Mahwah November 30, 2011 THE VILLADOM TIMES IV • Page 15 The Mahwah Public Library, located at 100 Ridge Road, has planned several programs for the holiday season. These programs are free and no tickets are necessary. Seats will be available on a “first come” basis. Karen Luschar and Richard Danley will offer a piano concert, “Mistletoe and Holly,” on Sunday, Dec. 4 at 2 p.m. Hear favorite holiday classics and lesser known songs of the season. On Dec. 5, Professor Richard Lettis will present “Dickens’ Christmas Gift.” Lettis will explore what caused Dickens to write his classic story, “A Christmas Carol,” and discuss its message and artistry. Lettis, a professor emeritus of English literature at Long Island University, Public library schedules several holiday programs has published two books, a pamphlet, and articles on Dickens, Mark Twain, and J.D. Salinger. The program will begin at 7 p.m. Michele LaRue will perform Bret Harte’s “Dick Spindler’s Family Christmas” on Sunday, Dec. 11 at 2 p.m. This wild and romantic western fairy tale will be brought to life by professional actress LaRue’s expressive retelling. Savor the holidays with Christmas memories from Hollywood at “A Hollywood Christmas Celebration” with Bill Levy on Monday, Dec. 12 at 7 p.m. Films to be discussed include “It’s a Wonderful Life,” “A Christmas Carol,” “The Bishop’s Wife,” “White Christmas,” “Holiday Inn,” and “Miracle on 34th Street.” On Dec. 18, “The Polar Express 3D” will be shown at 2 p.m. The Chris Van Allsburg’s popular children’s book became a modern movie classic. The story opens on Christmas Eve when Hero Boy is suddenly awakened by a steam train outside his window. The train is leaving for the North Pole and Hero Boy, encouraged by a kindly conductor, joins the passengers on their journey to meet Santa. Three-D glasses, popcorn, movie snacks, and beverages will be provided. Call (201) 529-READ for additional details. The Township of Mahwah will hold its Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Festival on Sunday, Dec. 4 at municipal hall on Corporate Drive. The festivities begin in the Mahwah Senior Center with a 4:30 p.m. performance by the Joyce Kilmer Tree Lighting celebration set Choir. Santa Claus will arrive at 5 p.m. and light the tree in front of town hall. His elves will serve refreshments in the senior center while Santa hears requests for holiday gifts. Santa’s favorite magician will entertain.