The holidays are quickly approaching

The turkey has been cooked, carved and consumed and November is over, which means December is here and holiday cheer is near. The East Meadow and Salisbury community is alive with the Hanukkah, Christmas and Kwanzaa spirit. Menorahs and twinkling trees adorn the local parks and many neighbors already took advantage of the nice weather and decorated their homes with wreaths, ribbon and reindeers.

The holidays are a time for friends and family to come together so get out in the community and enjoy the local festivities.

Holiday Lighting Ceremony - Thursday, Dec. 1

Join your neighbors at the 11th annual Holiday Lighting Ceremony at the Town of Hempstead’s Veterans Memorial Park Town Square at East Meadow and Prospect avenues. Hosted by the East Meadow Chamber of Commerce and Council of East Meadow Community Organizations, the event will feature a special appearance by Santa Claus. The lighting will take place at 6 p.m. For more information, call Dolores Rome at (516) 972-9872.

Christmas Concert – Saturday, Dec. 3

The choir of Holy Trinity Orthodox Church will present its annual Christmas concert at 7 p.m. The choir will sing Orthodox hymns and Western seasonal carols. Refreshments will be served. Admission and reception are free and evening prayer will be held at 6 p.m. before the concert. The church is located at 369 Green Avenue, East Meadow. For more information, call (516) 483-3649.

Nativity Blessing & Tree Lighting – Saturday, Dec. 3

The Parish of St. Raphael will host a nativity blessing and tree lighting following their 5 p.m. mass. The church is located at 600 Newbridge Road, East Meadow.

Christmas Tree Sale – Monday, Dec. 5

According to the East Meadow Fire Department website, they will begin their annual Christmas tree sale at Fire Station #1 on East Meadow Avenue on Monday, Dec. 5. Premium Balsams, Douglas Firs, Frasier Firs and wreaths will all be available for sale.

Chamber/Kiwanis Holiday Party - Monday, Dec. 5