A Coastal Christmas Spectacle: The San Clemente Christmas Tree Lighting 2024
The 10th annual Christmas tree lighting celebration at the Outlets at San Clemente on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, once again united residents and visitors for an enchanting evening of music, community, and holiday cheer. The event, which has become a signature San Clemente tradition, offered something for everyone, from captivating performances to the debut of the new Santa Clemente Village.
A Decade of Holiday Memories
What began as a modest tree-lighting ceremony has flourished into a cherished tradition that draws hundreds of attendees each year. This transformation reflects San Clemente’s vibrant community spirit, showcasing the city's pride, creativity, and commitment to fostering togetherness during the holiday season. Over time, the event has evolved into a centerpiece of festive celebrations in the coastal town, bringing residents and visitors together in joyful anticipation.
Katy Ciotti, senior marketing manager at the Outlets at San Clemente, emphasized the event's role in uniting the community. “This event is always a very special way to bring the community together and officially kick off the holidays,” Ciotti shared. Her words capture the heart of the tree lighting, which has become a symbol of the city’s holiday spirit and a highlight of the season for many families.
The 10th annual tree lighting marked a significant milestone, cementing its legacy in San Clemente’s history. The celebration has grown substantially over the past decade, with each year introducing new features and expanding its offerings. The event now includes family-friendly activities, dynamic live performances, and creative touches that reflect San Clemente’s unique seaside charm.
This year’s festivities were especially memorable, combining the warmth of tradition with the excitement of innovation. From the vibrant decorations to the thematic Santa Clemente Village, every detail embodied the city's coastal identity and festive cheer. As San Clemente continues to embrace and expand this annual event, its tree lighting ceremony remains a testament to the city’s dedication to community, creativity, and holiday magic.
Introducing Santa Clemente Village
This year’s festivities were elevated by the debut of Santa Clemente Village, a whimsical addition that brought a uniquely coastal flair to the holiday celebration. Encircling the base of the towering 40-foot Christmas tree, the village transformed the heart of the event into a seaside winter wonderland. Its design and atmosphere beautifully reflected the beachside culture that defines San Clemente.
Families and visitors were enchanted by the village’s attractions, which included a festive post office where children eagerly mailed their letters to Santa, a surf shop infused with holiday spirit, and a vibrant candy store stocked with treats for all ages. These creative touches not only added fun but also blended the enchantment of the holidays with the breezy, laid-back charm of coastal living.
“The Santa Clemente Village was such a fun addition,” shared local resident Maria Gonzalez. “It really captured what makes our town so special—it’s festive but still has that coastal charm.” Her sentiments echoed the feelings of many attendees who appreciated how the event celebrated both the holiday spirit and the unique character of San Clemente.
This new feature has set a high bar for future celebrations, leaving attendees buzzing about the creativity and thoughtfulness behind its design. Santa Clemente Village served as a perfect bridge between tradition and innovation, reinforcing the community’s pride in their seaside home while embracing the festive joy of the season.
Celebrating Community Through Performance
Music and performances have long been at the heart of San Clemente’s tree lighting event, and this year’s entertainment lineup was nothing short of spectacular. The crowd was treated to a memorable evening of live music, headlined by Caleb Lee Hutchinson, a singer-songwriter and American Idol finalist. Other performances included uplifting songs from Calvary South OC Worship, festive melodies by Full Circle Boys, and the dazzling talents of the Orange County School of the Arts’ Montage ensemble.
The variety of performances ensured there was something for everyone to enjoy, from soul-stirring worship music to high-energy renditions of holiday classics. This eclectic mix not only entertained but also embodied the event’s spirit of inclusivity and community celebration. Each act brought its unique flair, making the evening feel vibrant and dynamic.
For attendees like Lisa Martinez, a longtime resident, the performances were a highlight of the event. “We love coming here every year to see the performances,” Martinez shared as her two children danced and sang along. “The kids were having a blast, and it’s such a wonderful way to kick off the holiday season.” Her joy reflected the sentiments of many families who see the tree lighting as a cherished tradition.
These musical acts did more than provide entertainment—they helped to deepen the sense of togetherness that defines San Clemente. As the evening’s melodies echoed through the crowd, they served as a reminder of the shared joy and connection that make the holidays special.
The Voices of San Clemente
The voices of the community resonated throughout the event, adding a deeply personal touch to the evening’s festivities. Families, performers, and organizers alike shared their perspectives, painting a vivid picture of what makes the tree lighting more than just a holiday gathering. Their reflections underscored the heart of the celebration—unity, pride, and tradition.
“This event is about more than just lighting a tree,” said Jim Reynolds, a local business owner and longtime attendee. “It’s about connecting with your neighbors, supporting local businesses, and celebrating what makes San Clemente home.” For Reynolds and many others, the tree lighting is a cherished opportunity to strengthen bonds within the community while embracing the holiday spirit.
Performers, too, felt the significance of their participation. Several expressed gratitude for contributing to a tradition that holds such meaning for San Clemente. “It’s an honor to perform for our community,” shared a student from the Orange County School of the Arts. “We get to spread holiday cheer while being part of something so special to San Clemente.” Their enthusiasm reflected the joy of being both contributors and participants in a shared celebration.
These personal stories highlighted the tree lighting’s role as more than a festive event—it’s a reflection of San Clemente’s character. By bringing people together, it celebrates the city’s values of connection, creativity, and a deep sense of belonging.
