Altadena Prepares for the 106th Anniversary of Christmas Tree Lane
Christmas Tree Lane in Altadena will return for its 106th anniversary on December 5, 2026, featuring more than 20,000 twinkling lights across nearly a mile of towering deodar cedar trees, Secret Los Angeles reported. Recognized as the oldest large-scale outdoor Christmas lighting display in the United States, the historic attraction expects to draw between 10,000 and 15,000 visitors for this year’s opening.
Schedule and Events for the 2026 Lighting Ceremony
The official lighting ceremony starts at 6 p.m. along Santa Rosa Avenue between Woodbury Avenue and Altadena Drive. Festivities begin earlier with the free Winterfest celebration running from 3 to 9 p.m. at the corner of Santa Rosa Avenue and Mariposa Street. The event features local artisan vendors, food trucks, live music, marching bands, children’s activities, community booths, and photo opportunities with Santa. The illuminated display remains open from early December through approximately the first week of January, with the best viewing conditions occurring after dark.
Visitor Guidelines and Neighborhood Access
Organizers advise motorists to drive slowly through the residential street. Because the area lacks sidewalks, the display is primarily designed for viewing from vehicles. Visitors must avoid stopping in the street, blocking private driveways, littering, or making excessive noise in the active neighborhood. Parking options remain limited on nearby side streets.
Survival and Restoration After the 2025 Eaton Fire
The historic corridor weathered a severe test in January 2025 when the Eaton Fire destroyed thousands of structures throughout Altadena. Despite the widespread destruction, the deodar cedars lining Christmas Tree Lane survived without losing a single tree. Strong winds damaged several upper branches and strands of holiday lights, but local volunteers returned to repair the installation. The Walt Disney Company contributed $100,000 to replace damaged lighting equipment and upgrade the infrastructure. The community brought the tradition back in December 2025, less than a year after the fire.
History of America’s Oldest Outdoor Christmas Display
The origins of the display date back to 1885, when the Woodbury family planted the deodar cedar trees along Santa Rosa Avenue. Frederick C. Nash, a local businessman, began decorating the trees with lights in 1920 to draw holiday shoppers to his department store. The original quarter-mile installation eventually expanded to nearly a mile and earned designation as a California Historical Landmark in 1990.
Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Tree Lane
Where is Christmas Tree Lane located?
The display runs along Santa Rosa Avenue between Woodbury Avenue and Altadena Drive in Altadena, California.
Is there an admission fee to visit the display?
Visiting Christmas Tree Lane and attending the Winterfest celebration are entirely free to the public.
How long will the holiday lights stay up?
The lights stay illuminated from early December through approximately the first week of January.
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