Santa Claus is coming to town, along with the Backyardigans and some fireworks.

HRM’s 2012 Christmas tree lighting ceremony is at Grand Parade tonight!

Feed Nova Scotia will be there collecting food and cash donations, executive director Dianne Swinemar says the program plays an important roll over the Christmas months.

“We’re looking for food for Christmas and we’re looking for food for those cold winter months,” she explains. “This is a very critical time for us. We actually try to collect about half of our inventory this time of year.”

Efficiency Nova Scotia and the Mental Health Association will also be there.

Mayor Mike Savage and members of HRM council will be attending the event as well.

Savage says he looks forward to it.

“I’m not entirely sure what a Backyardigan looks like,” he says. “I’m looking forward to seeing that.”

He says there are new lights for the 40 foot tree this year.

The free event goes from 6 until 7 p.m.

Argyle Street between Duke and Carmichael will be closed to vehicles from 5 until 7 p.m.