Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

NATCHEZ — Christmas begins in Natchez with the annual Lighting of the Christmas Tree celebration, which takes place this Saturday, Nov. 30.

This tree lighting event, known to draw hundreds of people to the center of Downtown Natchez every year, will bring new and exciting changes to the traditional celebration.

For over a decade, the lighting of the 34-foot tree was immediately followed by fireworks around the tree. But this year that will not be the case.

Because of fire hazard, attendees will instead be amazed at a laser light show around the Christmas tree in the 100 block of Main and Commerce Streets, said Christmas in Natchez Board President Diane Dupont.

This year also includes other new and exciting holiday activities for all ages to enjoy, she said.

Snow machines, a petting zoo, a ride-on inflatable reindeer, rock climbing wall and other fun activities will be around the Christmas tree for the public to enjoy.

A $10 arm band will allow children unlimited rides and visits to the petting zoo. Drink and candy vendors will have refreshments for sale separately. These activities will be open from 3 p.m. Saturday until tree lighting activities begin at 6 p.m.

Santa Claus will visit children inside the lobby of Home Bank from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

The tree lighting kicks off promptly at 6 p.m. with a performance by the Natchez-Adams County High School Concert Choir around the Christmas tree followed by a singing of classic Christmas carols with audience participation.

Then the tree lighting countdown begins at 6:30 p.m. followed by the light show.