The Johnson Center for the Arts will host its annual Christmas Open House and Tree Lighting Ceremony from 1 until 5 p.m. Sunday. The public is invited.

Morgan Drinkard, Center executive director, said the Open House will feature the debut of the Johnson Center’s 2013 Christmas ornaments created by Tara Sartorius, former curator of education at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts.

“We are extremely excited about this year’s Johnson Center for the Arts Christmas ornaments just as we are every year,” Drinkard said. “Tara Sartorius is an outstanding artist and the ornaments that she has created are each unique. The ornaments are in the shape of a cross but have different colors and textures. It will be very difficult to choose a favorite.”

The ornaments are $30 each.

This year’s Open House will have something different, exciting and something that will provide a unique holiday shopping experience.

“In the past, we’ve had a silent auction but, this year, we’re going to open the Christmas Center Store that will feature artwork and artisan items by local artists,” Drinkard said. “The Christmas Center Store will offer unique items that will make the giving and receiving of Christmas gifts very special.”

The Christmas Center Store will have a large variety of gift ideas but shoppers just might find something special for themselves.

On the shelves of the Christmas Center Store will be artwork by Kristi Ellis Drinkwater, Mary Ann Casey, Kristen Hues and nationally acclaimed artist Charlie Lucas. One of a kind items will include Japanese pottery, pewter serving pieces, dinnerware and much more. Gift certificates to restaurants and entertainment events are expected to go fast.

The Christmas Center Store will be open during the Johnson Center’s regular hours, from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and until 3 p.m. on Saturday. The Center will be closed on Thanksgiving Day.

At 4 p.m. Sunday, the Christmas trees in the Johnson Center will be lighted to the applause and cheers of those who wait anxiously each year for this special ceremony.

The trees have been beautifully decorated by local schools and businesses and bring the magic of Christmas to the Johnson Center for the Arts.

Music will enhance the Open House and refreshments will be served.

Drinkard said everyone is invited to the Johnson Center for the Arts Open House and Tree Lighting Ceremony and to join friends and neighbors in welcoming the coming of the Christmas season.