All Saints by-the-Sea Episcopal Church invites neighbors, friends and families to its Christmas Tree Lighting Festival, 4-6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6 at 83 Eucalyptus Lane, Santa Barbara.

Designed to evoke an old-fashioned holiday celebration, the festival will feature a petting zoo, face painting, crafts, and food trucks.

The afternoon will culminate with a story from St. Nicholas and Christmas carols around the tree in the church courtyard.

“Our Christmas Tree Lighting Festival is something we look forward to every year,” said the Rev. Channing Smith, rector of All Saints-by-the-Sea. “It is a true community event that All Saints is happy to offer. We hope each year it continues to grow. All are welcome.”

Smith and his wife Mary started the festival to bring the congregation and the wider community together during the holiday season.

“Our hope is that this becomes an annual tradition for all of the families who attend and that children will return each year and catch up with old friends,” Smith said.

“Our hope is that All Saints becomes a place of connection during this busy time of year,” he said.

Visitors need not be members of All Saints by-the-Sea to attend.