It's Collingswood's Most Wonderful Time of the Year

Collingswood residents know their town has holiday spirit mastered, and the 2011 season will be no exception.

The bells start ringing at 7 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 25, during .

During, Santa Claus himself will descend from the roof of , taking the journey rung by rung on 's ladder truck, ho-ho-ing all the way.

The ceremony will bring back traditional favorites, with seasonal tunes being sung by choral ensembles, over a quarter of a million dollars-worth of string lights, garlands, snow machines, and dancing elves.

The borough's official evergreen tree will be lit, and the mayor and commissioners will offer season's greetings for all in attendance.

But once the town is lit in its holiday glow, it's recommended that residents get to bed early—because at 10 a.m. the following morning, on Saturday, Nov. 26, begins.

Named Best Main Street Experience by South Jersey Magazine, the parade features lively seasonal entertainment, including marching bands, dancers, holiday characters, giants on stilts, floats, mummers, live music—even sports mascots like the Phillie Phanatic.

The parade route is set to begin at the intersection of Haddon and Zane avenues, travelling down Haddon and ending at W. Linden Avenue.

Antique motorcycles and automobiles will also be showcased along the route.

But this year, the fun doesn't stop when the parade does.

Following the parade, will host the South Jersey S. Gaugers Train Display, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. While scouting train models, guests can warm up with hot chocolate, coffee and cookies. Seasonal arts and crafts will also be on hand.

Those who've spent the holidays in Collingswood will be back. And those who haven't are in for a treat.