Things to Do

Delray Beach Christmas Tree, Celebration Lights Up the (Chilly) Night

by
Daniel Nee
December 5, 2024

Delray Beach delivered on its annual spectacle of the lighting of a 100-foot tall Christmas tree at Old School Square on Tuesday night, drawings thousands to Atlantic Avenue to enjoy the sights and sounds of the season – with a little “help” from Mother Nature. (Note: If the video featuring the tree and ceremony does not play above, disable ad blocking software or visit this page.)

The lighting of the 2024 Delray Beach, FL 100-foot Christmas tree. (Photo: Boca Daily News)

Festooned akin to a winter wonderland, the square and Atlantic Avenue were decked out like never before, from the striking display of hundreds of thousands of lights on the tree, to the solemnity of a display of the first Christmas provided by St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. While people flock to South Florida this time of year to escape the cold weather and snow of the north, few minded trading in their shorts and flip flops for jeans and sweatshirts for one night, with temperatures dipping into the mid-50s to provide just a hint of a winter chill.

The lighting of the 2024 Delray Beach, FL 100-foot Christmas tree. (Photo: Boca Daily News)

Atlantic Avenue was packed in a party atmosphere that saw restaurants and bars filled to capacity while families roamed the closed-off street, choosing gifts from dozens of vendors and listening to the tunes at multiple booths where local musicians performed a mix of wintry seasonal classics to current favorites.

The lighting of the 2024 Delray Beach, FL 100-foot Christmas tree. (Photo: Boca Daily News)

The city’s 100-foot tall Christmas tree is a 31-year-old tradition in Delray Beach, having been lit every year by Santa Claus himself. For those who missed the lighting, or would like to head back for another visit, the Gingerbread Ticket House, Carousel, Mini Golf and access inside the massive tree will continue through Dec. 29 with varying hours, as published on the city’s website. There will also be ice skating at the square on Saturdays and Sundays, as well as at certain times through the end of the month.

The city’s Christmas Boat Parade, presented along with Boynton Beach, is scheduled for Dec. 13 along the intracoastal.

A schedule of events appears below:

Gingerbread Ticket House, Carousel, Mini Golf and Tree Hours

Dec. 3: 6 PM – 9 PM

Dec. 5 – Dec. 22

Thursday – Friday: 5 PM – 9 PM

Saturday & Sunday: 1 PM – 9 PM; Ice Skating 5 PM – 9 PM

Dec. 23: 1 PM – 9 PM: Ice Skating 5 PM – 9 PM

Dec. 24 – 25: Tree and carousel only, 5 PM – 9 PM.

Dec. 26 – 29: 1 PM – 9 PM; Ice Skating 5 PM – 9 PM

Last tickets sold for carousel, ice skating and mini golf at 8:30 PM. *Subject to change depending on the crowds.

Santa’s House Hours

Visit the Santa House & get a picture with Santa.

Dec. 3: 7:30 PM – 9 PM

Dec. 6: 5 PM – 8:30 PM

Dec. 7: 5 PM – 8:30 PM

Dec. 8: 5 PM – 8:30 PM

(Creole/Kreyòl)

Dec. 13: 5 PM – 8:30 PM

Dec. 14: 3 PM – 6 PM

Dec. 15: 5 PM – 8:30 PM

(Spanish/Espanol)

Dec. 20: 5 PM – 8:30 PM

Dec. 21: 5 PM – 8:30 PM

Dec. 22: 5 PM – 8:30 PM

Dec. 23: 4 PM – 8:30 PM

(Spanish/Espanol)

Last ticket sold 30 minutes prior to closing. *Subject to change depending on the crowds.

Holiday Village Activities

Walk Through the Tree: Free

Holiday Carousel: $6 per Ride (The carousel will offer free rides on December 24 -25)

Ice Skating: $6 (Closed December 24 & 25)

Mini Golf: $6

Ride All Day Wristband: $20

Santa Photos: $10 Take-A-Way Photo

Tickets for Holiday Village activities may be purchased at the Gingerbread Ticket House. Last ticket sold at 8:30 pm. *Subject to change depending on the crowds. No Refunds.