Bethlehem's Christmas City Tree Lighting Ceremony continues to draw huge crowds despite cold temperatures. Hats, scarves, gloves, and hot chocolate were some of the accessories prevalent this year. The tree lighting and the arrival of Santa Claus is usually the highlight of the event. This year the crowd was surprised and delighted by a firework display which seemed to have been a well kept secret.

The Liberty HS Band, directed by Kevin Long, entertained the gathering prior to the introduction by William Guth. Mayor John B. Callahan gave the welcome speech followed by the singing of the National Anthem by Luke DiGiancinto. The Rev. Hopeton Clennon gave the Invocation which was proceeded by the LV Charter High School for the Arts choral presentation under the direction of David Macbeth. John Cornich invited the community to sing along to "Jesus, Call Thou to Me."

Bill Jones, winner of the Christmas City Seal contest, received his recognition and a check from Tim Gilman.

James Buchanan ES students Olivia Dempsey, William Rodriguez, Nathan Schlegel, Matthew Tomac, Emily Trexler and Rokia Whitehouse helped Callahan flip the switch to turn the lights on the tree. Fireworks lit up the night sky and added additional sparkle to the eyes of children and adults alike. A community sing followed prior to the Benediction.

And then the arrival of Santa Claus put the finishing touches on an early holiday evening.