It's that most wonderful time of the year in Newark, when the Downtown District lights up with holiday spirit and decorates your calendar with cheery events.

Newark Downtown District fourth annual Holiday Tree Lighting, Nov. 27, 4-8 p.m.

Kicking off the holiday season on Monday, Nov. 27, is the Newark Downtown District's fourth annual Holiday Tree Lighting. Bring the whole family to Championship Plaza at the Prudential Center for a free and festive gathering. The fun will be nonstop from 4 to 8 p.m. with music and merriment, including a DJ and performances by the Roberto Clemente School Choir. Victorian Carolers bring Dickensian charm with classic holiday tunes.

Kids will have a chance to meet some of their favorite characters, including Moana, Olaf, Iron Man and the Minions. And don't forget the biggest character of all -- Santa Claus! Kids of all ages can pose for free pictures with Santa and receive a special holiday gift.

Enjoy a variety of carnival games, a trackless train and a synthetic ice skating rink -- no skates required.

During the Nov. 27 tree lighting event from 4 to 8 p.m., kids will have a chance to meet some of their favorite characters, including Moana, Olaf, Iron Man and the Minions and the biggest character of all: Santa Claus.

Tree Lighting at 5:30 p.m. Don't miss that dramatic moment as the evening's special guests, Honorable Mayor Ras J. Baraka, NJ Devils President Hugh Weber and Newark Downtown District Chief Executive Officer Anthony McMillan will have the honor of lighting the tree.

In addition to an array of carnival games and a trackless train, the fourth annual Holiday Tree Lighting presented by the Newark Downtown District will feature a synthetic ice skating rink -- no skates required.

Keep that warm holiday feeling going on the inside with hot chocolate and some of the best meals on wheels from one of several food trucks, including Ruthy's Rolling Cafe and Halal.

Victorian Carolers will bring Dickensian charm to Newark's Holiday Tree lighting event, offering fun for the entire family on Nov. 27 from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Prudential Center's Championship Plaza, at the corner of Market and Lafayette streets..

It's an event you won't want to miss, so save the rain date on your calendar, too: Nov. 29.

Venue: Championship Plaza, Prudential Center @ Market and Lafayette streets

Greater Newark Conservancy: Annual Poinsettia & Wreath Fundraiser, Now through Nov. 16 and Holiday Market, Dec. 2

Now taking orders through Nov. 16, the Greater Newark Conservancy is back with this popular Poinsettia & Wreath fundraising event to help with holiday shopping and corporate gifts. Poinsettias in an array of specialty colors make thoughtful gifts for family and friends, or can set your corporate brand apart from the competition. Business delivery orders will arrive beginning Thursday, Nov. 30.

Pick up your orders at the Holiday Market on Dec. 2 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and do some more shopping with a variety of vendors and local crafters. Enjoy hot cocoa and artisanal foods while you're browsing, or sign up to decorate your own wreath to bring home.

Venue: Greater Newark Conservancy @ 32 Prince St.

A Night of Newark Gala, Dec. 7

The Newark Community Economic Development Corp. will hold its first "Night of Newark" gala from 6 to 10 p.m. at The Mezzanine at The National Newark Building. It's a celebration of all things Newark, showcasing local talent, great food, creatives and more that's meant to underscore Mayor Ras J. Baraka's Hire Buy Live initiative.

Venue: The Mezzanine at The National Newark Building @ 744 Broad St.

NJPAC's The Hip Hop Nutcracker featuring Kurtis Blow, Dec. 15

"An urban dance retelling of a timeless fairytale, featuring rap legend Kurtis Blow as special guest MC," the Hip Hop Nutcracker will make for a spirited evening of music and dance that will become a new holiday tradition for the entire family. It's a celebration of "love, community and the magic of the holiday season." Tickets available through NJPAC sales.

Venue: NJPAC @ 1 Center St.

Newark Symphony Hall presents Alfred Gallman's "Nutcracker, A Soulful Christmas," Dec. 18

A favorite Christmas ballet comes to life in a spirit-filled production featuring 100 dancers from local dance studios with beautiful costumes and the classic music of Tchaikovsky, Duke Ellington and Bishop Nathaniel Townsley's Gospel Singers. Tickets available through Newark Symphony Hall.

Venue: Newark Symphony Hall @ 1020 Broad St.

The Newark Downtown District brings a sleighful of gifts for holiday fun and entertainment, with something special for all ages to unwrap and enjoy all through the season!

-- Susan Kronberg