Thousands gather as Alexandria lights up for the holidays

Market Square sparkles in final tree lighting before renovations

The holiday tree glows in Market Square as thousands gather for Alexandria’s annual tree lighting ceremony on Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025. (Ryan Belmore/The Alexandria Brief)

Thousands of residents and visitors packed Market Square on Saturday night for the city of Alexandria’s annual holiday tree lighting ceremony, a beloved tradition that brought families together to usher in the season.

Mayor Alyia Gaskins, joined by her family, took the stage alongside Councilwoman Jacinta Greene, Councilman Kirk McPike, and City Manager Jim Parajon to welcome the crowd. The event carried special significance as it marked the last tree lighting at the current Market Square before renovations begin in January 2026.

The town crier called everyone to gather, setting the stage for the evening’s highlight: Santa and Mrs. Claus arriving aboard a festively decorated King Street Trolley to the song “Here Comes Santa Claus.” The trolley will remain adorned throughout the holiday season.

Santa Claus speaks at the podium alongside Mrs. Claus, Mayor Alyia Gaskins and other city officials during Alexandria’s holiday tree lighting ceremony on Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025, in Market Square. (Ryan Belmore/The Alexandria Brief)

The pair joined city officials onstage to help lead the countdown and light the towering tree, which burst into brilliant illumination around 6:30 p.m., drawing cheers from the crowd.

Steffenworx Brass filled the air with holiday music throughout the event, while Santa and Mrs. Claus mingled with families until 8 p.m.

For detailed guides on all that’s happening in Alexandria this holiday season, visit Visit Alexandria.

Crowds fill Market Square as the newly lit holiday tree towers over the scene during the city’s annual tree lighting ceremony on Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025. (Ryan Belmore/The Alexandria Brief)