The Syracuse tree lighting is a Black Friday tradition and it's still happening this year, but it's going virtual.

The "Home for the Holidays" event takes place in Clinton Square every year.

This year, Mayor Ben Walsh will flip the lights on the Christmas tree, and you'll be able to watch live from home.

The city announced a dedicated website, SyracuseTreeLighting.com that will live stream the event. It will also be streamed on the City of Syracuse YouTube page.

An hour-long show of entertainment and appearances will precede Walsh turning on the lights on the tree. The fun all begins at 6 p.m.

Featured acts will include:

  • AJR
  • Shaed
  • TrumpTight 315
  • Victory Temple Youth Choir
  • Latin/Soul Trombone Player Melissa Gardiner
  • Syracuse City Ballet 
  • Symphoria Youth Orchestra and more

The special will also feature many familiar faces in local politics and media, including guests Ted and Amy in the Morning from WNTQ, Rick Roberts, with Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon, and Deputy Mayor Sharon Owens. 

“Syracuse will be proud of this show. It features first rate production value and includes nationally known musical acts, along with local talent,” said Mayor Walsh in a statement Friday. “It also highlights our community’s rich diversity including holiday greetings delivered by local residents in more than 15 languages. This program really is the next best thing to being there.”