The New York Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation has announced that on Fri.. Dec. 4, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Bayard Cutting Arboretum State Park will be hosting its 13th annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony.

Santa Clause and his elves will light the live tree. Bring a natural food ornament to decorate the Solstice Tree. Hot beverages and refreshments will be served in the Carriage House after Santa lights the tree. In the spirit of giving, bring canned goods for the needy.

For information and directions, call the Bayard Cutting Arboretum at 631-581-1002, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. or the Long Island State Park Recreation Department at 631-321-3510, weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. or visit the New York State Parks website at www.nysparks. com. Note that parking is limited, so arrive early.