Los Angeles Union Station is gearing up for its 11th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, set to bring a dose of holiday cheer to the historic downtown hub. The free, family-friendly event is scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 19, from 6 to 8 p.m., taking place in the station’s historic Ticket Concourse.
This year, Angelenos can kick off the season with a familiar face at the helm: mid-century pop culture expert Charles Phoenix will host the evening. The event promises live entertainment, opportunities for photos with Santa, and a spirited countdown led by Santa and his elves before they light up the station’s 30-foot tree.
The musical lineup for the night, presented by Metro Art Presents, features local talent. Los Angeles-based Mariachi Ausente, described as one of the city's most sought-after mariachi bands, will open the celebration. Following their performance, the 10-piece jazz sensation Lizzy & the Triggermen will headline the evening, offering big-band swing sounds for the season. Beyond the main stage, the celebration will also include a cookie counter for sweet treats and towering stilt walkers in festive costumes roaming throughout the station, all set against Union Station’s signature holiday décor.
Jeff Brown, Vice President and General Manager, Morlin Asset Management at Los Angeles Union Station, noted the event's long-standing tradition. "For 11 years, the Union Station Tree Lighting Ceremony has brought Angelenos together to celebrate the holidays," Brown said. He added that through their partnership with Metro, they are "proud to strengthen Union Station's role as a cultural landmark, community gathering place, and the living room of Los Angeles," and expressed delight in welcoming Charles Phoenix, whom he called "a beloved champion of L.A. history and culture," as host.
The tree lighting ceremony is just the start of Union Station’s holiday season. The station’s extensive holiday décor, including illuminated exterior palm trees, the iconic Clock Tower wreath, oversized wreaths, ornaments, and lights throughout the historic interiors, will be on display from November 19 through December 27. Visitors can also find additional holiday trees in the Waiting Room and South Patio, alongside a menorah in celebration of Hanukkah, providing ample photo opportunities both inside and out. The South Patio, home to its own 30-foot tree, will be open daily from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. during this period.
Beyond the main event, the station will feature additional holiday programming throughout the season. Commuters and visitors passing through the station during the workweek can expect to hear the sounds of the Salvation Army Band. For those interested in the station’s rich history, the Los Angeles Conservancy will offer 90-minute evening tours focusing on Union Station's historic architecture and holiday décor. These tours require advance registration through the LA Conservancy’s calendar.
Union Station itself holds a significant place in Los Angeles history. Since its opening in 1939, the station has been regarded as one of LA's architectural gems and a "vital portal to the promise of the California Dream." Its design blends Spanish Colonial, Mission Revival, and Art Deco architecture, a style now commonly known as Mission Moderne. This bustling 52-acre transportation hub, located in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles, connects various destinations across Southern California. It is recognized as the largest railroad passenger terminal in the Western United States and is often referred to as "the last of the great train stations," serving as a vibrant symbol connecting the historic fabric of the past to the present through arts, culture, transit, and community.
Metro Art, a partner in the ceremony, works to enhance the customer experience across the Metro system through innovative visual and performing arts programming. Their efforts aim to encourage ridership and connect people, neighborhoods, and destinations throughout Los Angeles County, integrating site-specific artworks and showcasing cultural programs, like this tree lighting, at historic Union Station. All Metro Art events, including this ceremony, are free and open to the public.
For those planning to attend the Tree Lighting Ceremony, it is accessible via Metro Rail, Metro Bus, Metro Bike Share, Metrolink, Amtrak, and several municipal bus lines, including the Metro A, B, D, or J Lines which go directly to Los Angeles Union Station. Parking is also available at Union Station East or West, with rates starting at $8. Guests interested in attending the free event are encouraged to register.
