Clayton News Daily

Stellar award winner and Grammy nominated gospel artist Byron Cage is scheduled to headline the Tree Lighting Holiday Concert at the Riverdale Town Center.

RIVERDALE — Grammy nominated and Stellar Award winner Gospel Artist Byron Cage is headlining Riverdale’s Christmas concert, Saturday.

The Tree Lighting Holiday Celebration begins at 5 p.m., at Riverdale Town Center Amphitheater, located at 7200 Church St., in Riverdale, according to the city’s Director of Cultural Affairs and Leisure Services, Cie Cie Wilson McGhee.

Admission is free for the event and parking is $5.

“I encourage people to bring their lawn chairs,” McGhee said. “We will also be collecting unwrapped toys which will be donated to Toys for Tots.”

Cage is known for such gospel hits such as “Yet Praise Him,” and “The Presence of the Lord is Here,” along with numerous other recordings.

Other gospel artists scheduled to perform during the holiday celebration are Darlene McCoy, Alvin Darling and Shamora.

McCoy is a mid-day announcer for WPZE Praise 102.5/ 102.9 FM. She has a hit tune, “I shall live and not die.”

McGhee said WPZE Praise 102.5/ 102.9 FM will do live remotes hosted by K. D. Bowe.

Darling will perform his hit song “All night,” and gospel jazz vocalist Shamora will be performing her rendition of Donnie Hathaway’s “This Christmas.”

“Christmas carols will be performed by school choirs,” McGhee added. “We will be giving away free hot chocolate and hot apple cider which has been donated by various partners including D.T.L.R. [Downtown Locker Room] apparel store.”

Church Street Elementary chorus, Point South Elementary chorus, Martin Luther King Elementary chorus, and the Riverdale Middle school orchestra are also slated to perform.

“We try to provide inspirational entertainment during the holiday season, in a safe environment for families to fellowship,” said the city director.

She added Riverdale police will be on hand during the event.

Holiday vendors will be selling food, jewelry and Christmas decorations. Santa Claus will be on hand to take photos at a cost of $5 each.