MEADVILLE — Franklin County will be transformed into a Christmas village Thursday during its annual Lillian Torrey Christmas tree lighting and Bude and Meadville parades.

While the tree lighting and parades have been a Franklin County tradition for decades, this year marks the first year the Franklin County Bicentennial Committee has planed the events.

Jennifer Griffith, public relations manager for the bicentennial committee, said they’re trying to revamp the ceremony completely.

“We just want to give kids something to do around here,” Griffith said. “It’s fun to go to Brookhaven and see their parade, but hopefully we can keep them here and keep them interested in things here.”

As a Franklin County native, Griffith said she has fond memories of the parade as a child and wants to give those same memories to newer generations.

“When I was a little girl, people looked for it and it was a big deal,” Griffith said. “We’re hoping to keep that for the next generation and let them know that there’s something here for them in Franklin County.”

The events begin with the Town of Bude parade and mayors reception at 3 p.m. followed by the Town of Meadville parade at 5:30 p.m.

The Lillian Torrey tree lighting, featuring a visit from Santa, a band concert and singing around the tree, will end the ceremonies at 6 p.m.