Join us at the historic Commander’s Mansion on Saturday, December 5, 2026, from 4:00–7:00 PM for Watertown’s official Merry Mingle Tree Lighting Celebration — a festive, family‑friendly evening of winter holiday cheer!

 

ACTIVITIES SCHEDULE (RAIN OR SHINE)

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4:00PM - Parade from Branch Line to the Commander's Mansion

Wear your most festive attire and meet at the roundabout across from Branch Line to line up for the parade. The parade will depart at 4:15 PM and head to the Merry Mingle tree lighting ceremony.

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4:30PM - Official Tree Lighting

Gather on the front lawn of the Commander’s Mansion and join the community countdown to the official tree lighting. One Watertown child — the winner of this year’s Coloring Contest — will serve as Tree Lighting Grand Marshal and pull the lever to illuminate the tree. Details and participation information are provided below.

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4:45PM - Merry Mingle Open House & Activities begin​​​

• Toy drive collection with the Whooley Foundation

• Santa photos with Natalie Nigito Photography

• Kids’ games hosted by the Watertown Recreation Department

• Cozy storytime with the Watertown Free Public Library

• Craft station

• Hot cocoa and treats 

• "Holidays around the World" experience inside the Mansion

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5:00PM - Watertown Public Schools Music Department Performance

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5:45PM - O'Shea Chaplin Irish Dancers

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6:30PM - Performance TBA

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7:00PM - Event Ends

 

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COLORING CONTEST

Your child could win the chance to be the Tree Lighting Grand Marshal and activate the Merry Mingle tree lighting!

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Contest Information:

• Artist must be a Watertown resident between 5-7 years old.

• Download and print the Merry Mingle 2026 coloring packet below, or pick-up a copy in-person (location TBA) beginning November 2.

• Artwork must be completed by the child independently, without adult assistance.

• Submit the completed coloring sheet and artist info sheet by November 23, 2026 either:

  • In-person (location TBA)

  • ​Via USPS mail to the address below (must be received by end of day November 23)

 

Watertown City Events Team

c/o Commander's Mansion​

440 Talcott Ave.

Watertown, MA 02472

 

The contest winner will be notified on Monday, November 30, 2026. The Grand Marshal must arrive by 4:00 PM on December 5 to participate in the parade and tree lighting. If the winner cannot attend, the runner‑up will be selected.​​​​​​​​​

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