HAYDEN — The season of cheer is here. On Saturday, Dec. 1, Hayden’s annual lights parade and Christmas tree lighting ceremony will take place at McIntire Family Park.

At 5 p.m. the parade launches at Hayden Avenue and will proceed down the northbound lane of Government Way all the way to Honeysuckle Avenue. Events and recreation coordinator Lori Cogley said, “For the best view of the parade, please stand along on the east side of Government Way.”

Drivers, take note that during the parade, Government Way will be closed to traffic from Hayden Avenue to Honeysuckle Avenue. Roadways will be reopened to traffic once parade units have passed, Cogley said.

Immediately following the parade, the public is invited to take part in the Christmas tree lighting ceremony at McIntire Family Park. Free hot chocolate, coffee and cookies will be served in the McIntire Family Park gazebo, Cogley said. Choirs from Hayden Meadows and Atlas Elementary schools will perform, and local children will light the Christmas tree with Mayor Steve Griffitts. Santa Claus will also make an appearance to listen to kids’ wishes and pass out treats inside Hayden City Hall. Arts, crafts and games will be available for kids while they wait to see Santa, courtesy of P1FCU.

Donations to the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves’ Toys for Tots campaign will be accepted.

Businesses and organizations interested in participating in the parade should call the city of Hayden at 208-209-1080 or visit the city of Hayden website at www.cityofhaydenid.us for an application. There is no cost to participate in the Hayden Lights Parade, Cogley said, and applications are being accepted through Monday, Nov. 26.

Cogley said this year’s event has been made possible through donations and support by P1FCU, Super 1 Foods, Thomas Hammer Coffee, Boy Scouts of America Troop 911, Hayden Veterans Commission, and the Hayden Parks, Recreation & Community Forestry Commission.

For more information, please call 208-209-1080.