Making the season bright

MILFORD — Historic Milford will light its tree on the grounds of the Community House on Saturday, Dec. 5.

The beloved annual celebration, hosted by the Milford Music Festival and Milford Lions Club, features free hot cocoa and cookies for all. The Dingman Delaware School Chorus, under the direction of Brian Krauss, will perform at 4:30 p.m.

Join the ceremonial countdown before the tree is lit at 5:15 p.m., when 100 trees downtown, and the star overlooking Milford from up on the knob, also brightens the rest of town. Once the lights are aglow, Santa Claus will arrive atop Milford Fire Department Engine 33 with a cool team of motorcycle-riding reindeer from the Pike County chapter of ABATE.

Many of the Milford's 40 specialty stores and artist galleries will remain open after the event for holiday shopping. Shop local stores this holiday for everything from kayaks to candy, jewelry to home decor — with most stores offering locally made and handcrafted one-of-a-kind gifts. Milford eateries are open into the night, as always, to accommodate dining before and after the holiday event.

Don't forget to bring your camera and wish list for Santa as well as your holiday shopping list.