WATERFORD — With new strings of lights gracing the giant evergreen in the Village Common, some Waterford residents have a serious case of Christmas spirit.

Festivities will begin at 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 20, when the Waterford Congregational Church will host an open house for families in its historic sanctuary followed by carol singing around the tree in the Common at 4:30 p.m.

Special new caroling books, purchased jointly by the church and the Waterford Library and donated to the town, will be available for the first time as local vocalist Jane Morse leads the community in song.

Following the singing of carols, everyone is invited to the library for treats and the traditional visit from Santa.

The church’s annual Christmas Eve service will be held at 5 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 24, and will feature choral music, readings and a live nativity scene with special music.

Everyone is invited to join in the celebration of the season.

FMI: www.facebook.com/waterfordchurchucc/?fref=ts.