Thanksgiving weekend has it all. An epic meal, football, family and friends, bargain hunting, holiday decorating, and, of course, delicious leftovers! It truly is a perfect combination, and something for everyone.

The celebrations could be considered launching on Wednesday. It starts with preparing the menu, and quite often continuing into Wednesday night catching up with friends at local establishments. Thursday the menu is the primary focal point but then comes the football huddle, and maybe a nap. Friday, the hunt for the perfect gift begins, followed by turkey sandwiches. On Small Business Saturday, shoppers are encouraged to support small, local businesses, and that means browsing Norwood’s many independent shops, or grabbing a bite at one of the town’s many local restaurants. And just when you think the weekend couldn’t get any better, Norwood has the perfect way to wrap it up — the Holiday Tree Lighting on Sunday, November 30!

This celebration captures the true spirit of the season; a joyful afternoon spent with family, friends, and neighbors before the Christmas rush begins. In true Norwood fashion, the town once again hosts a free, family-friendly event that has become one of its most beloved holiday traditions.

The Holiday Tree Lighting will take place on Sunday, Nov. 30, 1:30 to 4 p.m., on the Norwood Town Common. Kids can run in the Reindeer Dash, and families will enjoy horse-drawn hayrides, performances by the Madrigals, the Band Gig School of Music, and Kinetic Dance Studio, along with arts and crafts, games, face painting, and holiday readings. The afternoon concludes with a parade, and the much-anticipated arrival of Santa and Mrs. Clau, who will light up the Common to officially welcome the holiday season!

Once again, the Norwood Recreation Department has orchestrated a magical event for all ages. With three days of the Thanksgiving weekend already filled with tradition, why not reserve Sunday for a celebration that embodies the true meaning of the holidays; togetherness, joy, and community spirit.

Event Schedule — 

Sunday, Nov. 30

1:30–2 p.m.
Reindeer Dash

Kids are broken down into age groups for a fun race on Central St! Participants will receive a pair of antlers!

2–3:30 p.m.
Horse-Drawn Hayrides, Entertainment, Face Painting, Games, Arts & Crafts

3:35 p.m.
Parade departs Guild Square, heading toward the Town Common

3:45 p.m.
Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive to “Light Up Norwood” on the Town Common

(Schedule subject to change depending on weather.)

Norwood residents often agree — and proudly say — that no town celebrates quite like Norwood! This year’s Holiday Tree Lighting is the perfect way to reconnect with friends and neighbors and kick off the most wonderful time of the year.