Somerville's 2013 Holiday Events Schedule

If you're looking forward to celebrating the holidays in Somerville, here are some events and dates you need to know.

Tree and menorah lighting

• Dec. 5, 5:30 p.m.
• City Hall Concourse, 93 Highland Ave.
• Highlights: The city lights its Christmas tree and menorah, and Santa Claus makes a special visit, escorted by the Somerville Fire Department. The Somerville High School Band and Orchestra, the Somerville Community Chorus, El Sistema Somerville, and students from the Healey School will perform music.

• Dec. 5, after the tree and menorah lighting
• Somerville High School's Highlander Cafe, 81 Highland Ave.
• Highlight: Every child who visits Santa will get a free gift.

• Dec. 14, beginning at 4:30 p.m.
• City Hall Concourse, 93 Highland Ave.
• Highlights: Somerville residents can go a little overboard with their Christmas and holiday lights, and this trolley tour lets you see just how overboard they go. Organized by the Somerville Arts Council, the annual Illuminations Tour lets people ride around town to see the lights. It also includes refreshments, choral music, crafts activities and entertainment. Learn more at the Somerville Arts Council's website.
• Tickets: Sold at Blue Cloud Gallery, 713 Broadway in Ball Square, beginning Dec. 2.

• Dec. 14, 5:50 p..m.
• City Hall Concourse, 93 Highland Ave.
• Highlights: For those hardy souls who prefer to see Somerville's lights from the comfort of their bicycle. See more at somervillebikes.org.

• Deadline: Dec. 6
• Contact: Somerville Arts Council at (617) 625-6600, ext. 2985

• Dec. 6, 7 and 8
• Assembly Row, 300 Grand Union Blvd.
• Highlights: Food trucks, holiday market featuring work by more than 60 artists, family activities, live music, and a 21+ event on Friday, Dec. 6.
• Tickets: Get them here.