All Aboard for a magical Christmastime night on the Common

The night will feature a full-length showing of 'The Polar Express.' (Courtesy image)

ROCHESTER - Rochester has no shortage of Christmas traditions, Friday's tree lighting, Sunday's parade and A Christmas Carol at the Rochester Opera House to name just a few.

This year's there will be another. The inaugural Christmas on the Common celebration takes place Dec. 15 from 4-9 p.m. and will feature a variety of family friendly holiday activities.

Children will have the opportunity to meet Santa, and are also encouraged to bring their Christmas lists to deliver them personally to St. Nick.

The event will also include Christmas carols performed by the Granite State Choral Society, hot chocolate provided by Dunkin' Donuts and an outdoor screening of "The Polar Express" on an inflatable screen in the Common.

Following the movie screening, there will be a bonfire to help attendees keep warm.

"This is an exciting new tradition that I expect will help bring residents together to celebrate the holiday season," Rochester Police Community Engagement Officer Kyle Danie said.

"We're looking forward to welcoming residents of all ages for an evening of fun," Recreation Supervisor Art Jacobs added. "I hope the whole community will join us for this event."

The entire event takes place outdoors, so residents are urged to dress warmly and bring their own chairs and blankets to enjoy the movie.

For more information on parking and weather, as well as to RSVP, visit the event's Facebook page.