The 2023 Ram Pasture Tree Lighting is being planned for Friday, December 1.

Festivities will begin at 6:30 pm at the corner of Elm Drive and Hawley Lane. Those planning to attend should note in advance that both roads will be closed ahead of and during the all-ages event.

Singing, dancing, and visits from Santa Claus will all be part of the evening.

Santa will be available for sitting visits. Children are also invited to bring their letters to him, to be placed in a special North Pole mailbox.

Ahead of that, donations are sought to cover the costs associated with the annual tree event.

The fundraising effort will continue through the end of the year.

Donors may contribute $10 for a bulb or luminaria to honor someone special. Readers are invited to use the coupon offered here to indicate who they are honoring, and whether they wish to sponsor someone with a luminaria or bulb.

Checks should be made payable to Newtown Parks & Recreation Park Gift Fund, and mailed to Newtown Parks & Recreation, 8 Simpson Street, Newtown CT 06470.

Checks can also be dropped off at the Parks & Recreation office, within Newtown Community Center on Simpson Street.

Donations can also be done online at newtown-ct.gov/parks-recreation.