A new tree was planted in Pitt Meadows in late September, which would have hardly seemed Christmas-like at the time.

However, the Sequoia - a coastal redwood tree - will be the new centrepiece for A Pitt Meadows Christmas.

"We have a new City Christmas tree," said Michael Hayes, chair of the Pitt Meadows Foundation and co-chair of A Pitt Meadows Christmas. "It's a beautiful Sequoia."

He is proud of the new tree, and rightly so. When the event is held on Dec. 7, the tree lighting will continue to be a focal point.

"The official city treelighting will be at 6: 30 [p.m.]," Hayes noted. "About the same time Santa arrives in the horse drawn sleigh."

The man in red and the tree may command a lot of attention, but there are plenty of other things to see and do, including the traditional snow sculpture.

"It's hard to get snow at that time of year," Hayes said. "An artist from Langley, who's actually a sand sculpture artist, does this [snow sculpture] in the winter time. He says his inspiration doesn't come until 48 hours before the event, so we never know what we're going to get."

The placement of the new tree, fears of undesirable weather, and the growing crowds have forced Hayes and his elves to rethink the layout of the site plan. Organizers expect upwards of 2,000 people to attend, if the weather cooperates.

"We've been fortunate with the weather for the last three years," he said. "ReMax has come forward with two tents that we can get most everyone under."

Look for music, entertainment, crafts, firemen, and the RCMP in red serge at the event, noted Hayes.

Plus, bring a camera to capture a shot of loved ones with Santa, or perhaps a photo in front of the snow sculpture.

"There will be some dancers this year from Peggy Peat's school of dance," said Hayes in regards to entertainment. A number of other acts are still being confirmed.

The local Girl Guides will be hosting the craft and colouring table. Bring in the colouring sheet from The TIMES or colour a new sheet onsite to enter the colouring contest.

A Christmas tree decorating contest will also be held at A Pitt Meadows Christmas.

Look for hot chocolate, cookies, candy canes, and Mandarin oranges from Langley Farm Market, while they last. Waves Coffee House will also be on hand with free coffee and BC Hydro has a tent filled with games.

How will people know what to do and where to go when they get there? Well, Steve Darling of Global TV will be emceeing the event and keep everyone focused.

"This is all about bringing family and friends together and enjoying everyone's company together," said Hayes.

A Pitt Meadows Christmas will be at the Pitt Meadows Spirit Square at 12007 Harris Rd. from 6 to 8 p.m. on Dec. 7.

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