Due to rains expected to move into the area during the midday hours of Friday, December 4, plans have been changed for the Silent Night Stroll planned at Ram Pasture tonight.

The 36th Annual Tree Lighting had already been changed up this year due to the coronavirus. The tree was to be lit, and luminaria placed around the area, but this year’s lighting would not include live entertainment, nor were crowds encouraged.

Instead, the public was invited to visit Ram Pasture tonight between dusk and 10 pm, to stroll around the historic property and enjoy the sights of the season.

Ahead of the weather forecast, however, organizer Newtown Parks & Rec has postponed the presentation of luminaria.

Parks & Rec Director Amy Mangold told The Newtown Bee Friday morning that the trees on Elm Drive, just north of Hawley Lane, will be lit beginning tonight, but the luminaria placement will instead be done next week.

“We want everyone to be able to enjoy the tradition and the beauty of the [luminaria], we just want everyone to understand this is not an event,” Mangold cautioned. “It’s an opportunity to view the [luminaria] in a safe setting.”

The trees will be lit each night through at least the end of the month.

Luminaria will line Ram Pasture and roads in the immediate area on Friday, December 11. Parks & Recreation employees will be setting the bags out next Friday afternoon, and lighting them just before dusk.