Philadelphia

Philadelphia Welcomes the Holiday Season with a Dazzling Tree Lighting and Performances by Ashanti and Lalah Hathaway

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Published on December 05, 2025
Philadelphia Welcomes the Holiday Season with a Dazzling Tree Lighting and Performances by Ashanti and Lalah HathawaySource: Google Street View

Last night, Philadelphia’s City Hall was a spectacle of festive cheer as Mayor Cherelle L. Parker along with other City officials gathered for the annual Holiday Tree Lighting Celebration. The event, hosted on the North Apron of City Hall, is reported to have kicked off at 6:30 p.m., ushering in the holiday season with style and song.

According to the official press release, the celebration was produced by Welcome America, Inc. in partnership with the Office of the City Representative. It featured the Philly Holiday Tree, set to brightly shine and become a beacon of seasonal joy to residents and visitors alike. But it wasn’t just the tree that was set to illuminate the evening – a special performance was anticipated to surely make the crowd sway.

GRAMMY® Award-winning artist Ashanti graced the stage, bringing her vocal prowess to the festivities. She was joined by none other than Lalah Hathaway, herself a five-time GRAMMY® Award winner. An additional layer of excitement was added as Mayor Parker took part in the holiday tradition.