Click photo to view the full 2023 Heritage Tree lighting event video!

Yearly Holiday Lighting Event
The 31st Encinitas Heritage Tree Holiday Lighting Event was held on December 5, 2025, in the Moonlight Beach parking lot and welcomed approximately 500 attendees. Hosted by EHS Chair Jim Filanc, the celebration featured a holiday message from Mayor Bruce Ehlers, performances by four children’s choirs, music by the Free Verse band, and a special visit from the North Pole. The climactic countdown and lighting took place just as the final colors of sunset faded over the Pacific Ocean.

The Heritage Tree
The Heritage Tree is a Norfolk Island pine planted in 1952 by brothers Peter and John Danforth as a 3‑foot sapling. Today it rises more than 90 feet above the corner of 4th Street and C Street, standing watch over Moonlight Beach. In 2011, the City of Encinitas designated it as one of only two official Heritage Trees.

Event Origins
The lighting tradition began in 1994 when local resident Luis Ortiz sought—and received—permission from the Danforth family to decorate the tree. Using his own resources and rallying community support, Ortiz launched what has since become a cherished Encinitas holiday tradition.

Encinitas Historical Society
Since 2015, the Encinitas Historical Society has organized and hosted the annual lighting with support from the City of Encinitas, local sponsors, the Encinitas Union School District, and dedicated volunteers. The Society oversees the tree’s decoration and maintenance, ensuring that this beloved community tradition continues for generations to come.

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Donations

The EHS relies on grants, bequests, and donations to fulfill its mission.

We have 501(c)3 status, so all donations are tax-deductible; receipts will be issued for all forms of payment.

Donate at your convenience:

a) Point your camera at the QR code to pay with credit card, Venmo, CashApp, Apple Pay, PayPal, etc.

b) Click this line to donate with credit card, Venmo, CashApp, Apple Pay, PayPal, etc.

c) Mail a check payable to the Encinitas Historical Society, and addressed – 1883 Schoolhouse, Re: Donation, 390 West F Street, Encinitas CA 92024. Please provide your email address and phone number.

d) Visit our Schoolhouse and be amazed by our racks of thematic gifts!