December First Friday: Once Upon A Holiday
Description
Step into the sparkle of the season as the magic begins in the heart of Downtown Bloomington!
Gather around the Downtown Square at 4:30pm for the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, featuring community groups and a live holiday performance sure to fill the evening air with wonder and cheer. Then, watch the Downtown tree shimmer to life with twinkling lights, officially casting its holiday glow over the season!
After the BIG moment, let the enchantment lead you through the square as Downtown comes alive with festive discoveries around every corner. Art galleries will be open, pop-up vendors will be waiting at select locations, and beloved Bruce the Talking Spruce will make his magical return!
Continue the celebration with December First Friday as Downtown businesses compete for the title of Best Live Window Vignette of 2026. Enjoy imaginative holiday displays, seasonal specials, glowing storefronts, and warm welcomes in every shop!
It’s an evening of lights, laughter, art, shopping, and merry surprises — a storybook start to the holidays and the perfect way to make a little Downtown magic part of your season!
Gather around the Downtown Square at 4:30pm for the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, featuring community groups and a live holiday performance sure to fill the evening air with wonder and cheer. Then, watch the Downtown tree shimmer to life with twinkling lights, officially casting its holiday glow over the season!
After the BIG moment, let the enchantment lead you through the square as Downtown comes alive with festive discoveries around every corner. Art galleries will be open, pop-up vendors will be waiting at select locations, and beloved Bruce the Talking Spruce will make his magical return!
Continue the celebration with December First Friday as Downtown businesses compete for the title of Best Live Window Vignette of 2026. Enjoy imaginative holiday displays, seasonal specials, glowing storefronts, and warm welcomes in every shop!
It’s an evening of lights, laughter, art, shopping, and merry surprises — a storybook start to the holidays and the perfect way to make a little Downtown magic part of your season!
Last updated: August 18, 2026
