Ventnor’s holiday calendar begins with one of the community’s most anticipated December traditions — the annual Tree & Menorah Lighting Ceremony at City Hall. The celebration takes place on Friday, December 5 at 5:30 PM, bringing families, neighbors, and local officials together for a warm kickoff to the season. According to Downbeach event updates, the ceremony will be followed by a community pizza buffet, giving attendees a chance to linger, talk, and enjoy the start of the holidays together.

A Welcoming Tradition at Ventnor City Hall

Set along the familiar block near Ventnor Avenue, City Hall serves as the backdrop for a ceremony that blends holiday lights, community gathering, and a shared sense of Downbeach togetherness. The lighting itself typically includes:

• The official holiday tree lighting

• The menorah illumination

• Seasonal music

• A short community gathering afterward

Families often arrive early to grab a good viewing spot, especially near the main lawn area where the tree and menorah are positioned.

Following the Lighting: Community Pizza Buffet

One of the elements that makes this event uniquely Ventnor is the tradition of holding a community pizza buffet immediately after the ceremony. It’s informal, friendly, and intentionally simple — a chance for neighbors to warm up, share a slice, and stay for conversation.

Parents often mention how the casual setting makes it easy to attend with younger kids, and the timing (5:30 PM) keeps it accessible even for families juggling after-school or early evening commitments.

A Seasonal Moment Along Ventnor Avenue

Because City Hall sits close to the stretch of Ventnor Avenue used for many community events, the lighting ceremony naturally fits into the rhythm of the town’s December celebrations. As people gather, you’ll see a mix of longtime residents walking from nearby blocks like Somerset Avenue and Portland Avenue, second homeowners who happen to be in town, and families who return each year as part of their early-season traditions.

Crowds usually range from modest to comfortably busy, creating a warm atmosphere without the congestion of larger parades.

Ventnor Vibes

There’s a calm charm to watching the holiday lights come on at City Hall as the sun sets over the Downbeach skyline. Parents with strollers gather near the walkway, kids point excitedly at the lights, and neighbors call out greetings to one another. The menorah’s glow alongside the tree brings a sense of shared celebration across different traditions.

These are the small, familiar moments that give Ventnor its winter personality — simple events that bring people together in ways that feel authentic to the town’s character.

Tips for Attendees

If you plan to stop by for the ceremony, a few quick notes can make the experience smoother:

• Arrive a little early: The lawn area fills quickly for photos.

• Bundle up: The bay breeze can move inland more than expected.

• Use nearby side streets for parking: Atlantic Avenue and areas behind City Hall offer more flexibility.

• Stay for the pizza buffet: It’s an easy way to extend the evening and chat with neighbors.
  

FAQ: Ventnor Tree & Menorah Lighting

Is the ceremony free?
Yes. The event is fully open to the public.

Is the pizza buffet included?
Yes. The community buffet is part of the celebration.

How long does the event last?
Most people stay 30–60 minutes, depending on how long they remain after the lighting.

Final Thoughts

Ventnor’s Tree & Menorah Lighting ceremony captures the spirit of the season in a simple, inclusive, and family-friendly way. With music, lights, and a community meal, it sets the tone for the town’s December celebrations and offers a heartfelt start to the holidays.

Sources: Downbeach event listings