Once again, the village gazebo will become the setting for the 49th annual village tree lighting ceremony, coordinated by the Garden City Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by Astoria Federal Savings.

This Sunday, Dec. 7, between 3:30-4:30 p.m., Santa will arrive on a Garden City fire truck to assist Mayor Barbara Miller in the lighting of the village's trees. Once again, the Village Music Makers will ring in the sounds of the season and holiday choral music will be performed by the Garden City High School Vocal Jazz Ensemble, directed by Robert Ludwig.

A multi entertainer will perform and Kingsley Bear (courtesy of Kings Super Market) will be on hand with goodies for the young ones. Hot chocolate will be served by the Garden City Fire Department, in conjunction with Hoffmann's Caterers. There'll be holiday cookies, courtesy of Bagelman and Riesterer's Bake Shop, plus holiday Munchkins, courtesy of Baskin Robbins Dunkin' Donuts.

Many hands are at work to make this a meaningful event. The Chamber especially acknowledges Astoria Federal Savings Bank and the Garden City Fire, Police and Recreation Departments, along with the village forces that decorate the village's business districts.

Stewart Avenue will be closed to vehicular traffic between Franklin and Hilton Avenues between 3-4:45 p.m. There will be no rain date for this event.