The oldest of the three such events in town, the Ram Pasture Tree Lighting was first celebrated December 6, 1985.

Newtown Parks & Recreation, with support from The Borough of Newtown, will celebrate the 41st annual tree lighting at the historic property this season on Friday, December 12.

As in years past, live entertainment will begin at 6:30 pm. Local dancers and high school students traditionally warm up the crowd ahead of Santa’s arrival and then the lighting of the tree.

Children are also welcome to bring letters for Santa. A special North Pole mailbox will be set up for the evening.

Ahead of the celebration next month, donations are sought to cover the costs associated with the annual tree event.

Donors may contribute $10 for a bulb or luminaria to honor someone special. Luminaria will line Ram Pasture and many of the roads in the immediate area on December 12.

Readers are invited to send a check payable to Newtown Parks & Recreation Park Gift Fund, and mailed to Newtown Parks & Recreation, 8 Simpson Street, Newtown CT 06470. Donors should include indicate who they are honoring, and whether they wish to celebrate or memorialize someone with a luminaria or bulb.

Checks can also be dropped off at the Parks & Recreation office, within Newtown Community Center on Simpson Street.

Donations can also be made online at newtown-ct.gov/parks-recreation.

The fundraising effort will continue through the end of the year.