By Judy Reed

This week is Thanksgiving, and that means that area communities are kicking into high gear for their annual holiday celebrations.

Cedar Springs will once again be having their tree lighting and visit with Santa called “Come Mingle with Kris Kringle.” The event will take place Friday, December 4 this year instead of Black Friday. Santa and his favorite elf will arrive in the antique fire truck, at 6 p.m. at the corner of Main and Ash, and then he and the Red Flannel Queen will light the tree. About 6:30 p.m., Santa will head to the Cedar Springs United Methodist Church, on the corner of Main and Church Street, where he will hear the wishes of all the boys and girls. But instead of waiting in line for a long time, the kids will be able to sign in, and then go and enjoy an activity provided by an area business while they wait for their name to be called.