Lighting of the Park

On Friday, November 21 from 4pm to 9pm in Centennial Commons, Royal Oak Holidays kicks off with the Lighting of the Park!

Enjoy ice-skating at The Rink, Visits with Santa, carnival rides, food trucks, live music and more, culminating with the lighting of Centennial Commons, including the Giant Oak Tree!

The Lighting of the Park Ceremony will take place on the steps of the Royal Oak Public Library and features live music from local musicians and school groups, a surprise visit from Santa, a skating performance from members of Team USA, and the annual Beacon of Light Awards.

Two Beacon of Light Awards will be given out to individuals who have shown outstanding leadership, community-building and a dedication to helping others.

Additionally, the Lighting of the Park will be partnering with the Metro Detroit Youth Club’s (MDYC) Holiday Basket Program. Guests can bring 4 canned food goods or a $2 donation per child to receive unlimited mini carnival rides and inflatables! For nearly 45 years, MDYC has brought joy and relief to thousands of families and senior citizens during the holiday season through this program, which provides food, gifts and essential items to those in need.

Metro Detroit Youth Clubs' Holiday Basket Program

At the Grand Opening of the Royal Oak Holiday Village on Friday, November 21 from 4pm – 9pm, bring 4 canned food goods or a $2 donation per child to receive unlimited mini carnival rides and inflatables!

The canned food goods will be donated to the Metro Detroit Youth Clubs' Holiday Basket Program: A Season of Giving and Impact. For nearly 45 years, Metro Detroit Youth Clubs (MDYC) has brought joy and relief to thousands of families and senior citizens during the holiday season through the Holiday Basket Program. The program provides food, gifts, and essential items to those in need, ensuring they feel supported during a time that can often be challenging.

 Volunteers, local businesses, service clubs, and individual donors have long united to make this initiative possible. Their longstanding partnership with Holiday Market has been essential, generating food that is packaged and distributed to families and seniors across our community.

Your involvement—whether through donations, volunteer time, or participating in the food drive—will ensure that MDYC continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of families and seniors during the holidays. Join us in spreading joy, kindness, and community spirit this holiday season!