Holiday tradition returns to Otay Ranch Town Center

Long before online shopping and digital wish lists, the holidays meant twinkling lights, carolers, and a community coming together to celebrate the season. That festive spirit returns as Otay Ranch Town Center in Chula Vista hosts its 19th Annual Tree Lighting and Holiday Market on Tuesday, Nov. 18, from 4 to 7 p.m.

This all-ages celebration draws several thousand visitors each year for an evening packed with music, performances, and plenty of holiday sparkle.

“We will welcome several thousand of our local neighbors at the event, similar to previous years,” said Tim Kilcourse, GM at Otay Ranch Town Center. “As the event has grown and grown, attendance has increased steadily each year.”

This year’s big addition is a life-size snow globe photo station, where guests can step inside for a magical winter photo surrounded by twinkling lights and artificial snow.

“While the tree lighting itself is a traditional favorite, we are always looking for new enhancements to delight our guests,” Kilcourse said.

“We wanted to bring something into the center fountain pavilion area that would encourage memory-making and a takeaway for everyone.”

The fun starts at 4 p.m. with community performances, including local schools, Inspire Ballet, and San Diego Gymnastics, followed by Santa’s grand arrival at 7 p.m.

“Santa arrives in grand style in a Chula Vista Fire Truck with lights and sirens,” Kilcourse said. “He’ll be joined on stage by our emcee, Xavier the X-Man, for a countdown where everyone is encouraged to shout along from ten to one for the big moment.”

When Santa lights the 50-foot Christmas tree on Main Street, guests can expect more than just a glow. The tree dazzles with more than 17,000 lights, 1,000 ornaments, and a color-changing base that lights up with the Otay Ranch Town Center logo, a favorite spot for family photos.

Throughout the evening, visitors can enjoy complimentary cookies and hot chocolate while supplies last, a magical snowfall in the courtyard, holiday crafts for kids, and a festive Farmers Market featuring unique seasonal vendors.

“Our Farmers Market has been part of the tree lighting since the beginning,” Kilcourse said. “Much like the event itself, the market has grown and grown, featuring an assortment of unique and seasonal vendors that come in for the night to jump-start the holiday shopping season.”

Main Street will be closed for the event, with additional parking and security staff helping guests navigate the busy evening. The celebration remains free and family-friendly, with something for everyone to enjoy.

“We’re a true town center, and this event reflects that,” Kilcourse said. “Entertainment for all ages, activities for kids, and a celebration of all the best that Chula Vista has to offer.”

The holiday fun continues beyond tree lighting night, with photos with Santa, pet photo nights, and outdoor holiday movie screenings planned throughout the season. Guests can visit www.otayranchtowncenter.com for a full schedule of events.

Bundle up, bring your camera, and get ready for a little holiday magic under the Chula Vista sky. It’s the perfect way to kick off the season.
Otay Ranch Town Center 19th Annual Tree Lighting & Holiday Market

Date: Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025

Time: 4–7 p.m. (Tree lighting at 7 p.m. sharp)

Location: Otay Ranch Town Center, Main Street Pavilion, 2015 Birch Road in Chula Vista

Highlights: Santa’s arrival, 50-foot tree, snow globe photo station, Farmers Market, live entertainment, cookies, cocoa, and snow flurries
Admission: Free