Union City residents will finally be able to declare: "It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!"

In what some consider to be the opening of the city's holiday season, the Masonic Home at Union City will hold its 10th Annual Holiday Tree Lighting tonight, Dec. 9, at 5 p.m. 

Like a bat symbol on the foot hills signaling for the spirit of Christmas, locals far and wide look to the home on the hill for its traditional light-strung tree. Those residing in the Masonic Home and Acacia Creek, its neighboring not-for-profit continuing care retirement community, also delight in the yuletide timber show.

"The residents look forward to this every year," said Alexandra Gonzalez, the Masonic Home's Communication Clerk. 

And for good reason. The evening will feature an array of refreshments, entertainment provided by local schools, a contest, raffles and Santa Claus for kids.

"But the main highlight of the event is the tree lighting itself," Gonzalez noted. 

The public is welcome to attend the Mason Home's tree lighting and is advised to car pool as parking is limited. Call (510) 471-3434 for more information. 

The Masonic Home is located at 34400 Mission Boulevard.