Coon Rapids Set to Kick Off the Holiday Season with Annual Community Tree Lighting Festival on December 13

COON RAPIDS, Minn. — The City of Coon Rapids will usher in the holiday season with its annual Community Tree Lighting Festival on Saturday, December 13, 2025, a beloved, family-friendly tradition that brings residents together for an evening of celebration, giving, and community spirit.

Hosted in partnership with the Coon Rapids Community Strength Foundation, the free event will take place from 3:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Boulevard Plaza, located at 11002 Crooked Lake Blvd.

A Festive Lineup for All Ages

This year’s festival features a full slate of winter-themed activities designed to delight attendees of all ages:

• Seasonal Treats: Guests can enjoy complimentary hot cocoa and cookies, with fire pits and bonfires placed throughout the plaza to help attendees stay warm in the December chill.
• Hands-On Fun: Children and families can take part in ornament making, while snow hills—weather permitting—will add to the outdoor winter excitement.
• Photos with Santa: Santa Claus will be on site for festive photo opportunities, offering families a chance to capture cherished holiday memories.
• Live Holiday Music: Throughout the afternoon, musicians will perform live holiday selections, adding to the warm, communal atmosphere.

Tree Lighting and Fireworks Grand Finale

The highlight of the festival begins at 5:30 p.m., when the community gathers for the official countdown to illuminate the city’s holiday tree. The lighting will be immediately followed by a spectacular fireworks display, marking a dazzling culmination to the evening’s activities.

Supporting Community Through Holiday Giving

In the spirit of generosity that defines the season, festival organizers will collect:

• Non-perishable food donations
• Monetary contributions

All donations will directly support the Coon Rapids High School Food Shelf and the Cardinal Compassion Fund, both of which provide critical assistance to local families.

A Note to Attendees

As the festival is held outdoors, the City encourages participants to dress warmly and arrive early to fully enjoy the event’s activities and secure good viewing spots for the tree lighting and fireworks.

With its blend of festive entertainment, family fun, and community giving, the Coon Rapids Community Tree Lighting Festival remains one of the city’s most cherished annual traditions—an event that continues to strengthen community bonds and spread holiday cheer across the city.

MinneapoliMedia