Commercialism and Christmas go hand-in-hand, or at least that’s what the market economy would like you to think. Traditionally the Christmas season is supposed to begin after Thanksgiving, but most retailers can barely wait until Halloween to start advertising for the holidays and putting out Christmas decor. To encourage holiday shoppers to get started before Thanksgiving, the Hill Country Galleria is holding a Christmas Tree Lighting on Thursday, November 15. However, your family can attend this event and get into the holiday spirit without spending a dime. Starting at 6pm with a dance performance by Paiyh Dance Studios there is a variety of free entertainment including fireworks and live music. This event will end at 9pm. In the midst of all these activities the Veritas Academy Drum Line will perform and at 7pm Santa will arrive! You don’t have to buy anything to enjoy the spectacle of a lit up tree and a sky illuminated by fireworks. The Austin weather may even vaguely resemble cooler weather that inhabitants of other parts of the country have the privilege to experience. For more information about this event, please visit: http://www.hillcountrygalleria.com/go/mallEvents.cfm?eventID=2145405279