Mark Your Calendars: Christmas is Coming to Clayton

The Christmas season will officially arrive in Clayton two days after Thanksgiving, when the Clayton Community and Business Association decorates the downtown area for the holidays. Decorations go up on Saturday, Nov. 26, according to Mike Fossan of the CCBA.

But the real celebrating won't start until a week later, when the town's annual Christmas tree lighting takes place. Residents are invited to gather downtown at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 3, at the gazebo in for a short walk with Santa Claus to the tree. The choir will sing.

Free doughnuts and hot cider will be served up at after the lights go on.

"We should be done by 7 p.m.," Fossan said.

One week later, Santa's wife will take center stage at the Mrs. Claus Dessert Party, Saturday, Dec. 10, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Endeavor Hall, 6008 Center St.

Children will have a chance to talk with Mrs. Claus and perhaps even sit on her lap, Fossan said. Santa will be on hand too, and kids will receive small trinkets.

There will be plenty of refreshments for both children and their grown-ups, with milk, hot chocolate, coffee, doughnuts, muffins and other items on the menu.

Admission to the dessert party is free.