Union Depot Holiday Tree Lighting and Movie Night (FREE!)

Union Depot’s Annual Holiday Tree Lighting and Movie Night is back and bigger than ever on Saturday, December 6th, 2025!

Kick off the holiday season with the 13th annual free family-friendly Holiday Tree Lighting Celebration & Movie Night at Union Depot in St. Paul on Saturday, December 6. Enjoy the 2026 Winter Carnival button reveal, a holiday concert, Christmas tree lighting & fireworks, and a screening of Elf — all open to the public.

🎉 Why You Should Go

One-stop holiday kick-off — With the concert, movie, and tree lighting all in one place, it’s an easy win for a festive outing.

Family-friendly and free — A rare no-cost outing during the holidays with plenty of fun for kids and grown-ups alike.

Great photo-ops & seasonal cheer — Think holiday lights, hot chocolate, craft stations, live music, sing-alongs and fireworks. Plus it’s at the iconic Union Depot in downtown St. Paul.

Community vibe — This is more than just a tree lighting: it’s a celebration of St. Paul’s holiday spirit, local traditions and the joy of togetherness.

🎁 Featured Highlights

2026 Winter Carnival Buttons Reveal (5:00 p.m.)

Inside the Waiting Room, attendees will be treated to a fun, ceremonial reveal of the 2026 Winter Carnival button collection. The Winter Carnival Royal Family, Vulcan Krewe and Klondike Kates will unveil the buttons in their own theatrical style. It’s a great chance to catch a bit of local tradition and festive flair.

Live Holiday Concert & Festivities (5:30 p.m.)

Stay inside after the button reveal for a live performance by The Mistletones. The atmosphere will be full of holiday cheer — complete with complimentary hot chocolate, photo-ops, craft stations for kids, and giveaways. Perfect for families looking to enjoy something indoors before the colder outdoor activities begin.

Tree Lighting Ceremony (7:00 p.m.)

Move outdoors to the North Plaza for the main event: the lighting of the 2025 holiday tree at Union Depot.

• The tree was kindly donated by Bill and Deanna Ellingson of Roseville — a Colorado Blue Spruce they planted in 1996 and lovingly decorated each holiday season. When it outgrew their yard and garage, they happily said yes to having it taken to Union Depot for a truly joyous new life.
• The lighting event will be emceed by Dez from KS95, and the official countdown will be led by Ramsey County Commissioner Rafael Ortega.
• After the reveal, a short but exciting fireworks display will light up the sky, followed by a holiday sing-along.
• Bonus for the kiddos: the first 1,000 children (12 & under) get a light-up giveaway!

“Elf” Movie Night (7:30 p.m.)

Wind down with a cozy indoor screening of the holiday favorite, “Elf,” back in the Waiting Room. Bring blankets, pillows or comfy gear so you can snuggle in and enjoy. Chairs will be available, but DIY comfort will take it up a notch! Concessions (like popcorn) will also be available for purchase.

Don’t forget to visit the European Christmas Market while you’re at Union Depot!

🚍 Getting There & Transit Info

Here’s a transit-friendly tip:
Metro Transit is offering free rides to Union Depot during “Hub for the Holidays” — perfect for a stress-free, car-free outing. You can download your free pass at uniondepot.org/holiday.

📝 Pro Tips for a Great Evening

• Arrive early (5 p.m. start) to snag good seats inside and join in the craft stations and hot chocolate before the crowds build for outdoor lighting.
• Dress in layers! The tree lighting and fireworks are outdoors — warm outwear and layers will make a big difference.
• Bring blankets or pillows for the movie; the Waiting Room will be ready but comfy-extras = bonus family fun.
• For families with younger kids: the giveaway for kids 12 and under at the tree lighting is first-come-first-served (1,000 only), so aim for outdoors a bit before 7 p.m.
• Make it a full evening: arrive at 5, enjoy the button reveal and concert, then stay outside for the tree lighting at 7, and wrap up with the movie.
• Consider public transit or rideshare given the downtown location and event crowds — free Metro Transit pass makes it easy.

If one tree lighting just isn’t enough, see our big list of Minnesota Tree Lighting Celebrations and Ceremonies.