Downtown West Bend will ring in the holiday season on Thursday, November 5 with the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. It's a community tradition featuring festive music, free photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and the ceremonial lighting of the downtown tree at Old Settlers Plaza.
The Tree Lighting Ceremony is free and open to the public. Hosted by the City of West Bend and the Downtown Business Improvement District, in partnership with The Bend Theater and the Downtown West Bend Association, the event brings residents and visitors together to celebrate the start of a new season. 

Festivities begin at 5:30 p.m. with photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Stop by Old Settlers Park for free photos. Hot chocolate and hot apple cider will be available. West Bend Mayor Joel Ongert and BID Board President Peggy Fischer will share a few words before they officially light the tree.

“The Tree Lighting Ceremony is a wonderful opportunity to bring our community together and celebrate the start of the holiday season,” said Fischer in a press release. “We encourage everyone to come downtown, enjoy the festivities and take some time to explore the local businesses that make West Bend special.”

The evening’s program will conclude with a musical performance by the West Bend High School Madrigal Singers. Guests are also welcome to stop by The Bend Theater after the ceremony to enjoy a musical performance by Jaik Willis, part of The Bend's Origins Series. The concert is free.