Posted: Nov. 16, 2009

New Berlin — The city will kick off the holiday season with a Christmas tree lighting at 4:30 p.m. Dec. 5 at the Veterans Memorial, at Casper Drive and National Avenue. The New Berlin Lions Club sponsors the event.

A choir from Eisenhower High School will sing Christmas carols and city dignitaries will present brief remarks.

The Lions will distribute free stockings filled with candy. Food and hot chocolate will be available through the Boy and Girl Scouts of New Berlin.

Santa and Mrs. Claus will visit with kids at the fire station across the street. Santa's elves will accept letters to Santa.

Children who cannot get to the tree lighting still can have their letters delivered to Santa. There is a special mailbox for Santa at the New Berlin post office, 15300 W. Howard Ave. Kids also can put them in their home mailbox and mail carriers will make sure Santa receives them. It is important that the address is legibly written so Santa can write back.

The annual Christmas parade was canceled this year. The Chamber of Commerce had trouble getting sponsors and volunteers, according to chamber officials. A last-minute attempt to get sponsors privately also failed. Plans are for the Christmas parade to return next year.