Framingham Tree Lighting, Block Party Returns Friday

FRAMINGHAM, MA — The city's 33rd annual tree lighting ceremony returns this Friday with Thanksgiving a week in the rearview mirror.

Framingham will host the lighting ceremony and a block party from 5 to 7:30 p.m. on Friday, transforming Union Avenue into a holiday scene complete with music, treats and activities for families.

Officials said the celebration will feature hot chocolate and other snacks, and the Framingham Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts will kick off the festivities with a festive sing-along set to begin at 5:30 p.m. on the Union Avenue ramp at the Memorial Building.

The city's tree, decked out with over 1,000 lights, will be lit by Santa and Mrs. Claus, who will make their entrance atop a Framingham fire engine after 6:15 p.m.

Author Megan Litwin will be at the event to read her book "Twinkle Twinkle Winter Night" as part of a storywalk.

“Our tree lighting ceremony has been a Framingham tradition for decades. It brings our community together in a joyful way,” said City of Framingham Mayor Charlie Sisitsky.

Union Avenue will be closed from Concord Street to Proctor Street starting at 4 p.m. on Friday for the event. Officials said that vehicles parked in this area will be subject to towing.

Parking is available at the Memorial Building, the main Framingham Public Library, the Danforth Building and the Pearl Street Garage. The Memorial Building will have handicap-accessible parking.