Santa Ana kicked off the holiday season this weekend with Plaza Navideña — the city’s Christmas festival and tree-lighting ceremony.

Held in Downtown Santa Ana’s Plaza Calle Cuatro on 4th and French streets, attendees were welcomed by Mayor Valerie Amezcua and participated in some holiday trivia as they waited for Santa Claus to arrive.

Local residents and visitors joined in celebration as Amezcua led the countdown for the tree-lighting ceremony, which featured a 30-foot natural fir tree. Families posed for Christmas photos with Santa Claus and enjoyed community performances, games, crafts and ended the night with a dance party.

Folclor Mi Mexico dancers, based in Anaheim, perform on stage during Santa Ana’s annual Plaza Navideña celebration and tree lighting, November 22, 2025, at Plaz

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