Tap Dancing Christmas Trees and annual tree lighting at Jack London Square

The holiday is in full swing and the season kicks off Friday evening with the Jack London Square’s Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony.

The free festivities run from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. but the highlight is lighting the 55-foot Mount Shasta Fire tree adorned with 5,000 sparkling white lights and 600 ornaments at 6 p.m. There will be live music, arts groups, pop-up shops, a performance by Tap Dancing Christmas Trees, and a special appearance by Santa.

In the spirit of the season, the public is asked to bring unwrapped toys, gently worn coats and non-perishable food items to donate to the Alameda County Food Bank, the Oakland Fire Department and One Warm Coast.
 

KTVU anchor Gasia Mikaelian will host the event at Jack London Square on Broadway at Embarcadero West.