The “Stroll in the Glow,” a small-town family-friendly festive event on the Avenue of the Fountains, happens only once a year.

Mark your calendar for activities to get under way at 5 p.m. and last until 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, according to Sharon Morgan, events manager for the Chamber of Commerce.

The Chamber and town jointly sponsor the annual celebration to mark the official start of the holiday season.

Most retail businesses will extend hours, serve refreshments and provide gift ideas for early holiday shoppers.

A saxophone quartet comprised of Fountain Hills Community Band members will perform from 4:30 to 5 p.m., followed by the entire band until 5:30 p.m. Girl Scouts and Brownies will sing carols.

Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church members will recreate a live animal nativity scene. Youngsters will be able to pet the animals.

RE/MAX Sun Properties Realtors will provide two horse-drawn hay wagons for free rides from 5 to 7 p.m. on the Avenue of the Fountains.

Excitement will build shortly before 6 p.m. when the holiday lights and static displays in the median plaza are lit. Santa will arrive by fire truck close to 6 p.m. to greet the children and hear their wish lists.

Community Center

Sipping hot cocoa, tracking model trains, crafting tree ornaments and frolicking with elves are some activities at the “Elf in the Hills” Christmas holiday party from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, in the Community Center.

Known for their mischievousness, the elves have planned silly and fun games with prizes. There’s usually a kazoo band and parade marching around the center. Refreshments will be served.

Decorative wreaths and Christmas trees will adorn the center. Ken Burling of Burling’s Ton of Trains will again operate interactive model train layouts for the delight of both youngsters and their parents and grandparents

The free event provides an afternoon of family entertainment.

River of Time

The grand re-opening of the L. Alan Cruikshank River of Time Museum is scheduled for 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec.5.

The Chamber of Commerce will participate in the ribbon-cutting ceremony to note the new water exhibit.