Bowen's Wharf Christmas Tree Lighting is Dec. 6

A 30-foot tree has just been delivered and Bowen’s Wharf is the site of many preparations leading up to the annual Christmas tree lighting on Dec. 6.

It’s the 44th annual occurrence of the festive event, which includes the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus by boat (or magic, depending on the weather).

There’s music, free refreshments and special deals and tastes arranged by the many vendors of Bowen’s Wharf, who will be open before and after the event up until about 8 p.m. And restaurants, of course, will be open later.

Best of all, admission is free to this magical event, which starts at around 4:30 p.m. when Frosty the Snowman arrives. A festive Christmas carol sing-a-long follows at 5 p.m. and the highlight of the night — the lighting of the tree — is set for 6 p.m.

The parking lot will close at 4 p.m., so be prepared to find parking nearby.

Here’s the winter hours for Bowen’s Wharf:

Winter Hours: September 8, 2014 through May 21, 2015

Monday through Saturday: 10am - 5pm Sundays: 12pm - 5pm

Holiday Hours: November 28, 2014 to December 2, 2014

Fridays and Saturdays: 10am - 8pm Sunday through Thursday: 10am - 5pm

For holiday and winter event details, business directory and more photos or video, visit www.bowenswharf.com.