Penfield Community Center prepares for a festive night as Holiday Blast and the annual tree lighting come together on December 12

Penfield, New York – The Town of Penfield is gearing up for a lively and heartwarming evening as two long-running seasonal traditions merge into one celebration. Residents of all ages are being welcomed to the Penfield Community Center on Friday, December 12, for a combined Holiday Blast and Tree Lighting event that aims to bring neighbors together for a night filled with color, cheer, and classic holiday charm.

From 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., the inside of the community center is expected to buzz with activity as families drift from table to table, exploring the many returning favorites from the annual Penfield Holiday Blast. Organizers say visitors can look forward to a spread of hands-on fun—craft-making stations, playful games, lively music, and the sweet, unmistakable smell of cookie-decorating supplies drifting through the halls. And of course, the biggest guest of the evening will be Santa himself, ready to greet excited kids and listen to their wish lists.

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Just outside the building, the night will take on an extra layer of magic when the community gathers for the official lighting of the town tree. The switch will be flipped at 5:30 p.m., creating a moment that blends anticipation, tradition, and the shared joy of watching the season come to life in a wash of glowing lights.

Town officials are encouraging everyone to stop by and enjoy the festivities, noting that “The event is free and open to the public.” The hope is that merging the two programs will give families a fuller, more spirited experience without adding any barriers to participation.

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Anyone looking for more information or needing assistance ahead of the event is encouraged to reach out directly to Penfield Recreation. As the town notes, “Questions about the event? Call Penfield Recreation at 585-340-8655.”

With its mix of indoor activities and classic outdoor tradition, December 12 is shaping up to be one of the season’s most anticipated evenings in Penfield—an inviting space for community connection, simple joys, and the shared glow of a newly lit holiday tree.