Village organizers are gearing up for Santa Claus's return to Garden City Sunday, Dec. 4, at 3:30 p.m. Once again, the Village Gazebo will be the setting for the 51st annual village tree lighting ceremony coordinated by the Garden City Chamber of Commerce, in cooperation with the village and sponsored by Astoria Federal Savings. Astoria Federal Savings notes that they are proud to support the event and will have plenty of giveaways for the children.

Santa will arrive on a Garden City fire truck to assist Mayor Gerard Lundquist in the lighting of the three village trees - one at the gazebo, one in front of village hall and the third at the mall at Franklin and Stewart Avenues. For the 28th year, the renowned Village Music Makers big band will ring in the sounds of the season, and holiday choral music will be performed by the award-winning Garden City High School Vocal Jazz Ensemble, directed by Robert Ludwig.

An entertainer will interact with the younger set and the Garden City Volunteer Fire Department will provide hot chocolate while Bagelman and Riesterer's Bake Shop will provide holiday cookies.

Many hands are at work to make this a most happy and meaningful traditional event. The chamber especially acknowledges Astoria Federal Savings, a sponsor for more than 10 years, as well as the efforts of the Garden City fire, police and recreation departments and the village forces who decorate Garden City's business districts. For more information regarding the event, please call the chamber at 746-7724.