Now Twinkling! Big Bear's Season of Lights
Posted: 10/30/25
From holiday lights in The Village, to the Festival of Lights Contest, the Grand Menorah Lighting and the Christmas Tree Lighting, Big Bear is a Twinkle Town this winter season.
1. Alpine Zoo Wild Lights
This winter, we're bringing the first of its kind to the mountain, a harmony of lights and wildlife - the Alpine Zoo Wild Lights! You'll find yourself enveloped by stunning multi-color lights and heartfelt moments as you observe the rehabilitated Alpine wildlife - realizing this is a night of fun and wonder won't soon be forgotten!
2. Festival of Lights Contest
The holiday season of 2025 marks the second annual Festival of Lights Holiday Competition. Local businesses, residents, and homeowners are invited to deck their homes with holiday cheer for a chance to win big prizes!
Once registration closes, everyone is invited to join the fun as a Voter, touring the valley to admire the displays and vote for their favorite. Prizes are awarded by the People's Choice.
3. Holiday Lights in the Village
Thanksgiving Day marks the start of Big Bear Lake's twinkle season each year. The City of Big Bear Lake adorns The Village with bright red bows and fresh green garlands transforming the downtown district into a warm, welcoming holiday hub.
As the sun sets, the tree lights come on adding another dimension to the festive decor. Have your camera at the ready as you stroll through this holiday wonderland, stop for a visit at Santa's house, and admire the Village Christmas Tree!
4. Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Each year in Big Bear, the day after Thanksgiving is Tree Lighting Day! This festive event is complete with musical performances by local artists, the official arrival of Santa and Mrs. Clause - aboard a decked out firetruck - and of course the lighting of the Big Bear Christmas Tree (at the corner of Pineknot Ave and Village Dr. Better known as Christmas Tree Corner)
The event is followed by Santa and Mrs. Clause taking up residence in their hut on Village Dr. Pictures and visits are available each weekend following until the Sunday before Christmas.
5. Grand Menorah Lighting & Chanukah Celebration
The Grand Menorah in The Village sits side by side with the Christmas Tree and each year, Chabad of Lake Arrowhead & Big Bear host the Grand Menorah Lighting and Chanukah Celebration during the week of Chanukah.
Attendees are welcomed to enjoy hot latkes and drinks, free Chanukah swag, entertainment, kids crafts and balloon artist, and a golden gelt drop from a Big Bear firetruck! And of course, the official lighting of the Grand Menorah!
2025 celebration is December 21.
6. Holiday Fun & Events
Browse a list of holiday events happening this year, scroll through blogs on how to make the most of your holiday getaway to Big Bear, and explore winter recreation open now for your enjoyment!
