Lakewood shines a bit brighter following Lakewood Lights on Friday, December 5, 2025, from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Heritage Lakewood Belmar Park. The official lighting ceremony with the mayor and city council begins at the Gazebo at 5:30 p.m. Meet with Santa or craft an ornament. Cookies and hot cocoa are available for free (though a $1 donation is nice). This event is FREE and open to all ages.
Lakewood Lights (Photo by Ken Papaleo//High Country Coloring)
Children can meet with the big guy himself! Santa will be set up in his workshop, located in the Heritage Lakewood Visitor Center from 3 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. (Sensory-friendly visit are from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. with other visits from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.) Note: Santa meet and greets start at 3 p.m. BEFORE the tree lighting festivities.
Meet and greets are FREE, but you need to reserve a spot. To do so: Arrive at the beginning of the evening to reserve your place in the line. Santa’s helpers will take down your name and cell phone number.
Then, you can wander around enjoying the festivities as the elves will text you when it’s your turn to meet Santa!
Lakewood Lights is packed with free entertainment and family-friendly activities:
- Holiday carols: Sing along as local high school choirs fill the air with holiday carols and cheer.
- Sweet treats: Warm up with hot cocoa and festive holiday treats.
- Creative fun: Make a memorable keepsake at the ornament crafting station.
- Visit with Santa Claus: Kids of all ages can meet Santa for free visits from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
- Sensory-friendly visits will be offered from 3 to 5 p.m. to ensure a comfortable experience for everyone.
- Unique gift shopping: Find a one-of-a-kind treasure for someone special at the Museum Store.
- Support your community: Bring a nonperishable food item to help Lakewood Pack the Pantry.
Note: This is primarily an outdoor event, so dress for the weather! Santa visits will be indoors at the Visitor Center.
Parking is available at the park and in the surrounding area.
For more information, call 303-987-7850. 801 S. Yarrow St., Lakewood.
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