The holiday season will officially begin as hundreds of Houston children celebrate at the 26th annual Wortham Theater Center Tree Lighting Ceremony – a joyous festival held in the Grand Foyer of Wortham Theater Center downtown.

The highlight of the event will take place when the Sugar Plum Fairy lights the theater's 25-foot Christmas tree, illuminated with 8,000 sparkling lights. Other festivities include visits by characters from The Nutcracker and live holiday music by local bands and choirs, including the Salvation Army Harbor Light Choir. Children will also have the chance to have their picture taken with Santa Claus.