An unfavorable forecast caused the North Branford Tree Lighting to be postponed from its original Dec. 1 date and rescheduled to take place Friday, Dec. 8. North Branford’s annual, family-friendly tree lighting and festive fun begins at 6:30 p.m. to the Town-owned Augur property at 90 Forest Road in Northford.

In partnership with North Branford Rotary Club, North Branford Parks and Recreation is planning to host free hay rides, musical entertainment, a petting zoo, an ice sculpting demonstration, marshmallow toasting (sticks provided courtesy Smorstix), hot chocolate, and cookies. Santa Claus will be there to help light the town tree. Food trucks will be on-site for the event. New this year, a handmade artisans’ market at the tree lighting will offer the opportunity for some special holiday shopping.

Kids are encouraged to bring their letters to Santa, Mrs. Claus or their favorite elf or reindeer to be collected at the tree lighting event and sent to the North Pole. North Branford Parks and Recreation has provided a helpful letter template which can be accessed at nbrecreation.com.

A free shuttle will provide transportation to and from the event. Parking for the shuttle is at North Branford Intermediate School (NBIS) at 654 Foxon Road. The shuttle will run from 5:45 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. and back to NBIS from 8 p.m. to 8:45 p.m.