Bundle up the family and join your friends and neighbors on Friday, December 1 as Salem celebrates the 22nd Annual Riverfront Park Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony! This free community event is one of Salem's most loved community traditions.

Festivities begin at 6 p.m. and Mayor Chuck Bennett will lead the tree lighting ceremony at 6:30 p.m. One lucky child in attendance will be selected to help Mayor Bennett "flip the switch" to light the holiday tree.

Fun activities include:

* Free hot cocoa and cookies provided by Roth's Fresh Market.
* A family craft booth hosted by Straub Environmental Center.
* Musical performances from the Grizzly Youth Choir.
* A visit from Santa with special escort service provided by the Salem Fire Department.
* Real live reindeer!

Riverfront Park is located at 200 Water Street NE in downtown Salem. This annual holiday event is sponsored by the City of Salem and Comcast.