The neighborhood south of the Lehigh River kicked off the holiday season with the Southside Christmas Tree lighting ceremony celebrated at Touchstone Theater’s Barrio Stage Nov. 26.

Southside Arts District Downtown Manager Erin Zebertavage announced the city is offering free parking on Saturdays through the end of December, as she emceed the event. Sponsored by Lehigh Valley Health Network, shoppers can park without paying for 2-hour intervals at meters covered by green bags. These spots are available along the Main Street area of Historic Bethlehem and in the Southside Arts District.

The evening’s featured entertainment included holiday tunes sung by folksinger Dave Fry and a preview performance of Touchstone Theatre’s annual “Christmas City Follies.”

Moravian University MFA students delighted attendees with interactive skits that led up to the official lighting of the tree at the far end of the outdoor stage. Cast members include Robert Mills (Host Mistle Tony), Krystal Danielle (Sugar Twinkletoes), Tyler Garrett (Red Nose Randy), Larry Mason (Santa), Latrice Young (Elf), and Shai McCall (Elf).

State Rep. Steve Samuelson and Mayor William Reynolds hung out with those in the audience.

Katy Wirth from Southside Arts District was stationed at a table promoting shopping local and the Southside Christmas Tree Trail. People were encouraged to check out the decorated trees at 15 neighborhood businesses and vote for a favorite through Dec. 17.

Roasted served hot cocoa, home-baked cookies and other healthy treats they brought from their restaurant at 22 West Fourth St.

Five Maidens Cider Company sold cups of hard cider they brewed at their 327 Polk St. operation next to Touchstone Theatre.