Clermont’s annual “Light Up Clermont” is well underway with lots of holiday activities and cheer for the entire family. Mark your calendar for Friday, Dec. 1 at 5:30 p.m. with the official, tree-lighting ceremony. Mayor Tim Murry will “light” the tree at City Hall Park and the streets will come alive with holiday music and cheer. Santa and Mrs. Claus will greet children at the Clermont City Center and tasty food and holiday treats will be available throughout downtown until 9 p.m.

Parking for Friday’s event is encouraged at the Clermont Arts and Recreation Center, Lake Hiawatha Preserve, Park Pal and West Park and free shuttle buses will run between these locations and downtown from 5 – 10 p.m.

On Saturday, Dec. 2, the Hometown Parade will begin at 10 a.m. at Waterfront Park and travel down W. Montrose Street. There will be decorated floats, holiday dancers, marching bands and of course, Santa Claus himself!

The much anticipated “Cookies and Cocoa” event returns on Friday, Dec. 8, at 6 p.m. in Downtown Clermont. Merchants provide free, yummy cookies and rich, hot chocolate as local entertainers perform at City Hall Park. Be sure to stroll around and see all of the decorated shop windows and complete some holiday shopping.

The Enchanted Forest of Trees at Victory Pointe is even larger this year with 70 trees beautifully decorated by local businesses and organizations. Stroll along the path, enjoy the lights and holiday music to celebrate the season. The Forest will be open until 10 p.m. each night through Jan. 3.

A special mailbox has been set up at Victory Pointe and letters collected through Dec. 18 will be sent directly to the North Pole. Be sure to include your address so Santa can answer your letter!