FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contacts:
Natalie Stavale / 248-417-8510
Blake Roselle / 231-631-6675
Downtown Detroit Partnership and WDIV Local 4 Announce Exclusive Broadcast Partnership for Annual Detroit Tree Lighting
The Station Known for Detroit’s BIG EVENTS Expands Holiday Programming elevates Detroit’s signature holiday tradition
DETROIT (Oct. 21, 2025) — The Downtown Detroit Partnership (DDP) and WDIV Local 4 today announced a new broadcast rights partnership for the 22nd annual Detroit Tree Lighting presented by DTE Energy Foundation and produced by the Downtown Detroit Partnership taking place on Friday, Nov. 21, 2025, in the award-winning Campus Martius Park in Downtown Detroit. This marks a significant evolution in the presentation of Detroit’s holiday tradition, expanding the on-air program from one hour to two hours and including full day lead-up coverage, streaming on Local 4+ and ClickOnDetroit.
Shifting to our NBC-affiliated station allows DDP and WDIV to position the Detroit Tree Lighting within the city’s premier lineup of “big event” broadcasts, enhancing visibility for audiences, partners and the Downtown Detroit brand. The expanded two-hour production will also allow the DDP to join an unprecedented lineup of television events on WDIV Local 4 in just the next several months, like America’s Thanksgiving Parade, the Detroit Auto Show, the Super Bowl, the Winter Olympics, the NBA All Star Weekend, among others. Together, these events create a powerful platform to showcase Detroit’s creativity, community, and spirit to audiences across the region.
“Detroit’s Tree Lighting is a moment that brings our community together, and through this partnership with WDIV, we’re expanding the experience on TV, online and in digital spaces,” said Eric B. Larson, CEO of Downtown Detroit Partnership. “With an expanded two hours of live broadcast, integrated streaming and direct sponsor opportunities, this new arrangement helps keep this iconic event fresh, sustainable and more accessible than ever.”
Under the terms of the partnership, WDIV will serve as the exclusive, multi-year, official broadcast partner and will handle live coverage on television and digital streaming platforms; and sponsors will gain dedicated access to broadcast ad space and integrated content opportunities not previously offered.
“Detroit’s Tree Lighting is more than just flipping a switch — it’s a moment that kicks off the season and brings our entire city together,” said Bob Ellis, vice president and general manager of WDIV Local 4. “WDIV is proud to partner with the DDP to bring this celebration into homes across Metro Detroit in a way that’s never been done before — blending the excitement of the live event with the magic of broadcast.”
About the Downtown Detroit Partnership
Since 1922, the Downtown Detroit Partnership (DDP) has worked to cultivate social and economic impact in Downtown Detroit. As a member-based nonprofit, the DDP convenes civic, corporate, community and philanthropic partners to create a vibrant and world-class urban core. As a leader in Downtown urban innovation, the organization also provides small business support and manages, programs and stewards 18 parks and public spaces throughout Downtown Detroit. Learn more at DowntownDetroit.org and engage on social media @DowntownDet.
About WDIV Local 4
WDIV-TV, branded as Local 4, is the NBC affiliate serving Detroit and the only major television station located within the city. Known for its leadership in local news, weather, and community programming, WDIV is the broadcast home for Detroit’s most iconic events, including America’s Thanksgiving Parade and The Ford Fireworks. ClickOnDetroit.com, the station’s digital platform, is the most visited TV news site in Michigan. WDIV has received numerous national honors, including Regional and National Edward R. Murrow Awards, the NAB Service to America Award, and Michigan Association of Broadcasters Station of the Year — an honor held for nine consecutive years.
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