Forest Acres ushers in the holidays with its fifth annual signature holiday event, "Sweet Seasons" on Thursday, December 4, 6- 8 pm. Always laden with free food samples, holiday music and giveaways, this year's "Sweet Seasons" will also showcase gift vendors for the first time. The event is free and open to the public.

Sweet Seasons is held on the rooftop of Midtown at Forest Acres Mall, at the corner of Beltline and Forest Drive. Parking is free and just a few steps from the action.

Some of the happenings slated for the evening are

• Steel pan drum band Island Close By will play.

• Columbia's Victorian quartet Carillon Carolers will sing classic holiday songs.

• Free samples will be available from local restaurants.

• Forest Acres Mayor Frank Brunson will light the holiday tree at 7 pm.

• Face painting, photos with Santa, performances by the Columbia Marionette Theater and a balloon artist will take place.

• Door prizes, coupons and goodie bags from variouse stores.

For more information, contact Katie Alice Cox at 227-0914 or kcox@rileycommunications. com.