Norwood Wraps Up Thanksgiving Weekend with Holiday Magic

The turkey has been carved, the leftovers are packed away, the Black Friday bargains have been bought (and for those ambitious shoppers, maybe even wrapped). It’s official. The holiday season has begun!  But before Thanksgiving weekend comes to a close, Norwood has one more tradition to celebrate, and it might just be the most magical one of all!

On Sunday, November 29, the Norwood Town Common will once again be transformed into a festive gathering place as families, friends, and neighbors come together for the town’s annual Holiday Tree Lighting celebration.

Hosted by the Norwood Recreation Department, this much-loved community tradition is the perfect way to trade in the Thanksgiving turkey for a little Christmas magic. Best of all, the afternoon is free and filled with activities for the entire family.

The festivities begin at 2 p.m. with the popular Reindeer Dash, giving Norwood’s youngest residents an opportunity to burn off some of that Thanksgiving weekend energy! Runners will be divided into age groups for a friendly race along Central Street, complete with reindeer antlers to add to the fun.

The reindeers are only just the beginning! From 2 to 4 p.m., the Town Common will be buzzing with more holiday excitement! Families can enjoy horse-drawn hayrides, face painting, games, arts and crafts, and holiday readings. Live entertainment will also add to the festive atmosphere.

Of course, no holiday celebration would be complete without a visit from the North Pole’s most famous couple!

At approximately 3:35 p.m., a festive parade will depart Guild Square and make its way toward the Town Common. At 3:45 p.m., Santa and Mrs. Claus will make their grand entrance to help “Light Up Norwood,” and officially usher in the holiday season.

For children, it’s an afternoon filled with anticipation and excitement. For adults, an opportunity to slow down, reconnect with neighbors, and enjoy the simple pleasures that make small-town celebrations so special.

And that’s really what Norwood’s Holiday Tree Lighting is all about. In a season that can quickly become consumed by shopping lists, decorating, baking, and busy schedules, this annual event offers a welcoming opportunity to start the holiday with family, friendship, and the community.

Thanksgiving weekend also provides a wonderful opportunity to support Norwood’s local businesses. After the excitement of Black Friday, Small Business Saturday encourages residents to shop close to home, visit their favorite independent retailers, discover new businesses, and perhaps enjoy a meal at one of Norwood’s many restaurants.

Thanksgiving Weekend Schedule

Friday, Nov. 27

Black Friday

Saturday, Nov. 28

Small Business Saturday

Don’t forget to support Norwood’s local businesses

Sunday, November 29
Norwood Town Common | 2–4 p.m.

2 p.m. | Reindeer Dash

Children will be divided into age groups for a fun race along Central Street. Participants will receive reindeer antlers.

2–3:30 p.m. | Holiday Activities and Entertainment

Horse-drawn hayrides, live performances, face painting, games, arts and crafts, and holiday readings.

3:35 p.m. | Holiday Parade

The parade departs Guild Square and heads toward the Town Common.

3:45 p.m. | Santa and Mrs. Claus Arrive

The guests of honor make their grand entrance to “Light Up Norwood” and officially welcome the holiday season.

Schedule is subject to change depending on weather conditions.

A Tradition Worth Celebrating

There’s something special about a New England town coming together during the holidays. The familiar faces, the children’s excitement, the music, and the glow of the lights all create memories that last long after the decorations have been packed away.

Norwood has never been a town that needs much of an excuse to celebrate, and the annual Holiday Tree Lighting is another example of the community spirit residents have come to know and love.

So, after the Thanksgiving feast, the football games, the holiday bargains, and maybe one too many turkey sandwiches, save a little energy for Sunday afternoon.

Because in Norwood, Thanksgiving weekend doesn’t simply end. It lights up!