Festive Fifth

Brooklyn's answer to the Upper West Side's Winter's Eve packs a Park Slope–style punch: Along Fifth Ave between Dean and 18th Sts (that's 30 blocks in all!), locally-owned businesses will stay open late for post–Black Friday shopping, but the real fun is centered around the tree lighting (6:30pm, Fifth Ave at 3rd St), where a real 20-foot tree will brighten the corner. Afterwards, sip free hot chocolate and say hi to Santa Claus as he makes his way down the street, giving out candy canes. Local children's groups and carolers from Opera on Tap will perform and line the avenue along with other live entertainment. Nearby shops will be decked out in holiday decor also stay open late for the occasion. All ages.