By Tom Dalton
SALEM — Friday is the day after Thanksgiving, which can only mean two things: post-turkey indigestion and the arrival of Santa.
Old St. Nicholas is scheduled to descend from the roof of the Hawthorne Hotel around 6 p.m. with the help of the Salem Fire Department. He will then distribute candy to children gathered on Salem Common.
Mayor Kim Driscoll will extend the greetings of the city and escort Santa and his elves down the Essex Street pedestrian mall for the 6:15 p.m. lighting of the Christmas tree.
Inside Museum Place Mall, children will be able to sit on Santa's lap while merchants provide face-painting and entertainment.
Santa's arrival is organized by Salem Main Streets, Salem Chamber of Commerce and the city.
