The city of Dawsonville will kick off the holiday season on Saturday with its annual tree lighting spectacle.

The city’s Christmas tree, which stands at 26 feet tall, outside city hall, will light up the night shortly after 6 p.m. Saturday when Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive from the North Pole to share in the celebration.

The city will provide carnival games and a variety of family fun, including live entertainment, beginning at 3:30 p.m. in the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame museum.

Hot chocolate and apple cider will be provided to take away the winter chill after carolers entertain the crowds with classic holiday carols.

Santa and Mrs. Claus, who make a special visit to Dawsonville each year to pass out candy canes and remind the children (and adults) to stay on the good list, will also pose for photos beginning at 4 p.m.

As a special holiday gift, the city will provide a complimentary, professional photo with Santa to take home that evening. Additional photo with Santa packages will be available to order.

This year’s tree lighting also stands as the kickoff for a yearlong tribute to the founding of the City of Dawsonville 150 years ago.

“We invite everyone to come out to our tree lighting and the first event of the city’s sesquicentennial celebration,” said Kim Cornelison, city administrator.

A committee is currently developing ideas for the yearlong celebration and invites the community to offer suggestions.

Holiday festivities begin at 3:30 p.m. The tree will be lit around dark.

For more information, call Cornelison at (706) 265-3256.