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The City of Williamsport is preparing for the winter holiday season and it appears nature is, too.
The festivities begin at 6 p.m. Friday with the Children's Magical Christmas Parade that will welcome Santa to town.
The parade kicks-off at the intersection of Market and Fourth streets, heading west on Fourth Street to Elmira Street with streets nearby closed off so everyone can view the parade safely from the sidewalks and curbs.
Police will be on patrol and protecting and serving the city as they do during special events.
Downtown restaurants will be open for dining before and after.
But after the parade, hold on for a bit as Santa and Mayor Derek Slaughter will turn on the lights of the holiday tree on the The Green (corner of Hepburn and West Fourth streets) immediately following the parade.
There will also be an opportunity to visit with Santa after the parade, according to Kayla Drummond, city recreation coordinator.
The annual Festival of Lights and Open-Air Holiday Market will be on the following Friday.
On Friday, Dec. 2 from 5 to 8 p.m., Brandon Park comes alive with festivities for the popular festival and holiday market.
"This event continues to grow to not only include the magical lighting of the trees in the park, but dance performances, food, music, character meet-and-greet, children's Christmas craft workshop, children's Wish List letter writing station and visitations with Santa!" Drummond said.
The Open-Air Holiday Market will feature artisan vendors with unique holiday gifts for purchase, face painting, coffee, hot chocolate, food trucks, and more.
"The whole family is encouraged to bundle up and enjoy this beloved community event that is truly a holiday treasure to be celebrated by everyone. Santa will have additional open visitation hours at the Liberty Arena on Saturday and on Nov. 26 from 1 to 4 p.m., Dec. 9 from 5 to 8 p.m. and Dec. 10 from 3 to 6 p.m.
Keep in mind, the weather will be very chilly Friday with a slight chance of snow showers before 1 p.m. The high will only reach 32, so the bundling up request should be more of a requirement. The wind will be 8 to 13 miles per hour, with gusts of up to 23 mph. Friday night only gets colder, with the low dropping to 18, the National Weather Service forecast indicated.
Saturday also remains cold with a high near 30 but with sunshine.