On Saturday, December 3, Sandy Hook Organization for Prosperity (SHOP) will present the 16th Annual Sandy Hook Village holiday tree lighting.

The public is invited to enjoy the great Sandy Hook tradition featuring carolers, Santa Claus, karaoke, refreshments, goodies, and a community celebration.

This year's event will begin at 4 pm, leading to the lighting of two trees at 6 pm. This includes the lighting of the longstanding tree within The Glen, at 2 Washington Avenue, as well as a Norway spruce that was planted in the village a few years ago. The new tree, located on the opposite corner of The Glen, is at 2 Riverside Road and will reportedly be covered with green and white lights, while The Glen tree will have its traditional multicolored bulbs.

Santa will arrive in Sandy Hook Center - the intersection of Church Hill Road, Washington Avenue, Riverside Road, and Glen Road - from the North Pole via a Sandy Hook Fire & Rescue truck at 5 pm. He will stay until 6, during which time children can meet him. A decorated mailbox will be set up so that children can also bring their letters to Santa to the tree lighting event. They will be delivered straight to the North Pole following the tree lighting.

Those planning to attend are asked to bring with them a nonperishable item, to be delivered to FAITH Food Pantry. Upon giving Santa the food pantry donations, each family will automatically be entered into a raffle to win the honor of lighting the holiday tree.

FAITH Food Pantry has relied on the kindness and support of Newtown residents to help provide food and other necessities to residents who need a hand putting meals on their table, especially during the holiday season.

The following is a schedule of the main activities: festivities begin at 4 pm; karaoke will be ongoing, 4:45-6; Santa Claus Meet & Greet, 5-6; trees lit at 6; and caroling will continue following the lighting of the trees.

For two hours before the trees are lit, visitors to Sandy Hook Center will have plenty of activities to choose from. SHOP invites guests to stay in the village after the tree is lit to carol and enjoy all the shops and restaurants that will be open for the occasion.

Additional information about activities and special deals offered by Sandy Hook Village merchants can be found at sandyhookvllage.com, or facebook.com/experiencesandyhook.

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