Town of Carefree slates Christmas tree lighting

Imagine a small town glowing with Christmas lights, neighbors gathering around the tree and familiar carols filling the air. It sounds like a scene straight out of a Hallmark Christmas movie, but it’s exactly what you’ll experience at Carefree Lights Up!

Beginning 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 28, the Town of Carefree invites Valley resident to join in for an evening of holiday magic, music and community spirit. The festivities begin in the Carefree Desert Gardens, where families, friends and neighbors will gather around the 20-foot Christmas tree near the Veterans Memorial.

The Desert Hills Presbyterian Church Bell Ringers will lead the crowd in beloved holiday carols. Mayor John Crane will share his holiday wishes before leading the countdown to illuminate the tree and officially welcome the Christmas season.

Following the tree lighting, stroll just across the street to the Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion to continue the celebration. Melodies from the young string musicians of Jubilate Conservatory of Music will provide the perfect background music as you grab a free cup of hot chocolate, courtesy of the town, and settle into your seats for a Christmas concert beginning at 6 p.m.

The concert features performances by the Desert Cactus Kickers, a dynamic senior tap troupe known for their high-energy, and POP (Performing Outreach Project), an inclusive dance group made up of performers with physical and learning disabilities.

For more information, go to carefree.org.