City of Garland News Release:

Christmas on the Square – December 3, 2009

Santa’s elves are getting ready for a busy night in Downtown Garland. Garland’s annual Christmas on the Square celebration is scheduled for Thursday, December 3, from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. This year’s event features the traditional tree lighting ceremony at 7 p.m. complete with a spectacular fireworks and light display.
 
Santa Claus will be on hand to hear Christmas wishes from the children of Garland immediately following the tree lighting ceremony. Children may also have the opportunity to have their picture taken with Santa and receive a free commemorative photo button and candy cane.
 
You can also get into the spirit of giving by bringing a new, unwrapped toy to the MotorCops for Kids booth on Main Street at Sixth Street. The booth is sponsored by the Garland Police Department in partnership with Harley Davidson of Dallas, who will distribute them to several local charitable organizations to give to children in need. Harley will also have motorcycles on display, including one for family photo opportunities.
 
Choirs and bands from Garland Independent School District schools and area churches will perform throughout the event both on the Downtown Square stage and throughout the event, which includes areas immediately surrounding the Downtown Square and City Hall.
 
In addition to holiday music and lights, patrons will enjoy shopping for unique holiday gifts offered at the numerous arts and crafts booths in our Christmas Bazaar. And what would a holiday festival be without delicious treats? Enjoy hot chocolate, popcorn, caramel apples, and many more festive foods. Downtown Garland restaurants will also be open, offering delectable dishes for festival patrons.
 
Christmas on the Square offers free family activities including horse drawn carriage rides through Garland Power & Light’s Avenue of Lights and two snow sledding hills. Yes, there will be real snow on the streets of Downtown Garland! Other children’s activities include writing letters to Santa; making Christmas ornaments and puppets; face painting and faux tattoos; and balloon makers.
 
For additional information, visit www.ChristmasontheSquare.com or call 972-205-2633.