lighting Celebration for the 23rd year, and if you’re in North County looking for a holiday event that’s become a genuine tradition, this delivers.

The evening features live performances, holiday characters, a dazzling light and music display, and a snowfall finale that transforms the shopping center into a festive winter scene.

The Main Event

The celebration kicks off with the La Costa Canyon High School Marching Band, followed by Santa’s grand arrival with Buddy the Elf, the lighting of the Christmas tree, and snowfall to close out the ceremony.

You can take photos with Santa in the breezeway between Tecovas and Chico’s, catch live music by Woodie & The Longboards, and encounter strolling entertainers, including a Winter Fairy and Toy Soldier Stilt Walkers.

There’s interactive fun at the Lolli Whirl carnival booth game, festive pictures inside Wander Wagen’s vintage photobooth bus, and seasonal treats from select restaurants.

It’s the kind of evening where you can wander, sample, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere without feeling like you’re being funneled through a single experience.

📆 Friday, December 5, 6 PM – 8 PM

Santa Returns Every Weekend

Santa visits continue every weekend through December 21 in the breezeway between Tecovas and Chico’s, near the Koi Pond and Luckey Climber. Visits are complimentary, and you’re encouraged to bring your own camera to capture the moment.

📆 Saturdays and Sundays, 11 AM – 4 PM (December 6-7, 13-14, 20-21)

Special Adoption Event

The Forum Carlsbad is partnering with Amazing Strays Rescue for an adoption event on the lawn near YETI. You can meet adoptable puppies and dogs and learn about getting involved through fostering, volunteering, or donating supplies.

It’s a smart addition to the holiday programming – giving rescue animals visibility during a season when people are thinking about gifts and family.

📆 Sunday, December 14, 11 AM – 2 PM

Christmas Tree Wonderlights

The choreographed light and music show illuminates the plaza near Anthropologie every evening. It adds nightly entertainment beyond just the weekend Santa visits and the one-time tree lighting, giving people reasons to come back throughout December.