Buchanan will officially welcome Santa Claus to the city this weekend with a parade and holiday lighting ceremony at the Buchanan Commons.

The annual tradition is free and begins with a parade at 6 p.m. Friday and a lighting ceremony at approximately 6:30 p.m.

Santa and Mrs. Claus will arrive in the Buchanan Commons amphitheater via fire truck. There, he will greet visitors and listen to Christmas wishes from area children. Hot drinks and refreshments will be served in the community center.

The event is offered by the city and sponsored by area businesses.

Debra Patzer, administrative assistant for the city, said the Buchanan High School band would play music while others sing Christmas carols.

“It’s a great holiday tradition to kick off the first Friday in December,” Patzer said. “We’ll make a big deal of throwing the switch and turning on the lights.”

Children attending will receive a bag of goodies.

The event is expected to last from 6 to 9 p.m.