Smackover's annual Christmas tree lighting, organized by the city's Chamber of Commerce, is set for Friday starting at 6 p.m. at Kennedy Park.
The event will be centered around the countdown to the lighting of the Christmas tree and other light displays in the downtown park.
Smackover Chamber of Commerce president Katrina Embry said this year's Christmas activities will include the lighting of the tree and the Eddie's Cross story read by Mayor Bobby Neal.
Santa Claus will also make a stop at the event and be available for pictures taken by photographer Brittany Trabbic, according to Embry.
"You can also enjoy a cup of hot chocolate and a cookie provided by the Chamber of Commerce. What's new - Bucks on Broadway will have a station set [up] for ornament making. As always, we look forward to seeing everyone," Embry said.
Eddie's Cross is a Christmas story read each year at the that highlights Smackover native Eddie Rouse, who was killed in combat on Dec. 10, 1944, during World War II.
A cross Rouse initially put up in his parent's yard won several years of decorating contests and eventually became a fixture in the town's holiday display. Rouse's parents continued to display the cross until their deaths; it now occupies a prominent place in Smackover during the holiday season, looming over the city from atop an oil derrick on Broadway Street.
Kennedy Park is located in downtown Smackover across from the Smackover State Bank.