BIG FINISH ¿ Onlookers watch the fireworks Friday night ¿ the grand finale of the Christmas tree lighting ceremony held at Veterans and Gansevoort Parks and North James Street. The crowd is looking south along James Street, with the fireworks launched from the parking garage. More photos, page 3.(Sentinel photo by Stefan Matwijec)

MEET AND GREET ¿ Lacie Wojdyla, age 5, shakes hands with Santa Claus after his grand entrance at the tree lighting ceremony Friday. Lacie is accompanied by her father Kevin Wojdyla and sister Leanna Wojdyla, 18 months. (Sentinel photo by Stefan Matwijec)

LET THERE BE LIGHT ¿ The crowd in Veterans Park on North James Street looks at the Christmas tree moments after it was lit Friday evening. (Sentinel photo by Stefan Matwijec)

HOLIDAY SOUNDS ¿ Scott Rutledge directs the St. Joseph's & Community Adult Choir of Lee Center as they sing and sign Christmas songs for the public at Friday's holiday festivities downtown. (Sentinel photo by Stefan Matwijec)