It’s fun, free and the perfect way to start off the holidays. Baton Rouge’s Downtown Festival of Lights takes place from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday. There’s lots to offer, so these four things will give you some direction.

LIGHT ‘EM UP: The city’s 25-foot Christmas tree on North Boulevard, strewn with half a million sparkling lights, will be lit, followed by a fireworks show over the Mississippi River.

The countdown with Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broom will begin around 6:20 p.m. The optimum spot for viewing is in Town Square facing the Christmas tree and the river.

WHERE’S SANTA?: After helping with the tree countdown, Old St. Nick and Mrs. Claus will head over to the Louisiana Old State Capitol, 100 North Blvd., for a special photo-op and other holiday festivities. This “Santa in The Senate” event, an annual tradition, runs from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

There also will be a Christmas film screening in the old House Chamber, arts and crafts for children to take part in, and a special treat upon exiting the building.

LET IN SNOW!: Families can play in 10 tons of real snow in Town Square across from the River Center Branch Library. In addition, a Rockefeller Center-style skating rink will be set up on the first floor of the River Center Plaza.

“Just like in NYC, festivalgoers can stand around the balcony and look down at the children skating on the plaza, the Downtown Development District says. Note: Snow Village begins at 5 p.m. and skating starts at 4 p.m.; Both activities are for ages 5-15 only.

GET ARTSY: The Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge offers an Artists Village on the Rhorer Plaza Lawn. Ten-plus local artists will sell handmade crafts.

The festival also will include a bake sale, hot chocolate and multiple food vendors.

For more information, visit downtownbatonrouge.org/discover-downtown/events.

— Judy Bergeron