Santa Ana Winter Village tree lighting ceremony set for Dec. 10

The second annual Santa Ana Winter Village will open with an official tree lighting ceremony on the first Saturday of the month-long holiday event.

On Dec. 10, the outdoor ice-skating rink and village will be open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. with special festivities throughout the day, culminating with the tree lighting event at 5 p.m. in the Orange County Civic Center’s Plaza of the Sun.

Starting at 3 p.m., the Anaheim Ducks Street Team, Power Players, and mascot Wild Wing will be on site with fun and festive activations giving fans the chance to win prizes while jamming out to tunes by the Ducks’ DJs. Meet and greet with Santa Claus at 4 p.m. and enjoy a holiday treat provided by Northgate Market. A special focus of the day will feature family-friendly activities, including a festive trackless train and story time in Santa’s Village.

The Winter Village will light the fully decorated 30-foot tree after a short ceremony beginning at 5 p.m. in the Plaza of the Sun, between Santa Ana City Hall and the Main Library. Additional performances by professional ice-skaters will begin at 5:30 p.m. The Festival of Lights, a nightly holiday light show surrounding the Plaza of the Sun, will start promptly at 6 p.m. and play every 30 minutes.

Skating sessions are available for guests to reserve online now and limited tickets will be available for purchase at the ticket booth on the day-of for walk-ups. General skating admission is discounted for Santa Ana residents. Adult ticket pricing is $10 for Santa Ana residents and $15 for non-residents. Kids (ages 12 years and under) ticket pricing is $5 for Santa Ana residents and $10 for non-residents. Proof of residency is required for discounted tickets. General admission to the Santa Ana Winter Village and tree lighting ceremony is free of charge.

Go to the Winter Village website for directions, parking, schedules and future updates.