Bloomingdale Kris Kingle Market and tree-lighting ceremony set for Dec. 1

What better way to get the community in the spirit than a very merry gathering!

Join the annual Kris Kringle Market and Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday, Dec. 1, from 3:30 to 8:30 p.m. in Old Town Bloomingdale, 111 Third St.

Shop for locally made products and one-of-a-kind gifts at the festive outdoor market.

Vendors will be selling a wide range of handmade and packaged goods, holiday decor, pet items, crafts, clothing and more. No matter who you are shopping for, the Kris Kringle Market will provide an abundance of opportunity to find the perfect gift. There will also be fresh food vendors selling sweet and savory treats as well as beer and mulled wine to enjoy throughout the evening.

This enchanting event will provide free kids' entertainment including face painting, balloon art, crafts, games with prizes and photo opportunities with Pete the Cat. Dickens Carolers will be performing between 4 and 6 p.m.

At 7 p.m., witness Santa riding the fire engine to the top of Bloomingdale's tree where he will illuminate it, and all of Old Town, with a touch of his finger.

This will kick off the park district's monthlong Festival of Lights display, now marking its 11th year.

There will be additional open house events throughout the evening.

Pan American Bank will have Santa, treats and a giant snow globe from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m.

The Bloomingdale Chamber of Commerce will host their open house in their office from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Bloomingdale Park District will provide kid's activities and hot chocolate in the museum and free kiddie train rides in the pavilion from 3:30 to 8:30 p.m.

During December, the park district museum is highlighting the holiday season with a special exhibit. Museum hours in December are: 6 to 8:30 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, and 2 to 4:30 p.m. Saturdays. On Saturdays, Dec. 2-23, there will be holiday crafts, horse-drawn carriage rides, holiday-themed programs, photo opportunities, cookie decorating, holiday canvas art, scavenger hunt, and complimentary refreshments.

For information, visit www.facebook.com/BloomingdaleKrisKringleMarket/.