Quincy kicks off weekend of holiday activities with annual Christmas tree lighting

The city of Quincy marked the beginning of the holiday season Friday night with its annual tree lighting tradition Residents gathered to observe the twinkling lights falling snowflakes and musical performances I just love it because look it s festive out tonight and it s like the beginning of the holiday season mentioned Margaret Chaberek Quincy Mayor Thomas Koch stood on stage next to the guest of honor Santa Claus Koch declared the tree lighting has been a Quincy tradition for more than years and it only continues to grow in popularity You see all the kids and their families coming together You see the kids over the years have grown they come back with their kids and their grandkids so it s a great tradition he announced It s all about bringing those smiles on the kids faces The lighting is a yearly ritual for plenty of families but others commented this year was their first time experiencing the celebration I came here to see the tree lighting and the beautiful music stated Ava Deronette People involved announced the night is all about getting into the holiday spirit and bringing the public together I ve been doing it since I was little explained Kelly McNally City of over a hundred thousand but tonight it s nights like this you feel like a small town disclosed Koch And the celebrations continue into the weekend Santa will be flying into the city on a helicopter Saturday and there will be a Christmas parade held on Sunday