Del Ray Tree Lighting: Santa Visit, Decorating Contest, More

ALEXANDRIA, VA—If you're out of town for the Thanksgiving holiday, you might be missing the tree lighting at Alexandria City Hall. But don't sweat it—there's another tree lighting happening in Del Ray the following weekend. Del Ray's tree lighting is set for Saturday, Dec. 2 at 6 p.m.

Come to Pat Miller Neighborhood Square (Mount Vernon and East Oxford Avenues) to witness the tree light up for the holiday season. Santa will make a visit for photos and to meet with girls and boys on his nice list.

In between the lighting, visitors can shop at Del Ray Artisans’ Annual Holiday Market. The market offers unique handmade products from local artists, including pottery, photography, jewelry, fiber, paper crafts and glass. Artists donate a percentage of their sales back to Del Ray Artisans to help support future exhibits and programs. Shoppers can stop by Dec. 1-3, Dec. 8-10 and Dec. 15-17 from 6 p.m.-9 p.m. on Fridays and 11 a.m.- 6 p.m. on weekends.

The Del Ray Business Association will also hold its Christmas tree decorating contest for businesses. Visitors can walk down Mount Vernon Avenue and vote for the most festive business.

The event is seeking volunteers to assist during the tree lighting and clean up. Sign up here.

This article will be updated with more details leading up to the event.

Image via M. Enriquez/Visit Alexandri