For the first time ever, Pennsauken’s Tree Lighting will be held at the new Municipal Building and Library Complex, 2400 Merchantville Ave. On Wednesday, Dec. 3 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., residents will enjoy fun family activities amid the glow of holiday lights.

“We’re so excited to have Santa, Mrs. Claus, and their friends come to our new Municipal Building and Library to light our tree for the holidays,” said Mayor Roberts. “Our Tree Lighting gets bigger every year, and we have so much lined up for our families to enjoy.”

Santa Claus will arrive via fire truck, courtesy of the Pennsauken Township Fire Department. From there, Jolly Ole’ Saint Nicholas will join Township officials and some other special friends to officially light the Township’s tree for the holiday season. Throughout the event, families can enjoy a variety of activities, including a carousel, trackless train rides, video game truck, petting zoo, and ice sculpting demonstrations. In addition to photo opportunities with Santa and Mrs. Claus, attendees can snap pictures with other holiday-themed costumed characters and stilt walking toy soldiers.

Brand new for this year’s Tree Lighting is a 24’ x 48’ skating rink. One hundred pairs of ice skates in a variety of sizes will be made available for guests.

Children who want their letters to Santa delivered to the North Pole can drop them off that evening in a special mailbox set up on site. Mr. Claus will read some of these notes in a special video that will be shared later in December on Pennsauken’s YouTube channel and via social media.

The Township will also be accepting new, unwrapped toys during that time for the annual Angel Tree program, which helps local families in need during the holidays.