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The Dirt

Davis Candlelight Parade & Tree Lighting set

By: Jenny Tan, City of Davis

The City of Davis announced today that all are invited to attend the 43rd annual Candlelight Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony on Thursday, Dec. 5.

Parade

Starting promptly at 6 p.m., the Candlelight Parade will kick off from the Davis Food Co-op parking lot (620 G Street) and conclude at the E Street Plaza.

Families and residents of all ages interested in participating in the parade should arrive before 5:45 p.m. in the Co-op parking lot. Parade parking will not be available in the Food Co-op parking lot or in the E Street Plaza parking lot.

Due to the parade, rolling street closures will be occurring from the Co-op to downtown Davis along G Street, Third Street and E Street. As a result, motor vehicles may be delayed at these intersections, including Fifth Street, and drivers getting through downtown Davis at that time should expect delays.

Tree Lighting

Once the parade arrives at E Street Plaza, speeches and the lighting of the tree will begin at 6:30 p.m., led by Mayor Josh Chapman and the members of the Davis City Council.

In addition to the tree lighting, the following activities will be available:

  • Performances and original pieces performed by a variety of local groups starting at 6 p.m.
  • Horse and carriage rides
  • Roaming mascot characters
  • Photo op with Santa and Mrs. Claus starting at 6:30 p.m.
  • Free showings of the short film “Olaf’s Frozen Adventure” at the Varsity Theatre at 6 p.m., 6:40 p.m. and 7:20 p.m.

“The Candlelight Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony is a cherished Davis tradition,” said City of Davis Mayor Josh Chapman. “As the year draws to a close, this season reminds us of the joys of connection and celebration – qualities that make Davis an amazing place to live.”

Parking will be limited downtown due to street closures and residents are encouraged to walk, bike or take the bus for this event.

To participate in the Candlelight Parade or for more information about the event, visit: https://www.cityofdavis.org or contact Carrie Dyer at cdyer@cityofdavis.org.

Sponsors include the Varsity Theatre, Davis Food Co-op, Valley Clean Energy and City employee associations, including the Davis Police Officers Association (DPOA), Davis Firefighters Local 3494, Davis City Employee Association (DCEA) and the Program Administrative Support Employee Association (PASEA).

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