Need to Know: Christmas Tree Lighting, Mayor Smith Steps Down, Newark Welcomes New City Leaders

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Here are five things you need to know in and around Newark through Dec. 9.

1. It’s time for the holidays and the City of Newark will hold its annual on Monday at 6 p.m. at the Newark City Hall, 37101 Newark Blvd. The ceremony will include a musical performance, refreshments, a raffle and an appearance by Santa and Mrs. Claus.
2. Music will fill the again this week with from local ensembles and choirs. From 3:45 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday the String Ensemble will peform. On Thursday, the Advance Choir will sing holiday jingles between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. Performances are held on the lower level near .
3. The Newark Planning Commission will discuss the election of officers during its Tuesday meeting at 7 p.m. at The will also be discussing boar re-organization at its meeting on Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. at the district office, 5715 Musick Ave.
4. Mayor David Smith will bid Newark farewell when he officially steps down as mayor during Thursday’s city council meeting, which begins at 7:30 p.m. at City Hall. Mayor Elect , will be sworn in at that meeting. That same day, Smith will be the guest speaker at the Chamber of Commerce Holiday Luncheon, which begins at 11:45 a.m. at the , 39900 Balentine Dr.
5. The Rotaract Club of Greater Fremont will hold its first fundraiser in hopes to raise funds forl on Saturday. The Gatsby Swing Fundraiser will be held at the Hilton Newark Hotel starting at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday. Tickets are $75.