(Lawrenceville, Ga., November 15, 2017) – Continue the tradition this holiday season with Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation (GCPR), as they host the 30^th Annual Lighting of the Tree on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 23 at 5:30 p.m. with tree lighting ceremony and other festivities. The event will begin at the Gwinnett Historic Courthouse in downtown Lawrenceville, with families gathering on the grounds to await the flick of the switch illuminating 30,000 lights on the 30-foot Norway Spruce. Randy Travis of FOX 5 WAGA-Atlanta returns as emcee this year to host the evening festivities including Class Act Band leading everyone in singing carols, and music by Audrie Beharie and Buford City High School.

Food vendors will be on hand to offer sweets, savory treats and warm beverages. The entire family can enjoy a historically-themed tour of the second floor of the Courthouse and see the beautifully decorated Grand Jury Room, Superior Court Ballroom, Judge’s Robing Room and more! There will be face painting, Whoville Hair and crafts starting at 5:30 p.m. until Santa arrives in style aboard a trackless “Steam” Locomotive.

Beginning Nov. 25 and running through Dec. 20, the Courthouse will host numerous Christmas activities and events, including Breakfast with Santa from 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Nov. 25 and Dec. 16. Children can have a delicious breakfast, then make a craft, play games and have pictures taken with Santa. Cost is $18 per person and requires pre-registration by Dec. 14. Those looking for an extra festive event can attend Supper with Santa from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Dec. 16 and 22. Enjoy an evening meal with Santa in the beautifully decorated Superior Court Ballroom, make a craft and play games. Families are encouraged to bring their cameras for photos with St. Nick. Pre-registration is required, and the event is open to all ages, $18 per person.

Holiday on the Square brings Santa back to the courthouse from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Nov. 25, and from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Dec. 16 and 17 for visits and pictures in his beautifully decorated room. Sitting fee with the professional photographer is $8 per person, or families can take their own pictures. Children can also make a craft in the Elf Lodge for $2 per person. For these and many more events, visit www.gwinnettparks.com or call 770-822-5450.