The ceremony will begin with a warm holiday welcome from Kessler Collection Chairman and CEO Richard C. Kessler, followed by a live performance by the First Baptist Church Choir at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Park stage. Acclaimed vocalist and American Traditions Competition finalist Roger Moss will read “The Night Before Christmas” and the large Christmas tree at Plant Riverside District will be ceremoniously lit.

Santa Claus and his elves will make a special appearance at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Park stage, ushering in the official start of the holiday season at Plant Riverside District. Free, family-friendly entertainment will continue throughout the evening with live music by Laiken Love and the Fellowship of Love on the Pavilion Stage and a holiday-themed performance by Cirque Divina and a special holiday fountain show at Martin Luther King, Jr. Park.

Schedule:

● 6:10 p.m. – Welcome Message from Richard C. Kessler (MLK Park Stage)

● 6:20 p.m. – Performance by the First Baptist Church Choir (MLK Park Stage)

● 7 p.m. – Reading of “The Night Before Christmas” by Roger Moss (MLK Park Stage)

● 7:25 p.m. – Official Tree Lighting (MLK Park Stage)

● 7:30 – 9 p.m. – Appearance by Santa Claus & Elves (MLK Park Stage)

● 7:30 – 11 p.m. – Live Music by Laiken Love and the Fellowship of Love (Pavilion Stage)

● 9 p.m. – Holiday Performance by Cirque Divina (MLK Park Stage)

● 9:45 p.m. – Holiday Fountain Show (MLK Park Stage)