An annual, family-friendly tree lighting event that only North Branford can deliver is set for Friday, Dec. 2 at the Town-owned Augur property, 290 Forest Road, in Northford.

In partnership with North Branford Rotary Club, North Branford Parks and Recreation is planning to provide hay rides, musical entertainment, a petting zoo, ice sculpting demonstration, marshmallow toasting (sticks provided courtesy Smorstix), hot chocolate, cookies and, of course, Santa Claus himself to help light the town tree.

This year, the live evergreen tree that’s growing ever taller each year beside the flagpoles on the Augur Property has a gigantic friend who seemingly can’t wait for the big night: a super-sized snowman that’s so big, a tire was used to make the rim of his top hat and two rakes serve as his arms, among other materials which recognize North Branford’s agricultural roots.

Kids are encouraged to bring their letters to Santa, Mrs. Claus or their favorite elf or reindeer to be collected at the event and sent to the North Pole.

New this year, a free shuttle will provide transportation to and from the event. Parking for the shuttle is at North Branford Intermediate School, 654 Foxon Road. The shuttle will run from 6 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. and back to NBIS from 8 p.m. to 8:45 p.m.

North Branford’s tree lighting takes place snow or shine For more information, visit the North Branford Annual Tree Lighting event page on Facebook or call 203 484 6017