WORCESTER, MA — Worcester will welcome the holiday season with its annual Festival of Lights celebration next month.
The free, family-friendly event will run from 4:30 to 9 p.m. Dec. 4, on the Worcester Common. The celebration will feature lighting displays, ice skating, food vendors, community groups and live performances, with the tree lighting scheduled for about 6 p.m.
"We look forward to welcoming families to the Common every year for an evening of celebration, connection and holiday cheer as we kick off this special time of year," City Manager Eric D. Batista said. "The City of Worcester is proud to offer opportunities for residents and visitors to experience the joy, diversity and spirit that make our city so special."
The festival marks the opening night of the city's winter lighting installation on the Common. This year's display will include a colorful, interactive fabric lantern created by RICE MA youth.
Singer-songwriter Sarah Louise French will headline the event with a 12-piece band led by bandleader, trombonist and vocalist Dan Gabel. The performers will present holiday favorites through a range of cultural traditions and musical styles.
Burncoat High School Quadrivium, JoAnn Warren Studios, May Street School, the Midland Street Elementary Youth Choir, RICE MA and the South High Choir will also perform throughout the evening.
Other attractions will include more than 15 food vendors, a beer tent, a visit from Santa, face painting, roving circus performers and fire performances.
Complimentary skating will be available at the Worcester Common Oval. Attendees may bring their own skates or rent a pair for $6. Free skating is sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts and DCU/Legends Global.
The Worcester Public Library at 3 Salem Square will remain open until 8:30 p.m. for the festival. Activities will include hot cocoa, family crafts, giveaways, a photo area and a Friends of the Library holiday sale.
Road closures will begin at 12:30 p.m. on Franklin and Front streets. Main and Church streets will close beginning at 2 p.m.
Parking will be free beginning at 2 p.m. at the Pearl-Elm Garage, 24 Pearl St., and the McGrath Parking Lot at the library. Standard or event rates will remain in effect at other municipal garages, lots and metered spaces.
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