By A. Finn Moss | Still believes reindeer can fly

It’s that time of year again when temperatures drop and hopes rise. Hopes, that is, for a new firetruck or Speakeasy Dolly or even an authentic set of Bruce Lee Signature nunchucks to magically appear under the tree on Christmas morning.

But before such goodies can be enjoyed, they must be asked for. And who does one ask? Why Santa Claus, of course.

Father Christmas makes his annual pilgrimage to Bass Lake on Saturday where he will be the honored guest at the tree lighting ceremony at the Town Rhombus.

Santa will be joined this year by his favorite elf, Carl. Carl, age unknown, is expected to help his jolly boss pass out candy canes and other seasonal goodies to area youth as they line up to deliver their wish lists.

Jolly’s Morgue and Donuts will provide refreshments in the form of tree-shaped donuts, hot chocolate and warm coffee. As usual, the Gender Neutral Scouts of Michiana will be on hand to decorate the tree and make older revelers feel uncomfortable.

The festivities get going around 4 p.m. when the 63-foot tall Eastern White Pine arrives via horse-drawn wagon.

Attendees are asked to bring a dish to pass and a gift to lob under the tree once it is erected and adorned in the appropriate manner.