Ankeny Mayor, Santa Will Light Tree Tonight

ANKENY, IA — The third annual tree-lighting program in Ankeny will come with two big changes this year: a new location for the festivities and a fireworks finale. The ceremony will begin at 6 tonight at the Ankeny Market & Pavilion, 715 W. First St.

The Ankeny Mayor's Tree Lighting is a kickoff to the holiday season that will feature kids' activities, an ice-carving demonstration, music, Iowa Wild slap shot hockey and more. Mayor Gary Lorenz and members of the city council will be on hand to greet guests beginning at 6 p.m.

At 6:50 p.m., Santa will arrive to help Mayor Lorenz with the official tree lighting, and the fireworks finale will follow.

Santa will travel to Porch Light Coffeehouse, 417 S.W. Third St., after the fireworks for a meet and greet. He will be available there until 8 p.m.

More Fun Saturday

Families are encouraged to return Saturday for Christmas in Uptown from noon to 4 p.m. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be at the Historical Society Barn and visitors will get a token for a treasure hunt.

Uptown businesses with a "Santa Stop" sign will have treasure bags. The event also includes treats, specials at area businesses, gift wrapping and horse-drawn wagon rides.

More information about Christmas in Uptown can be found at www.uptownankeny.org.

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