The annual community tree-lighting ceremony at borough hall, beginning 6:30 p.m. tonight, Dec. 1, will offer something different from previous years. Sponsored by Coplay Recreation & Welfare Association, the event has kicked off the yule season in town since the mid and late 1950s.

The outdoor portion of the program will take place next to the nativity creche. There will be caroling, and then Santa arrives on a borough fire truck bearing small gift bags for the girls and boys.

The program moves inside to the auditorium, where Lori Kulp Woodward and James Hummel make their debut at the holiday event with the entertainment. For many years, Whitehall’s high school and middle school chorale, along with the orchestra, provided the music.

The evening will conclude with refreshments.

The community tree was donated by a Catasauqua family. Each year, the borough puts out a call for a family to donate the tree, a tradition in keeping with the holiday spirit.

The town’s lighted Christmas decorations along Second and Chestnut streets will give a special glow to the holidays in the borough. The holiday spirit includes two large lighted decorations that cross the streets in two locations. This was a project started years ago by a citizens committee via donations from families and groups.

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The Scout-affiliated model train club has been working Thursday evenings year-round to get the train putz ready for the holidays.

The display is ready for public viewing Saturday and Sunday afternoons on the second floor of borough hall. It’s sure to be a treat for children of all ages!

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The borough planning commission and the park and recreation board have joined forces in sponsoring a fundraiser Dec. 9 at American Club of Coplay pavilion. Proceeds will benefit the community plaza project at Second and Chestnut streets.

Social Call will provide the musical entertainment.

For time, tickets and other information, call the borough office at 610-262-6088.