One of Fort Wayne’s most popular traditions, Christmas on Broadway has helped kick off the holiday season for two decades. And after 20 years, it just seems to be getting more popular. 

This year’s celebration takes place Friday, Nov. 22, beginning at 5:30 p.m. in Broadway Plaza, located in front of the Shine & Hardin building and Rune, 2725 Broadway. 

The event attracts thousands of people each year. So, you’ll want to get there early to find a good spot around the tree and have time to enjoy the wide myriad of festivities that include a parade down Broadway led by the Concordia Lutheran High School marching band and featuring the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus. 

After their entrance into Broadway Plaza, the featured couple will hand out Santa hats, candy canes, mini flashlights, and key chains to all the children. 

In addition, attendees will have a unique opportunity to visit with some of Santa’s reindeer during the evening as well as giving their children and opportunity to ride the “Polar Express,” a miniature, Christmas-themed train. 

Of course, the highlight of the night is the lighting of the Christmas tree, a 40-foot Colorado spruce dedicated this year to the memory of Michael Franke, the late president and one of the owners of the Fort Wayne Komets who passed away last year shortly after the tree lighting. 

The event will also help support The Boys & Girls Clubs of Fort Wayne with many of the children helping out through the night.

In addition, food truck and beverage trucks will be on-site to make holiday revelers’ visit even more fun and enticing.