CANTON — The 35th annual Holiday of Lights Festival in downtown Canton will kick off in the village green Friday, Nov. 23 at 6 p.m. with an appearance by Santa Claus.

Claus will arrive behind the police chief's car on Monica Stone's horse-drawn lighted carriage sleigh.

As in year’s past, scores of children and their parents are expected to watch Santa and Village Mayor Mike Dalton turn on the colorful-lighted Memorial Tree and the all blue-lighted Veterans Memorial Tree in the park, officially kicking off the festival.

Diane Foote will the lead caroling, as Claus is escorted to the Presbyterian Church stage by a phalanx of Canton Fire Department volunteers bearing torches.

Each child will have will have the opportunity to palaver with the jolly old elf and will receive a book and candy cane donated by local businesses and individuals.

Frosty The Snowman, Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer, and Poo Bear will be on hand to entertain children waiting in line for Claus.

There will be carriage or sleigh rides pulled by Monica Stone's draft horses, leaving from the Presbyterian Church.

Hot chocolate will be served inside with cookies and doughnuts.

Local residents will have memory tags and bows on the Memorial

trees honoring past family members and friends, and businesses have provided trees in their windows and lobbies for youth and adult groups to decorate, said festival committee members.

Attendees are advised to dress warmly and bring a flashlight.