Aliso Viejo hosted its eighth annual tree lighting ceremony at the Aliso Viejo Town Center for residents on Dec. 4, 2025, from 5 to 8 p.m. that included games, vendors and music.
This evening was packed with community partnerships, live performances and festive activities that made this year’s celebration stand out from all the rest.
Tiffany Ackley, Mayor of Aliso Viejo, exclaims, “This year’s tree lighting is different because we partnered more with different community leaders.”
According to city leaders, the goal this year was to connect even more with local groups and organizations, and the turnout showed just how much the community embraced that effort. From musical groups to local businesses and first responders, more organizations than ever helped bring the celebration to life.
Planning such a huge holiday kickoff is no simple task. Every detail, from arranging the towering Christmas tree, to coordinating Santa’s arrival, takes careful coordination among city departments and community partners.
Ackley shares, “preparations began early in the summer, requiring “hours and hours” of organizing.
Families filled the Town Center lawn, taking photos with Elsa and Anna, visiting the Aliso Viejo Police booth and enjoying treats from Raising Cane’s, Urbane Café, Sgt. Pepperoni’s and the hot cocoa stand.
Children lined up for body art, checked out the Orange County Fire Authority trucks and met Marines and firefighters who joined in the festivities. A miniature train circled the tree, adding to the cheerful, busy atmosphere.
The performances were another highlight of the evening. The ANHS Choir and Jazz Band set the tone with classic winter melodies, bringing an extra layer of warmth to the chilly December night.
Alexia Kim (10) says, “I hope our performance added warmth and a sense of togetherness that Christmas caroling brings to the holiday atmosphere!”
Kim says, “My favorite part is watching the other artistic groups perform and how rewarding it felt to be performing in front of the community.”
Other additions this year included snow-like bubbles drifting from the tree’s branches, giving the plaza a magical, wintery feel the moment the lights turned on. Kids cheered as the bubbles floated through the air, making it one of the most memorable parts of the ceremony.
Ackley says, “The snow has definitely been my favorite part.”
Performers around Aliso Viejo kept the energy high throughout the night, creating a festive soundtrack for visitors exploring the booths and activities.
For many attendees, the tree lighting marks the true start of the season. With so many familiar faces gathering together, and so many volunteers working behind the scenes, the ceremony once again highlighted the spirit of community Aliso Viejo is known for.
This year’s event delivered everything residents hope for in a holiday tradition: music, lights, laughter and a sense of togetherness. With even more partnerships and features added, the city is already looking forward to making next year’s celebration even brighter.
