Alpharetta Prepares To Host Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

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Alpharetta residents are encouraged to plan to celebrate the holidays with family, friends, and furry pals this season with its lineup of special events.

The city has planned a variety of free, festive events to add to the joy and fun of this special time of year.

Annual Christmas Tree Lighting and the festivities surrounding the event will kick off at 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5 in the city’s historic downtown district. Holiday performances will be held on the community stage and will be conducted by Northpoint Community Church, Dance Now, St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, City of Alpharetta Rhythm n’ Shoes Dance Program, Alpharetta Community Chorus, Alpharetta Christian Academy, Alpharetta High School and Kings Ridge Christian School. Mayor David Belle Isle and his family will host a read-along of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas and the tree lighting ceremony will get underway at 7 p.m. Other activities include a visit with Santa Claus, snow playground and marshmallow roasting on Old Roswell Street, a chance to shop with merchants of the Alpharetta Christmas Farmers Market and free children’s crafts, face painting, balloon twisting and much more.

Breakfast with Santa (ages 10 and under) will be from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 12 at the Alpharetta Adult Activity Center at North Park. Children will be joined by Santa and Mrs. Claus, and treated to a light breakfast. Coffee will be available for parents. Space is limited, and pre-registration ends December 7, or when program is full -- whichever comes first. To pre-register, contact 678-297-6140 or activeadults@alpharetta.ga.us. Participants are asked to bring a new, unwrapped toy for donation to a local charity.

Pet Photos with Santa Claws is a favorite activity for pet lovers, and will be held from noon to 2 p.m. Dec. 12 at the Waggy World Paw Park. Four-legged friends can be dressed in their finest holiday attire and brought to the park for a special photo taken with Santa. Families are welcome in the photo. One complimentary photo will be taken by staff photographers. Bring a personal camera for additional photos, taken as time allows. Participants are encouraged to make a donation or bring an item for local pet charity, Angels Among Us. All pets must be current on vaccines and on a leash. To enter the photography area, proof of current vaccinations must be provided, no exceptions. For more information or inclement weather plans on event day, contact 678-297-6130 or email jlsimpson@alpharetta.ga.us.

Alpharetta City Band Holiday Concert will be presented at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13 at the Alpharetta Adult Activity Center at North Park. Folks of all ages can delight in this beautiful musical rendition of holiday classics. Light refreshments will be served after the concert. For more information, contact 678-297-6140 or activeadults@alpharetta.ga.us.

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