25-Foot Tree Will be Centerpiece of Tree Lighting on Wednesday

Organizers are hoping for more than 1,000 people to attend the annual White Lake Township ceremony starting at 6 p.m. Wednesday.

"This year's event will be bigger and better than ever," said coordinator Lynn O'Brien. "This year we have a 25-foot-tall tree and live reindeer with holiday elves."

The "I'm Dreaming of a White Lake Christmas" themed event kicks off at the Village Lakes Shopping Center. 

Last year, 800 people attended, despite rainy weather.

The has ordered 1,500 craft kits for kids to create while at the event, and the library also will host the .

In addition to the reindeer and crafts, there will be giveaways throughout the evening. Santa and Mrs. Claus will arrive at the event in style with the White Lake Township .

Choirs from Walled Lake Central and will perform holiday music and host a sing-along on the Oakland County mobile stage.

There also will be ice sculptures and recognition of past and present military personnel.

If you are worried about the cold, fear not. will be handing out hot chocolate and coffee.

While this is a White Lake Township event, it is free and open to anyone.

"No township dollars were spent on this event," O'Brien said. "Everything is paid for by community sponsors.

"This event would not be possible without them."