Catasauqua’s annual tree lighting will take place at the George Taylor House, Lehigh and Poplar streets, this year for the first time. The historic home will host the community tree lighting and old-fashioned Christmas event 5-8 p.m. Dec. 4.

From 5 p.m. to 6:15 p.m., the craft tent will be open; at 6 p.m., there will be carolers singing, and the tree lighting will start; and from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., Santa and Mrs. Claus will arrive. The event ends 8 p.m.

The gift shop will be open, the house will have re-enactors and visitors can enjoy free cookies and hot chocolate.

Hot dogs, chili and beverages will be available for purchase.

Historical Catasauqua Preservation Association will have a Santa’s tent for photos, a fire pit with mulled wine for adults and s’mores for the children.

The house will feature decorated trees in all the rooms, and costumed guides will share the traditions of an 18th-century Christmas. Come on out for lots of fun!

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The Suburban North YMCA will be holding its annual Tree of Lights program 6 p.m. Dec. 5 at the Y, 880 Walnut St. Lights can be purchased in memory of or in honor of a loved one.

Join in this special event, featuring musical performances courtesy of the YMCA pre-K and preschool students, YMCA dancers, Catasauqua High School’s Pellatones and a holiday reflection.

The lighting of the tree this year will be in memory of Sage Stauffer.

Refreshments will follow the tree lighting.

For more information, contact the Y at 610-264-5221 or visit greatervalleyymca.org.

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Catasauqua Food Bank thanks everyone who donated food during the recent food drives in the Boroughs of Catasauqua and North Catasauqua. There were donations from Boy Scouts, Sheckler Elementary School, Catasauqua Middle School and area churches.

The food should be enough to carry the food bank through the holidays. Your generosity is truly appreciated.

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Have a great week, and happy shopping!