In his lifetime of public service, U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye has done many things for the Islands, but throwing the switch to turn on the lights at the annual Honolulu city Christmas tree lighting ceremony is not one of them.

That could change Saturday after Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann invited Inouye to come to the ceremony and do the honors. Inouye is scheduled to be in the Islands this weekend, but his appearance has not yet been confirmed.

Whether it's Inouye or Hannemann turning on the lights, the city's annual free light show is expected to draw droves of families searching for cost-conscious activities this holiday season.

The city's annual holiday celebration and city Christmas tree lighting ceremony are scheduled for 6 p.m. Saturday, featuring entertainment by Amy Hanaiali'i Gillom.

Food booths open at 4 p.m. Hannemann and first lady Gail Mukaihata Hannemann will be joined by members of his staff and Cabinet at a holiday music concert at Kawaiaha'o Church at 5 p.m.

The public is invited to attend.

At 6:30 p.m., the annual Public Workers Electric Light Parade arrives outside Honolulu Hale along King Street.

The city Employee Christmas Tree Display will open in the Honolulu Hale courtyard, and the annual Christmas wreath display will be featured in the Lane Gallery portion of Honolulu Hale.

New this year is a gingerbread house display.

A concert on the Fasi Civic Center grounds featuring John Cruz, Jake Shimabukuro, Karen Keawehawaii, J Boog and Laga Savea wraps up the night's festivities.