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Detroit’s tree lighting kicks off downtown holiday festivities

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Now with two locations

Photo by Michelle & Chris Gerard

The holiday season is about to move into full swing this Friday, as the Norwegian Spruce lights up Campus Martius. But this year, the party is extending to Detroit’s newest downtown park.

Beacon Park will host Light Up Beacon Park Friday, November 17 from 5 p.m. to midnight, to coincide with the tree lighting. Free shuttles will run between the parks every 15 minutes, and Beacon Park will have selfies with Santa, food, hot chocolate, and booze in a heated tent, with a livestream of the tree lighting. Thornetta Davis will also perform at 9 and 10 p.m. at Beacon Park.

The main event is at Campus Martius, including music, ice skating, carriage rides, and more. The evening starts at 5 p.m., with the tree expected to be lit right before 8 p.m.

Since tens of thousands of people are expected, road closures are smart and imminent. Expect closures around Campus Martius, including Woodward Avenue, starting at 9 a.m. on November 17th. The QLINE will also end at Campus Martius.

Don’t forget! More local shopping will be available in three locations through the Downtown Detroit Markets. Shops will be located in Capitol Park, 1001 Woodward, and Cadillac Square.

More info on this weekend’s tree lighting can be found here.

Like Campus Martius, Beacon Park will be activated all year, and has many winter activities in the works including tailgating and a beer & wine festival. A full schedule can be found here.

Campus Martius Park

800 Woodward Avenue, , MI 48226 (313) 566-8250 Visit Website