City's Christmas Tree lighting ceremony set for Dec. 1

A lucky youngster flicks a switch to light the city Christmas tree during last year's ceremony at Central Square in the downtown. (Rochester Voice file photo)

ROCHESTER - The Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce today announced plans for its annual Christmas Tree Lighting in Central Square in the city's downtown.

The ceremony will take place on Dec. 1 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. and will include the lighting of Rochester's tree for the first time to kick off the holiday season.

A program of family activities will also take place as part of the Holiday Tree Lighting including a reading of "The Night Before Christmas" by Rochester Mayor Paul Callaghan as well as dance performances and caroling by Studio 109 Dance, Voice & Drama. There will also be free cookies and hot chocolate, provided by Potter's House Bakery & Café, and even a very special visit from Santa Claus.

For more information on the tree lighting or entry forms for Rochester's "A Polar Express Christmas" parade on Dec. 3, contact the Chamber office at 603-332-5080 or visit www.rochesternh.org/treelighting or www.rochesternh.org/parad