Dayton Kicks Off Holiday Season With Grand Illumination Tree Search

DAYTON, Ohio — The search is on for the tree that will light up Courthouse Square during the annual Grand Illumination in downtown Dayton. Each year, the Downtown Dayton Partnership selects a community-donated tree to serve as the centerpiece of the city’s holiday celebrations.

“This is one of our favorite traditions,” said Jessica Sands of the Downtown Dayton Partnership. “We always love hearing the stories people share about their trees — some have been in their yards for decades, and donating them gives those trees a new life as part of a community tradition.”

How to Nominate a Tree

The organization is looking for a Colorado Blue Spruce or Colorado Green Spruce, ideally 40–50 feet tall, though other evergreens may be considered. Trees should be located in a front or side yard with easy access for removal.

The best part? The Downtown Dayton Partnership covers all removal costs — including stump grinding and transport — free of charge.

Residents can submit their trees using a simple form at daytonholidayfestival.org.

Grand Illumination: Nov. 28, 2025

The chosen tree will debut during the Grand Illumination on Friday, Nov. 28, 2025, the day after Thanksgiving. Festivities begin at 4 p.m., with the official tree lighting at 6:30 p.m., followed immediately by Dayton’s holiday parade.

The Grand Illumination also kicks off a month of downtown holiday programming, including:

• Family Movie Series at The Neon, where kids watch free and parents’ tickets cost $2.

• Winter Wonderland at Rabbit Hole Books, featuring Santa visits and a kids’ holiday shop.

• A full calendar of additional family-friendly events, most of which are free.

“We’re excited to showcase all the holiday traditions downtown has to offer,” Sands said. “It’s about celebrating our community, supporting local businesses, and bringing people together.”

How to Get Involved

To nominate a tree or learn more about holiday events, visit daytonholidayfestival.org.

📍 Grand Illumination
Courthouse Square
Downtown Dayton, OH

🗓️ Friday, Nov. 28, 2025
Festivities start at 4 p.m. | Tree lighting at 6:30 p.m.