The Downtown Monroe Tree Lighting Ceremony and Holiday Kickoff Weekend events are held Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Festivities in Loranger Square on Friday night will include live entertainment, free wagon rides and strolling holiday characters.
Santa and Mrs. Claus will be available for visits from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Monroe Bank & Trust headquarters, 10 Washington St. Free pictures will be available, courtesy of Frenchie’s.
Dorsch Memorial Branch Library will host activities from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
The tree lighting ceremony is at 8:30 p.m. Monroe Mayor Mark Worrell will officially light the tree.
Store and restaurant specials are in effect until 9 p.m. at many locations.
The Saturday events are from 10 a.m. to noon and include $10 and under “Little Shopper Specials” for children and brunch at Monroe Street Grill with Mickey, Minnie and friends.
The activities conclude Sunday with the holiday parade at 3 p.m. on Monroe Street, and visits with Santa from 4 to 6 p.m. at Monroe Bank & Trust (bring your own camera).
The weekend activities are sponsored by Mornoe Downtown Development Authority and Downtown Monroe Business Network.