Breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus, caroling by the Willsboro Central School Music Department, a cookie-baking contest and a Reindeer Run are some of the many events planned for this year’s Christmas in Essex Village, which is set for Friday, Dec. 2, through Dec. 4.

A tree-lighting ceremony and carols will kick off the celebration on Friday at 5:30.
On Saturday, Santa and Mrs. Claus are slated to arrive on the 9:30 ferry to share breakfast and cheer with children and parents at the Essex Fire House. Starting at 10:00 both Saturday and Sunday, shoppers can browse for gifts and holiday decorations in the Essex shops, at the Adirondack Art Association and from holiday vendors at the historic Town Hall where a variety of pets will await petting and adoption under the auspices of NCSPCA. On Saturday shoppers will have the added treat of attending the annual Community Church Bazaar and Luncheon, which starts at 10:00.

On Saturday at 1 p. m., Laura Abate, author of “Monster by the Masters” and daughter of Sid Couchey, will sign her book at the Belden Noble Library. To add to the fun, the Essex Ice Cream Shop will present its popular holiday photo booth throughout the day on Saturday and Sunday.

Sunday’s schedule is packed with many additional events: Lunch & dinner at the Essex Inn starting at 11, the Reindeer Run for children and adults at 12:45 (rain or shine), a Christmas cookie contest with a $50 prize at 2:00 and a holiday choral performance by the Willsboro Central School Music Department at 3:00. The choral performance will be followed by a cookie & cocoa reception with the singers. Cookie bakers should bring at least one dozen cookies, half for tasting and half for sale.