Brownhelm Historical Association is set to host the annual Christmas Tree Lighting event Dec. 1 at the Historic Brownhelm School and Museum, 1950 N. Ridge Road, with doors opening at 5 p.
m. The event will feature refreshments, entertainment and a visit from Santa Claus himself ahead of the lighting of the tree, according to Marcia DePalma, president of Brownhelm Historical Association. “I like to call it the old-fashioned Brownhelm Christmas tree lighting,” she said.
“I’ve always wanted to make a Hallmark Christmas tree lighting. “It’s nice because it’s not just for our Brownhelm Historical Association membership, it is for the community.” According to DePalma, refreshments like hot chocolate, coffee, cider and homemade cookies baked by members will be available during the event.
At 6 p.m., guests will have the opportunity to visit and take pictures with Santa Claus, played by BHA member Grant Thompson.
“He is the biggest Santa you’ve ever, ever seen. He’s just got a booming voice on the stage, and it’s just really nice; everyone goes crazy,” said DePalma. “A lot of kids, even adults, want to get their picture with Santa.
” The inside of the school and gymnasium will be festively decorated with red and green while music plays, and a fire pit will be located outdoors to keep guests warm. DePalma said Christmas caroling will also be a highlight of the event. “We like to think of our school now as being the center of the community,” she said.
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