Wickford Village kicks off the season with its 39th annual Festival ofLights Celebration this Thursday to Sunday, Dec. 5 to 8.The festival begins on Thursday, Dec. 5, with the official lighting of the tree at Updike Park. Thousands of white lights sparkle and set the streets aglow as the village is transformed into a winter wonderland. Window shop as store owners show off their Christmas spirit with stunning holiday displays and compete for awards.

On Friday evening, Saturday afternoon, and Sunday afternoon welcome Santa at the Town Dock on Brown Street, as he arrives by boat with Safe Sea and is led by kayaking “reindeer.” Join him for carols and a horse- drawn hayride through the Village. All are invited to dress in their “elfiest”costumes and join the Elf Parade on Saturday.

There will be music and dancing to entertain shoppers throughout the weekend. Enjoy a cup of hot cocoa from the Boy Scouts and a delicious snack or meal from one of Wickford’s boutique restaurants.

Many shops will be open until 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday nights.

For details and real-time event updates, follow “I Love Wickford Village” on Facebook and Instagram.