Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive on a Perkasie Electric Truck to light the Christmas tree. Photo by John Worthington | The Reporter.
Thousands swarmed downtown Saturday for the town’s 116th annual tree lighting ceremony.
Hoisted high in the air by crane, Santa Claus lit the towering Perkasie Christmas tree before a sea of onlookers.
Thousands swarmed downtown Perkasie Saturday, December 7 for the town’s 116th annual tree lighting ceremony, the oldest in the nation.
“We’re part of it,” said Perkasie Mayor Jeff Hollenbach. “We all could use a little hope, a little peace, a little joy this time of year and may your Christmas be filled with that.”
Thousands gathered for the 116th annual Perkasie tree lighting ceremony Saturday, Dec. 7. 
11-year-old Zane Sipe (center) helped Santa Claus light the tree after being selected by random draw.
By John Worthington | The Reporter
Santa Claus is hoisted in the air by crane to light the Christmas tree.
The crowd watches Santa Claus light the Christmas tree.The ceremony was accompanied by an extravaganza of attractions and activities, including aerial acrobatics, a wagon ride and a horse and carriage ride. Other entertainment included live music, wandering carolers and children’s games.
As the tree lighting approached, Santa and Mrs. Claus arrived on a Perkasie Electric Truck to great fanfare. Loud cheers and applause filled the air as the tree was lit aglow. Eleven-year-old Zane Sipe was selected by random draw to help Santa light the tree.
Following the ceremony, Santa and Mrs. Claus settled in the RE/MAX440 building for photos, with families lining up at the entrance. Rounding out the event were Christmas treats, food trucks and shopping and dining specials.
Aerialists perform aerial acrobatics.
Mike Greer and Co. perform a medley of Christmas songs.
A wagon ride departs.
