America's Oldest Christmas Tree Lighting

America’s Oldest Christmas Tree Lighting turns 118 on Saturday December 5, 2026! The town of Perkasie has been hosting this magical event since 1909, and year after year they continue to bring the joy of Christmas to attendees of all ages. Here's what you can expect at Perkaise's annual tree lighting!

The Tree Lighting is from 5 pm - 8 pm, with Santa lighting the tree at 7 pm. However, visitors who arrive between 12 pm and 5 pm have the opportunity to ride Perkasie’s iconic Carousel for free, along with free hot chocolate, candy canes, and readings of “The Polar Express” from The Conductor at the Perkasie Historical Society Museum in town.

Before the main event, walk around Perkaise's main streets and stop in at The Perk or Free Will Brewing for a drink and a bite to eat. Make sure to grab a parking spot near the Town Center if you arrive early enough. You are also able to take the Park & Ride, operated by First Student, from South Middle School to the Town Center, where you are able to enjoy a stress-free ride into town.

To ring in the holiday spriit, check out the other eateries in the Perkasie area for their special holiday menus. If you don't want to fuel up on food before the festivities, check out the "Food Truck Court" in the Shelly's parking lot, with around 15 different vendors.

Take part in many Christmas activities before the tree lighting! Check out the Nostalgic Holiday Train Display at the Perkasie Electric Building, with miniature towns and landscapes for the trains to pass through. Be sure ot hitch a ride on the beautiful horse drawn carriages through town.

Be prepared to be wowed by holiday themed displays, like 2 stilt walkers and an acrobatic show. At the heated tent in the Town Center, enjoy live music, excerpts from The Nutcracker, holiday songs and carols performed by The Pennridge Central & South Middle School choirs, and “T’was the Night Before Christmas” read by Perkasie’s former Mayor.

As 7 pm approaches, Santa and Mrs. Claus ride in on a shiny red Perkasie Electric Truck. With the help of everyone counting down to the big moment, Santa, and a little assistance from Perkasie Electric, light up Perkasie’s Christmas tree, where the Christmas spirit can be felt all around as Santa tosses out candy canes to the crowd.

Check out what you can expect at the tree lighting with our video here.