Christmas Tree Lighting & Drone Show

Onslow County Parks and Recreation invites the community to join them for their third Annual Christmas Tree Lighting from 2-6PM on Sunday, December 10, 2023 at Onslow Pines Park located at 1244 Onslow Pines Road, Jacksonville, NC.

This year there is a special “Lights Over Onslow” show planned at 5PM that includes over 100 synchronized drones flying 400 feet in the air above the trees, moving through various choreographed aerial formations. The three-dimensional seasonal shapes and characters can be seen up to foLights Over Onslowur miles away.

Recreation Supervisor, LaQuesha Cadwallader says it is important to help families enter into the holiday with a magical celebration and help them enjoy a moment of rest, peace, and hope. “Our department thrives on the smiles of our community in every event we host, and we are excited to bring this unique experience to Onslow County. Drone light shows blend art and technology to create mesmerizing patterns, shapes, and animations in the sky.”

The drone light show is led by Pixis Drones, a Virginia-based production company that has performed at events such as the Super Bowl LVI, FIFA World Cup, NBA draft, and the Olympics. The 10-minute show will lead into the countdown for the lighting of the 40ft. Christmas tree. 

This annual event is family-friendly and admission is free with opportunities for pictures with Soulful Santa, face painting, trackless train rides, and holiday themed crafts. There will be local talent such as the Lejeune Dance Theatre, Richlands Dance Factory, Richlands High School Choir, and Southwest High School Choir providing entertainment. Local vendors and food trucks will be onsite with goods for purchase.

Toys for Tots will be on scene collecting new and unwrapped toy donations in exchange for a cup of hot cocoa and a s’mores roasting kit. Onslow County Animal Services will also be present and available to adopt out some of their animals as well as provide information on responsible pet ownership.

Sunday, December 10
2PM - 6PM
Onslow Pines Park

  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3
  4. 4
  5. 5
  6. 6


  • Drone Light Show
  • Pictures with Soulful Santa
  • Hot Cocoa
  • Fire Pit and Smores
  • Trackless Train
  • Christmas Crafts
  • Food Trucks
  • Small Business Vendors
  • 40-ft Christmas Tree Lighting