Stearns Wharf prepares for Holiday Tree Lighting in Santa Barbara

SANTA BARBARA, Calif - The community is invited to Stearns Wharf annual Holiday Tree Lighting to kick off the holiday season.

At 5:00 p.m., before the start of the Parade of Lights boat parade, organizers will switch on the lights of a beautiful 25-foot Nobel Fir on Stearns Wharf to officially open the holiday season for the waterfront.

The Dos Pueblos Jazz Choir starts at 5:00, the 37th Annual Parade of Lights starts at 5:30 p.m., with some 30 boats motoring and sailing the Santa Barbara coastline.

The fireworks start after the Boat Parade at 7:00 p.m.

Judging for the parade takes place from the West side of Stearns Wharf.

Community members are encouraged to start the holiday season with dinner, a treat, or some holiday shopping.

Gift certificates are available at Wharf businesses.

Parking is available on Stearns Wharf if parked prior to 3:30 p.m., as well as at the Chase Palm Park & Garden Street parking lots.

The first 90-minutes of parking on the wharf is free.