Chamber, Fire Department hosting holiday events

The Merrick Chamber of Commerce is busily preparing for the arrival of Santa Claus on Saturday, Dec. 6, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Santa will be whisked into downtown Merrick by Merrick Fire Department truck and delivered to the gazebo at Veterans Memorial Plaza, beside the Long Island Rail Road station.

Jolly Old St. Nick will hear children’s Christmas requests. Parents –– have your cameras ready! Hot cocoa and sweet treats will be served.

The chamber will then hold a menorah- and Christmas tree-lighting ceremony, also at Veterans Memorial Plaza, on Sunday, Dec. 7, at 6 p.m. Refreshments will be served.

Finally, the Merrick Fire Department is holding its annual Christmas tree and wreath sale, which began on Nov. 30 and will run as long as supplies last. Sale hours are Monday to Friday, from 6 to 9 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Trees range from 6 to 14 feet high. All are premium-grade Fraser firs from North Carolina.