SYRACUSE -- A perfect way to kick start the holiday season is the annual tree lighting in Clinton Square. That's where thousands spent Friday night to join in the food, fun and festivities.
It's a holiday tradition for so many. City officials expected more than 10,000 would brave the cold weather, sip some hot cocoa and watch the 8th annual Holiday Magic in the Square. Ginny Kapacinski came from Elbridge and says, "We make it a tradition every year. The day after Thanksgiving the kids go bowling, we go have dinner, then we always come down to the Christmas tree lighting."
With the lighting of the tree comes the smiles on hundreds of children's faces along with fond memories for parents. "It kinda starts the holiday out nice for us. We get to see the tree lighting, we wanted to bring our son, Thomas, out so he could see Santa Claus, Mrs Claus, and hear some music," says Laura Koons.
Preperations for the tree lighting begin more than two months in advance with dance practices and lead up until the last minute before the tree is lit. Whether it's your first year, or your eighth, those who watch say it's well worth it. "We enjoyed it last year so much being here with our daughter and son in law that we had to come back again to see the spectacular event, it's a beautiful events," says Marie Roma.
For many, it won't end Friday since they can hit the ice for the next few months for ice skating.
