RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) - The annual Cordova Community Christmas Tree Lighting will kick off the holiday season with an exciting celebration from 4 to 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 1 at Village Green Park, 3141 Bridgeway Drive.

The event, presented by the Cordova Community Council, is free to the public and promises an evening filled with family-friendly activities, festive fun and holiday cheer.

“We light our tree on the Sunday after Thanksgiving. It’s a perfect time to shake off the last of the turkey hangover and kick off the Christmas season together as a community,” said Shelly Blanchard, the Cordova Community Council executive director.

The highlight of the evening will be the much-anticipated tree lighting ceremony at 7 p.m., followed by a dazzling fireworks display. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy a variety of festive activities throughout the event.

“Take a train ride around the Christmas tree, a hayride around the park and check in with Santa Claus,” Blanchard said. “At 7 p.m., grab a great spot for the countdown, watch our beautiful tree come to life and be dazzled by some holiday fireworks. What’s not to love?”

Families will also enjoy participating in the Help Stuff the Squad Car drive, which aims to brighten the holidays for local children in need. Attendees are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped gift to donate, helping to spread holiday cheer to those less fortunate.

“The holidays are about giving and sharing, and that’s what our tree lighting reflects,” Blanchard said. “More than 40 community organizations are set up around the park, each of them giving away something in the spirit of the holidays. And we promise, it will snow!”

Following the event, volunteers are needed to help with cleanup and other tasks. Those interested in lending a hand are encouraged to visit the Cordova Community Council’s website at cordovacouncil.org, click on the “Be A Volunteer” link and complete a short form to sign up for a volunteer role.

The Cordova Community Christmas Tree Lighting is a cherished tradition that brings the community together to celebrate the spirit of the season. With activities for all ages and an atmosphere of giving and joy, it’s sure to be a highlight of the holiday season.