Two annual yule holiday events were announced by the Northampton Borough Council at the Oct. 24 meeting.

One of the events is the town's tree lighting ceremony, complete with Santa visiting the borough on a fire engine, and the other is a dinner for borough employees and volunteers who serve on the many boards and commissions.

With Thanksgiving decorations to be displayed soon on street light standards on Main Street, public works personnel will begin to put up lighted Christmas decorations on Main Street in advance of the tree lighting ceremony. The special lighting was made possible several years ago by an employee in the borough's public works department. The light display attracts visitors from the region each holiday season.

Borough Manager Gene Zarayko reported the tree lighting will be held at the concrete plaza at Main Street and Laubach Avenue, near the VFW building, Bob's Flower Shop and Miller's Diner, 5:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 25. The rain date is Monday, Nov. 26, at 7 p.m.

A large donated tree will be lit. Children present will be greeted by Santa with small presents. A musical program is held in conjunction with the ceremony..

Zarayko said the annual holiday dinner meeting, during which time he delivers "The State of the Borough" address, will be on Friday, Dec. 21, at the Northampton Memorial Community Center.

The borough is accepting recommendations for individuals who may be considered as recipients of the Golden Cement Bag honors.

"It is presented to people who volunteer their service to the community," Zarayko said. Among past honorees are Larry Miller, Mayor Thomas Reenock and former council President Charles Bodnar.

The Delaware Heritage Trail marathon will take place Nov. 4 beginning at 8 a.m., according to Councilman Anthony Lopsonzski Jr. This year runners will begin on Smith Lane, then proceed west onto Laubach Avenue and west on 21st Street where they will connect with the trail.

Council received complaints last year from several Canal Street residents when the run originated from the Canal Street Park.

Organizers said they have personnel and volunteers as monitors to ensure there are no issues arising from such a large number of people competing in the fundraiser run.

About 1,600 runners are anticipated.