By OnMilwaukee Staff Writers   Published Nov 20, 2012 at 9:54 AM

Milwaukee's historic Pfister Hotel kicks off the holiday season with its annual tree lighting ceremony Friday, Nov. 23.

This year's event, which runs from 5 to 6:30 p.m., includes complimentary hot cocoa and apple cider, performances by the Bel Canto Chorus and pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus, who will arrive at the festivities on a Milwaukee Fire Department fire truck.

Children can also bring their letters to Santa to the lighting ceremony and take part in crafts and cookie decorating.

Admission is free, but guests are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items for donation to the Hunger Task Force.

For more information and a listing of The Pfister's holiday activities, visit the hotel website.