Downtown Vancouver turns festive on Friday, November 28, 2025, when the Rotary Club of Vancouver presents the annual Community Tree Lighting at the Vancouver Waterfront and Esther Short Park. This free, family-friendly celebration is one of Vancouver’s signature holiday events and a great way to welcome the season. Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive on the Columbia River, a lighted vehicle parade rolls through downtown, and the community gathers as the tree lights up at 6 p.m.
Event Schedule
Waterfront arrival: Head to the Vancouver Waterfront in the late afternoon to see Santa and Mrs. Claus sail in by tugboat, escorted by a flotilla of Columbia River Christmas ships. This arrival honors the city’s riverfront roots and sets the tone for the evening.
Lighted vehicle parade: After greeting the crowd at the Waterfront, Santa and Mrs. Claus join a parade of decorated vehicles that travels up to downtown and into Esther Short Park, where the main festivities continue.
Tree lighting at 6:00 p.m.: The community gathers around the big holiday tree in Esther Short Park for the countdown. When Santa flips the switch, the park comes alive with lights, music, and photo ops.
What You’ll Find at Esther Short Park
Holiday Market at the Hilton Vancouver: Browse local, handmade gifts and treats from 3 to 8 p.m. inside the Hilton, adjacent to Esther Short Park.
Live music and on-stage entertainment leading up to the lighting
Carriage rides along 6th Street (arrive early; they’re popular)
Family photo stations, including Santa photos after the lighting
Frozen: Anna/Elsa/Olaf character appearances for kids and photos
The official community tree lighting at 6 p.m.
Cost: Free and open to the public.
Location & Parking
Locations: Festivities take place at two connected spots — the Vancouver Waterfront (for the tugboat/ship arrival) and Esther Short Park, 605 Esther St., Vancouver, WA (for the parade arrival, music, and tree lighting). Both are in downtown Vancouver and walkable.
Parking: City lots around Esther Short Park open at or before 3 p.m.; Rotary notes that a $5 parking donation is requested in some lots. Plan to arrive early for the closest spaces or consider rideshare/transit due to the downtown location and holiday crowds.
Do I Need Tickets?
No — the Vancouver Community Tree Lighting is a free community event presented by the Rotary Club of Vancouver. Just dress for the weather and show up.
Why You Won't Want to Miss This Event
This is one of the most festive tree lightings in southwest Washington: river arrival, lighted parade, downtown setting, and a park that stays beautifully lit through the season.
Make It a Vancouver Holiday Night
Before or after the lighting, explore downtown restaurants, grab hot drinks, or stroll the Waterfront for more lights. You can find more seasonal events on our Vancouver WA events calendar.
