Photostory: Harlem welcomes the holidays with annual tree lighting

Children gather for photos next to the lit Christmas tree at the Harlem Tree Lighting. Staff photo by Drew Wall.

Date: November 21, 2025

The City of Harlem kicked off the holiday season Thursday night as families gathered at the Harlem Library Plaza for the annual Christmas tree lighting. The event took place at 6 p.m. and brought neighbors together for a cheerful countdown as the plaza lit up for the holidays

Families gather and countdown for the lighting of the tree at the annual Harlem tree lighting. Video by Drew Wall.
Families gather around awaiting the countdown of the tree lighting. Staff photo by Drew Wall.
Parents gather around the stage to watch their children sing Christmas songs before the tree lighting. Staff photo by Drew Wall
Children gather for a photo next to the lit Christmas tree. Staff photo by Drew Wall
Families chat and take pictures after the lighting of the tree. Staff photo by Drew Wall.
Hundreds of parents and children stay well after the lighting of the Christmas tree to chat and hangout. Video by Drew Wall.

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