Official Tree Lighting in Old Town Scheduled for End of November

If you’re one of the people who gets upset at Christmas being celebrated before Thanksgiving, you might be vexed by the City of Alexandria’s holiday schedule.

The official Tree Lighting Ceremony is scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 23 at Market Square (301 King Street).

“Bring the family to spark the season’s spirit a week earlier than usual,” the city said in an event listing. “Due to the timing of Thanksgiving, this year’s event will take place the weekend before the holiday.”

(Thanksgiving is late this year, taking place on Thursday, Nov. 28.)

The event will include a performance of Santa’s Spectacular by the Metropolitan School of the Arts and holiday music from the T.C. Williams High School Advanced Choir, according to the event listing. After a countdown to the tree lighting, a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus is also scheduled.

Admission to the event is free and it will occur rain or shine.

Other upcoming holiday events in Alexandria include:

• Sanda and Mrs. Claus Visit Fibre Space: children are invited to get their pictures taken with Santa at yarn store Fibre Space. Photos are $15 and the event is scheduled for 3-8 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 19
• The 49th Annual Scottish Christmas Walk: the Christmas parade will be held on Dec. 6 and 7, which also celebrates the city’s Scottish heritage.
• The 20th Anniversary Holiday Boat Parade: the annual showcase of Christmas lights on boats will start at 5:30 p.m. on Dec. 7
• The 25th First Night Alexandria Celebration: a variety of festivities on Dec. 31 — from live music to a fireworks show — will ring in New Year’s in a family-friendly fashion.

Photo via Visit Alexandria/Facebook