Lighting of Wake Forest

2026 Lighting of Wake Forest
Friday, Dec. 4 | 5-8 pm
Centennial Plaza, 301 S. Brooks St.

You're invited to experience the wonder and magic of the holiday season at the 2026 Lighting of Wake Forest on Friday, Dec. 4!

This year's ceremony will feature the lighting of the Christmas tree and the arrival of Santa Claus.

Holiday Fun

Wake Forest Downtown Tent – Visit for event information and grab a free holiday light stick while supplies last.
Wake Forest Woman’s Club – Get creative with children’s holiday crafts that add extra sparkle to the season and letter writing to Santa Claus!
Imagine Circus Performers – Be amazed by roaming entertainers and snap fun photos with these whimsical holiday characters throughout the event!
Endless Expressions Photo Booth – Don’t forget to capture the magic with roaming photo booth fun all around the event footprint!

Holiday Entertainment Lineup

Get ready for festive fun and cheerful tunes! Enjoy:

Festive Musical Performances by: Wake Forest iSTEM Magnet Elementary School Chorus, Envision Science Academy, School of Rock Wake Forest

(PNG, 643.91 KB)Dining

Come hungry and enjoy a tasty variety of food from the following options.

Blazing Kettle
Kono Pizza
Little Halos
Charlie's Kabob Grill on Wheels
The Naked Empanada
Downtown Dining Options – Explore even more local flavors from our Downtown restaurants!

Parking

Free Parking – Available at the Center for Active Aging and along several side streets and public parking lots throughout Downtown Wake Forest.
Accessible Parking – Designated spaces will be available in the Town Hall parking lot at 301 S. Brooks Street.

Please Note: Some parking lots may appear public but are actually private and reserved for business patrons. Be sure to read all posted signage to confirm where you park.