Christmas kicks off in Cinnaminson Friday as Wood Park transforms into a winter wonderland.

Hundreds of residents will gather by the gazebo at 6:30 p.m. to take carriage rides around the park, listen to the Fralinger String Band, drink hot chocolate and of course, visit with Santa.

“It’s something the community really appreciates and they look forward to,” said Deputy Mayor Don Brauckmann, the director of parks and recreation.

(See photos of last year's event here.)

Also on hand will be singers and the band from Cinnaminson Middle School. After their performances, the Fralinger String Band will perform a 45-minute set, giving those in attendance a preview of their New Year’s Day performance.

“It should be a good show,” Brauckmann said. “They are so entertaining. They are consistently one of the best string bands.”

During the evening, hay-filled horse-drawn wagons will take residents around the park for a stroll. On the basketball cart, a train will take young riders around.

This year, the township is asking officials to participate in Toys For Tots, and bring a new, unwrapped toy for a donation.

Santa will be hearing wish lists in the gazebo and children of all ages can get a picture with the big guy, free of charge and on the spot.

Hot chocolate and cookies will be served.

The Cinnaminson Pee Wee cheerleaders are going to Disney World next week to compete and will be fundraising Friday night too, selling Cinnaminson Pirate Christmas shirts, a Vera Bradley Weekender bag raffle, Pep Boys car cleaning basket raffle, spirit color scarves and candy.

But get there early—festivities are set to start right at 6:30 p.m. After some comments from Mayor Kathy Fitzpatrick, the tree will be lit.

“These things are always a blast,” Brauckmann said. “It’s a great event every year.”