Holland and Springfield Township area residents kicked off the holiday season Tuesday evening with the 20th annual tree lighting celebration at Strawberry Acres Park and Lodge.
Hundreds of residents braved the cold weather to watch the Springfield High choir and band perform under a near full moon. The outdoor performance was followed by Mayor Ryan Spangler welcoming the crowd, thanking sponsors and inviting youngsters to the stage to throw the switch and light the 24-foot tree.
Afterward, the crowd gathered in front of the lodge to greet Santa Claus, who arrived in traditional fashion with a Holland police escort and aboard a vintage Springfield Township Fire Department fire truck aglow with holiday lights.
Children followed Santa inside where they quickly formed a line to speak with the jolly old elf and have a complimentary photo taken. They and their families then enjoyed cookies and milk and took part in craft activities sponsored by area churches and the police department.
