People looking to celebrate the start of the holiday season had no shortage of tree lighting ceremonies Saturday. There were at least six of them, probably more, across the community.
Trees were lit on Bailey Avenue, at the Buffalo Zoo, Martin Luther King Jr. Park, Rotary Rink downtown and Canalside. The 28th Hospice Buffalo "Light-a-Life" Memorial Tree was illuminated on the front lawn of CTG on Delaware Avenue.
Mayor Byron Brown said he revels in seeing thousands of people enjoying outdoor activities during the holiday season.
"Literally, thousands of people are out, ringing in the holidays," Brown said. "It's a wonderful thing to see in our city."
At Rotary Rink downtown, the tree lighting was followed by fireworks. There was also ice skating and amusement rides, plus the kids were given a chance to visit with Santa Claus.
Before arriving at Rotary Rink, Mayor Brown attended the sixth annual tree lighting at Canalside downtown. Fans leaving the Sabres game, combined with people attending the tree lighting, made for a festive scene with thousands milling around Canalside for the celebration.