Arboretum tree lighting on Saturday

GOSHEN — The fifth annual “Holiday Lights in Bloom” program will kick off with a tree lighting ceremony on Saturday, Nov. 30, at 5 p.m. in the Orange County Arboretum located in Thomas Bull Memorial Park.

“The Orange County Arboretum is a great place for residents to come and enjoy the holiday season,” said Commissioner Richard L. Rose of the county's Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation. “I would encourage those who are interested to attend and have some fun.”

The annual tree lighting ceremony is a free family event that will feature live holiday music. The critically acclaimed Just Off Broadway Theatre Ensemble will perform Christmas carols and then invite the audience to sing-along with a special selection for Santa’s arrival. Santa, Mrs. Claus and Frosty the Snowman will make their grand entrance and then lead the crowd to the raised-bed gardens where the Otisville Brass Band will perform tradition holiday favorites. Santa will throw the switch and light up the tree and the tens of thousands of holiday lights that illuminate the Arboretum.

Santa and Mrs. Claus will also be on hand to visit with children, listen to their “wish lists” and hand out candy canes and special gifts.

Despite a chill in the air this December, the Arboretum will be in full bloom with beautiful, garden themed light features in the forms of flowers, animals and insects and the 9/11 Memorial Garden will be decorated in patriotic splendor.

The Holiday Lights in Bloom program is free and will be open to the public on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 5 to 8 p.m. starting Nov. 30 through Dec. 22 and then daily from 5 to 8 p.m. Dec. 23 through Dec. 29. The Arboretum will be closed on Dec. 25, Christmas Day. Volunteers from The Friends of the Orange County Arboretum will be on hand in the Ottaway Education center to serve visitors free hot cocoa and sell handmade crafts at their Holiday Boutique.

For more information, contact Tamara Moson at 845-615-3828, email Tmoson@co.orange.ny.us or visit www.orangecountynyparks.com