Once again, it is time to light up the historic Amtrak Depot in Niles.

This weekend’s Hometown Christmas will mark the 23rd time the depot has been made to shine bright for the city’s annual free holiday tradition.

Put on by the Four Flags Garden Club, Hometown Christmas will take place from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Saturday at 600 Dey St., located off North Fifth Street.

The depot, which was built in 1892, has been decorated inside and out by many of the club’s 24 members as a way to welcome visitors not only to the event itself, but also to those arriving in the city by train this holiday season.

The centerpiece of the decor — a Fraser Fir Tree — was donated by the Pinecrest Christmas Tree Farm in Galien.

The event is open to anyone — not just Niles residents.

“When we say it is a hometown Christmas we truly mean it — a lot of people do come for this weekend to spend time with their families,” said garden club member Mary Ann Burdue. “It is a really great way for families to come together.”

The tradition of decorating the depot for Christmas began in 1990 when a scene for the movie “Only the Lonely,” featuring John Candy, was shot at the depot.

When the filmmakers left Niles, they left the lights, and the Four Flags Garden Club and community members joined together in a campaign to keep the lights burning.

The tradition of lighting the depot has been upheld every year since.

Members of the Community Evangelical Free Church Choir will perform a variety of musical styles, including traditional Christmas carols and holiday songs.

Santa Claus will arrive to greet children and their families, who can partake in homemade cookies, cider and candy.

Niles Mayor, Mike McCauslin, will address the group, and community royalty will stop by.

A special drawing will be held at 5:45 p.m. for two round trip tickets, compliments of Amtrak, from Niles to Chicago. The tickets are free, but you must be present to win.