Tree Lighting Ceremony, in pictures and video

UPDATE: Extra photos! Now to the main events: The Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on Town Square, part of holiday season…

For the first time, the Christmas Tree is given its very own illumination ceremony. As reported previously it’s a similar format to the classic shows, as Mickey Mouse lights up the giant tree with the help of a young child from the audience.

When the parade float pulls into Town Square and stops in front of the tree, the much larger group of characters dance to a medley of songs before the show’s live host, explains that the tree can only be illuminated by opening the magic book in front of them — which itself can only be opened by the hands of a child.

With the chosen child on the podium, the book opens in a sparkling glitter-ball effect, throwing beads of light all around Town Square as the tree gradually lights up.

Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony -in Video

And a wonderful view over the whole of Town Square, showing the set-up of the Tree Lighting Ceremony, with the float/stage parked in front of the tree for the ceremony.