It's a very grand evening in downtown Annapolis and you won't want to miss it.

It's the Grand Illumination, the annual lighting of Annapolis Christmas tree, which will be held from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Sunday at Hopkins Plaza next to the Market House downtown.

But it's so much more than firing up the lights on the grand tree — there will be performances by the Chesapeake Dance Academy, the St. Mary's Noel Choir and the Talent Machine, among others.

The Annapolis Jaycees will provide hot chocolate, glow sticks and ornaments for children to decorate the tree. They also will be collecting nonperishable food items and new, unwrapped toys for their annual Angel Tree Project, which supports 20 local families in need.

Santa Claus will be arriving by the Circulator trolley, followed by Mayor Mike Pantelides saying few words just before the tree lighting around 7 p.m.

For more information, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Messiah community sing-along

You're invited to join the congregation St. James' Episcopal Church in the south county community of Lothian for the annual Messiah community sing-along at 4 p.m. Sunday.

The sing-along, directed by Michael S. Ryan, is un-rehearsed and includes a chamber ensemble, soloists, organ and trumpet. Singers in this come-as-you-are, walk-in chorus are encouraged to bring a snack or dessert and a score. Some scores will be available to borrow or purchase for $10.

A candlelight reception will follow the sing-along in the parish hall next to the church at 5757 Solomons Island Road. Admission is free; a free will offering will be taken to benefit the Salvation Army.

For more information, visit http://www.stjameslothian.com.

Two nights of Madness downtown

This event is not until next Thursday night (and the Thursday after that), but we're highlight it now so you can make plans to attend.

Annapolis' annual Midnight Madness celebration will be held Dec. 4 and Dec. 11. Stores in downtown and in the State Circle-Maryland Avenue shopping district will be open from 6 p.m. to midnight for holiday shopping.

Look for live music on the streets and a visit from Santa.

Also, many merchants will offer complimentary refreshments both nights.

What's more, an 11th-hour shopping event will be held Dec. 18, and stores will be open until 11 p.m.

All three nights are a great opportunity to head out for dinner, then spending the nights walking the streets of the capital city and support its merchants.

For more information, visit http://www.annapolisbusinessassoc.com.