Local Businesses Take Center Stage
A central feature of the celebration was its focus on supporting local businesses, offering a vibrant array of vendors that showcased the creativity and talent of San Clemente’s artisans. From handcrafted holiday gifts to seasonal treats, the event provided a platform for local entrepreneurs to connect with the community and share their work. These vendors played a pivotal role in enriching the event’s festive atmosphere.
For attendees, the vendor stalls brought a sense of holiday magic to the event. Children delighted in fresh-baked cookies, while adults enjoyed hot cocoa from nearby cafés, savoring the warm beverages as they strolled through the festive village. "We always look forward to seeing what the vendors have to offer," said one attendee. "It’s a great way to shop local and find unique gifts." The opportunity to shop locally while enjoying the festivities was a highlight for many.
By spotlighting local businesses, the tree lighting not only strengthened the community but also helped boost the local economy. Attendees supported small businesses while finding one-of-a-kind gifts, all while embracing the spirit of the holiday season. This symbiotic relationship between the event and the local economy reinforced the event’s role in San Clemente’s continued growth and prosperity.
The emphasis on supporting local vendors is an essential part of the event’s charm. It reflects San Clemente’s commitment to fostering a thriving community where both residents and businesses can flourish. By nurturing these connections, the tree lighting has become a meaningful tradition that benefits not just attendees but also the local economy
.
Family-Friendly Fun
Families were central to the evening’s festivities, with a variety of activities designed to engage children and create lasting memories. The event offered a wide range of options, from crafting stations and holiday-themed games to interactive attractions like the newly introduced Santa Clemente Village. These activities allowed kids to fully immerse themselves in the joy and magic of the season.
“The kids loved it,” shared Andrea Lopez, a parent attending with her family. “The surf shop in Santa Clemente Village was such a hit, and they were so excited to mail their letters to Santa.” These interactive experiences, which blended holiday fun with the coastal charm of San Clemente, were a clear favorite among young attendees.
Elements like these ensured that the event was not only enjoyable for children but also stress-free for parents. The thoughtful design of the activities allowed families to spend quality time together, knowing there were plenty of engaging options for kids. Parents could relax and enjoy the celebration, while their children explored and participated in the various attractions.
By focusing on family-friendly activities, the tree lighting created a welcoming environment where both children and adults could make the most of the holiday experience. Whether it was through crafts, games, or the excitement of the Santa Clemente Village, the event made it easy for families to embrace the holiday spirit and create cherished memories.
A Coastal Holiday Wonderland
San Clemente’s coastal charm was beautifully reflected in every aspect of the holiday celebration, creating a unique seaside holiday experience. The decorations featured nautical elements, from seashells to beach-inspired motifs, all while artificial snowflakes gently floated down against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. This seamless blend of coastal beauty and holiday magic created a surreal, unforgettable atmosphere.
The lighting of the towering 40-foot Christmas tree was the highlight of the evening. As the crowd gathered in anticipation, everyone joined in the countdown to the big moment. When the lights finally illuminated the tree, thousands of sparkling lights lit up the night sky, drawing cheers and applause from the crowd. The collective excitement of the community was palpable as the holiday season officially kicked off.
Adding to the enchantment, snow machines provided an extra touch of magic, releasing a flurry of artificial snow that fell gently over the audience. The sight of snowflakes against the coastal backdrop was a stunning contrast, reinforcing the event’s coastal identity while still capturing the essence of a traditional winter holiday.
Throughout the evening, holiday music played in the background, further enhancing the festive mood and making the event feel like a true winter wonderland by the sea. The lighting ceremony, complete with the snowy atmosphere and beautiful tree, captured the heart of San Clemente’s holiday spirit, offering a magical experience for everyone in attendance.
A Feast for the Senses
The event came alive through its rich sensory details, creating an immersive experience for all who attended. The scent of cinnamon and cocoa mixed with the salty ocean breeze, enhancing the festive atmosphere. Harmonious carolers filled the air with music, while the joyful laughter of children resonated throughout Santa Clemente Village, adding to the lively energy of the evening.
For many attendees, the event felt like "pure magic." One local noted, “There’s just something about seeing the snow fall while standing by the ocean—it’s so unique to San Clemente.” This special blend of coastal charm and holiday spirit made the experience unforgettable, capturing the essence of the city’s unique holiday celebration.
Building Traditions and Anticipation
For many residents, the tree lighting event has become more than just a one-night celebration—it’s a treasured tradition that marks the official start of the holiday season. Longtime resident Susan Albright, who has attended every year since the event’s inception, reflected on its growth and significance. “It’s amazing to see how it’s grown. It feels like the whole city comes out to celebrate,” she said, highlighting the sense of community that defines the event.
Looking ahead, the Outlets at San Clemente are committed to continuing the tree lighting tradition and making it an even bigger part of the city’s holiday festivities. For those planning to attend next year, organizers suggest arriving early to secure the best spots for viewing performances and the highly anticipated tree lighting. The Outlets also offer plenty of parking and a range of dining options, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all attendees.
The tree lighting event is just the beginning of a festive season at the Outlets at San Clemente. Throughout December, the Outlets will host additional events, offering shopping deals, seasonal activities, and holiday-themed attractions. This ensures that visitors have plenty to look forward to beyond the opening night, with something for everyone to enjoy during the holiday season.
For both residents and visitors, the annual tree lighting and the series of events that follow create a festive atmosphere that brings the community together. The Outlets at San Clemente have firmly established themselves as a focal point for holiday celebrations, offering fun and memorable experiences for all ages.
