Keizer Holiday Tree Lighting 2025: Dates, Parking, and Local Tips

If you're planning to attend the Keizer Holiday Tree Lighting in 2025, this guide covers everything you need to know. This is one of Keizer’s most loved December traditions, drawing families from Keizer, Salem, and surrounding areas. As a local Keizer realtor who follows community events closely, here’s a simple breakdown to help you plan your evening.

When and Where the Tree Lighting Happens

Date: Tuesday, December 2, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Location: Walery Plaza, at Cherry Avenue and River Road
Hosted By: Keizer Chamber of Commerce, City of Keizer, and Keizer Fire District
Cost: Free, family-friendly community event

Parking fills quickly near River Road, so plan to arrive early.

What to Expect This Year

• Free cookies and hot cocoa

• Local volunteers decorating the community tree

• Kids 12 and under may enter a drawing to help flip the tree-lighting switch

• Santa arrives with the Keizer Fire District around 6:45 PM

• The crowd builds fast, especially near Copper Creek Mercantile

• Road activity increases right before lighting time

This event is simple, cheerful, and focused on community connection.

Looking for more local holiday traditions? Explore the Gala of Trees 2025 in Salem, one of the region’s most meaningful seasonal events.

Local Tips for a Smooth Night

• Arrive a little early to get parking and a good viewing spot

• Dress for the weather — Keizer December evenings are usually chilly and damp

• Bring a small flashlight or glow item for kids

• Plan dinner nearby because restaurants fill up quickly

• Keep it short — it’s a quick weeknight outing, not an all-evening festival

Why Keizer Residents Love This Event

The Keizer Holiday Tree at Walery Plaza has been a local landmark since 1991. What started as a small gathering now brings out thousands of residents each year. Locals love it because:

• It’s a simple way to kick off the season

• It brings the community together

• It adds a holiday reset in the middle of a busy month

• Kids look forward to the tradition year after year

This is one of Keizer’s easiest “yes” events for families.

Nearby Things to Do After the Tree Lighting

Check out more local activities:

• Keizer’s Best Christmas Light Displays

• Holiday Events in Salem and Keizer 2025

• Where to See Santa in Keizer

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About Hannah

I’m Hannah Fouts-Sparks with the Sparks Property Group at SMI Real Estate. I help families across Keizer and Salem find homes that fit their lifestyle and keep them close to the community events they love. If you’re thinking about moving, upgrading, or staying local, I’d love to help.