Santa flips the switch on Libertyville's tree
A holiday tradition continued as the village of Libertyville held its annual tree-lighting ceremony Friday.
People enjoyed hot chocolate and listened to Christmas carols sung by students.
"The tree-lighting in downtown Libertyville is something that's on everyone's appointment calendar," said Connie Kowal, director of the Libertyville Sports Complex.
A crowd of about 2,000 people filled Cook Park to wait for Santa, who arrived on a Libertyville fire truck.
Santa counted down and flipped the switch to light the tree. He remained in the park for pictures.
"No matter what the conditions, everybody comes to downtown Libertyville for this annual event that kicks off the holiday season," Kowal added.
Downtown merchants also offered extended hours for evening shopping throughout the village.
Main Street Libertyville will continue the celebration on Dec. 5 and 12 with Dickens of a Holiday in Cook Park from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. both days.