Two annual events timed to the Christmas season will take place over the weekend.

On Saturday at 5:30 p.m is the Celebration of Lights, hosted by the Edward Hopkins Educational Foundation at the Hopkins Academy Gazebo at 131 Russell St.

Held since 2017, the event includes the lighting of the gazebo and a nearby evergreen tree, collection of unwrapped toys by representatives from the Hampshire Probate and Family Court, and light refreshments provided by Dunkin’, Barstow’s Dairy Store and Bakery, and the North Hadley Sugar Shack.

Caroling will be led by members of the local Brownies and Girl Scouts.

For the first time, Santa Claus and his elves are expected to be in attendance as well.

Judy Pelis, a member of the foundation, said families are encouraged to pose for photographs, including with Santa, adding that the site will be well lit for the holidays, with 300 lights on each of the gazebo’s four columns. In the gazebo is displayed the historic bell from the Russell School.

Pelis said a new tree has also been planted for the occasion.

The lighting will take place regardless of the weather.

Then at Sunday at 10 a.m., the First Congregational Church will present its annual outdoor Christmas pageant, with local farm animals alongside parishioners playing biblical roles, from the front of the 102 Middle St. site.

The event includes the lighting of the large outdoor Advent wreath before the pageant’s narration and songs. People are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, and families interested in having their young children play a part should arrive 45 minutes in advance to be outfitted with a costume.

In case of snow or rain, the event will be moved inside the church.

Lila West, who has written and directed the pageant, said in a statement that generations at the church have enjoyed the presentation.

“Since 2020 we have been outside, inviting everyone who drives by to share this joy,” West said. “Live farm animals have always been a highlight, and being outside allows us to recreate that chaotic but loving environment inside that stable over 2,000 years ago in Bethlehem.”