Square Deal

The annual Christmas tree lighting, featuring a local 55-foot Norway spruce decorated with energy-efficient holiday bulbs, takes place on Friday, Nov. 25, 6:30 p.m., at downtown’s Clinton Square. Santa Claus and his North Pole missus stop by, with musical and dance performances prior to the lighting, followed by free ice skating at the square’s rink. Also taking place downtown on Friday: the annual Gingerbread Gallery at the Erie Canal Museum, 318 Erie Blvd. E.; the Art Mart at the City Hall Commons, 201 E. Washington St.; and music from the Chittenango High School Choir and the Spirit of Syracuse Chorus at 5 p.m. at the Landmark Theatre, 362 S. Salina St., as well as a free screening of How the Grinch Stole Christmas at 8 p.m. For more information, visit syracuse.ny.us.