The first event in this year’s festivities is the Hazleton Holiday Celebration, which includes the City Hall Tree Lighting and the 31st Annual CAN DO Community Christmas, both set for Wednesday, December 4, from 4:30 to 9 PM. The Mayor’s tree lighting, which begins promptly at 5 PM, kicks off the holiday season at City Hall Block – 40 North Church Street. While participating in the Mayor’s tree lighting, attendees are encouraged to grab a made-to-order hot chocolate from 4:30 – 6:00 PM, compliments of Mayor Cusat's Hazleton Revitalization Fund. Event will include songs performed by Savannah Klingerman, an acoustic Christmas carol sing-along guided and directed by the LCBC worship team, and performances by All That Dancin'. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be available for photos inside City Hall - so please bring your cameras! Additionally, the Hazleton Library, located at 55 North Church Street, will be hosting pictures with Frosty the Snowman and guests can enjoy freshly popped popcorn.
Immediately following the tree lighting ceremony, the CAN DO Student Action Committee will host its annual CAN DO Community Christmas program at Christ Lutheran Church, also located within City Hall Block at 210 West Green Street. The event will feature musical performances from students across the Greater Hazleton Area including the Hazleton Area High School Jazz Ensemble, McAdoo Kelayres Elementary Middle School Chorus, Hazleton Area Cougar Crooners Vocal Jazz Ensemble, MMI Black Diamond Chorale, and Heights-Terrace 3rd Grade Choir.
Promptly after the concert’s conclusion, guests can have a picture taken with Santa and Mrs. Claus and leave with refreshments donated by Keystone Job Corps and Niagara Bottling.