Children of all ages are invited to enjoy holiday cheer at The City of Summerville’s annual Christmas In The Park event in Dowdy Park. Christmas In The Park will take place on Thursday, December 5 from 6:00 p. m. to 8:00 p. m. Santa will arrive at the park at 6:00 p. m. to meet children and offer free photos. There will be a Best Dressed Elf Contest, an Ugly Christmas Sweater Contest, live musical entertainment, and many fun activities planned for the evening. This year’s event will also feature vendors selling various crafts, food, baked goods, and other merchandise.

The official lighting of the tree will take place at 7:00 p. m. in Dowdy Park. The winner of The Best Dressed Elf Contest will light the tree with Mayor Harry Harvey. Complimentary hot chocolate and popcorn will be provided by the City of Summerville at the middle gazebo. A Holiday Bonfire hosted by the Summerville Fire Department will also be available.

At 7:45 p. m. , there will be special drawings for a girl’s bike, a boy’s bike, and a Christmas ham. Tickets for the drawings will be free and available at the big gazebo, with only one ticket per item allowed per person. Ticket holders must be present to win.

The Best Dressed Elf contest is open to all elementary-aged children, with registration from 6:00-6:30 p. m. Judging starts at 6:45 p. m. The Ugly Christmas Sweater Contest is open to all ages, with registration at 7:15 p. m. and judging at 7:30 p. m. The winner will receive a $50 cash prize. Free tours of the Couey House will also be given. For more information about Christmas In The Park, visit www. summervillega.org or the City of Summerville Georgia Facebook page.