Michael, Erin, and Megan Roscoe, of Hollywood, pose with Santa – The Bay Net Photos by Mandy Echoff

On Friday evening a record crowd of over 5,000 from across St. Mary’s County turned out in Leonardtown for the annual Christmas tree lighting. It’s an event for which planning begins six months in advance.

For the little ones there were crafts and activities at a variety of stalls around the square, as well as stories, and – of course – Father Christmas himself. After lighting the Christmas tree a jovial St. Nic sat for pictures with the children.

Some locals arrived in style, aboard their antique cars. In the street people staved off the chill air with steaming hot chocolate. Ninety percent of the shops stayed open selling food beverages and offering the opportunity to continue some Black Friday shopping.

A live band performed amid the jingle of bells from the sleigh rides, and murmurs of merriment.

   
McKenna Simpson, of Charoltte Hall, gets her face painted                   Children enjoy stories