The annual Holiday Tree Lighting Celebration returns to the upper and lower plazas on Sunday, December 1 from 3-7 pm. Open to the public and free of charge, the lively event serves as a countdown to the illumination of the shimmering – and floating – 35-foot Christmas landmark rising from the City Place Park’s main pond. Santa will make an appearance at the festivities, which also include a curated holiday market and a variety of family-friendly activations such as face painters, balloon twisters, a letters to Santa station, and a kid's ornament craft area sponsored by Harmony Schools. To add to the holiday magic, a play area with real snow will be featured in the Upper Plaza, along with a hot chocolate bar and a DJ who will help spread holiday cheer with festive remixes.
The evening will also serve as the unveiling of the signature Giant Gingerbread Village showcasing a gumdrop, lollipop and candy cane lined path – guarded by two giant gingerbread men – leading to a raised clearing featuring cookie trees, a 16-foot-high gingerbread house and 12-foot windmill. Newly refreshed, the complimentary attraction was designed by the same creative team responsible for Houston’s Seismique interactive art museum. This installation is not the only Insta-worthy sight this season, as City Place will also showcase a number of holiday-themed pop-up art pieces designed by Houston-based artist, Anat Ronen. These larger-than-life installations will offer a whimsical take on traditional holiday decor with a gingerbread family and 3-D festive mural wall, snowmen, Christmas card, candy canes, ornaments and the popular Elf on the Shelf. All City Place holiday decor is free of charge, and will be on display until early January.
