“It’s the most wonderful time of the year” to “swing around the Christmas tree.” The City of Aiken Parks, Recreation and Tourism Department will host the 36th Annual Downtown Tree Lighting, 6-7 p.m., Friday, December 6. In case of rain, the date will be Thursday December 5.

The tree lighting will take place on Newberry Street in historic downtown Aiken. The event will kick off the festive season with music, refreshments, live performances from local choirs and a countdown to the tree lighting. Complimentary hot chocolate and cider will be served, and s’mores kits will be available for purchase to roast over a fire.

There will also be special appearances from Mayor Teddy Milner and, of course, Santa Claus.

Nothing is more festive than joining fellow Aikenites and lighting the 24-foot “dancing” Christmas tree in the heart of town. The display features more than 8,000 flashing lights that dance in patterns synchronized to holiday tunes.

Security Federal Bank is the presenting sponsor of the event, with contributions from Cedar Creek and USC Aiken.

In the nights following the tree lighting, visitors to Newberry Street can watch the tree lights and listen to the tree music portion on 98.7 FM.

The City of Aiken PRT Department invites people of all abilities to enjoy programs, parks and facilities. Individuals requiring special assistance to participate must notify the PRT Administrative Office 48 hours in advance.

For more information, call 803-642-7600, then press 3. To receive severe weather alerts, download the Aiken Explorer app or text AIKENRAINALERT to 91896.

Applications for the Festival of Trees will be accepted until November 13.

The City of Aiken Parks, Recreation and Tourism Department is seeking participants for the annual Festival of Trees to be held throughout the month of December at the Center for African American History, Art and Culture . This festive event invites local businesses and organizations to showcase their creativity by decorating holiday trees, which will be on display for the public to enjoy and vote.