Santa Claus will arrive in downtown Fort Dodge Monday evening to launch the holiday season.

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, his arrival will be livestreamed on the Facebook pages of MainStreet Fort Dodge and the Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance.

“We are thankful we can follow Gov. Reynolds’ latest proclamation and safety restrictions while allowing the public the opportunity to explore the downtown lighting ceremony virtually via our Facebook channel and the Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance Facebook channel through Iowa Central Community College’s partnership,” said Luke Hugghins, the president of Main Street Fort Dodge. “Community safety and supporting our independent businesses remain our top priority.”

Santa and Mrs. Claus will arrive at 5 p.m. Monday at the City Square. There, they will be greeted by Mayor Matt Bemrich. Together they will light the gazebo on the City Square.

Then Santa and Mrs. Claus will proceed down Central Avenue to Veterans Triangle Park at Central Avenue and 12th Street. There, they will light the 55-foot tall evergreen tree.

Green State Credit Union paid for the lights on that tree. Employees from MidAmerican Energy Co. put the lights up earlier this week.

With the tree glittering with lights, the holiday couple will go to the Dariette, 17 S. 12th St., where Santa will listen to some holiday wishes between 5:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. The Dariette will provide a treat for children.

The event is made possible by Green State Credit Union, MidAmerican Energy Co., the Fort Dodge city government, Becker Florist and Kemna Auto of Fort Dodge.