Official start to Christmas in Georgetown with annual "Lighting of the Square"

Christmas officially arrived in Georgetown after an annual holiday tradition lit up downtown.

Thousands filled the square in Georgetown Friday night as Mayor Dale Ross flipped the switch lighting the courthouse and grounds, which was met with many cheers from the crowd. Tristan Arellano is one of the many who were at the lighting with her family, “It was pretty, and it seemed like they had a lot more lights this year,” she said.

The “Lighting of the Square” is held every year the Day After Thanksgiving when. Not only is it a tradition for the town, it’s one for many families, Including Tristan’s family from Round Rock. “We come out here as often as we can and kind of get into the season and put Thanksgiving behind us and get ready for Christmas,” said Thomas Arellano, Tristan’s father.

It was quite the turn out this year, as thousands packed the square. “There’s a lot, I mean we couldn’t even find a spot to park,” Tristan said. “It’s all about memories and tradition, to come out together and enjoy it and smiles, look at them, that’s what its about,” Thomas said.

Along with the lighting, many sang along with The Austin Carolers to favorite holiday tunes, and it wouldn't have been a proper Christmas event without the big man. Santa was on hand to take pictures and start getting his wish list from little ones.