WATCH: Strongsville Welcomes Christmas Season

The first snowflakes of the season flew during Strongsville's annual tree lighting ceremony on the City Commons Friday evening.

Mayor Tom Perciak counted down the official start to the city's holiday season, when the Winter Wonderland came to light, and welcomed Santa and Mrs. Claus, who arrived in style in a decked-out fire truck.

Elves and costumed characters mingled with kids on the Commons while they waited for a chance to chat with Santa in the gazebo.

For the second year in a row, there was also a fireworks display. 

The crowds were treated to free hot cocoa and cookies and rides in a horse-drawn wagon. Live reindeer made an appearance, as did an ice carver who used a chain saw to create a reindeer sculpture.

The event is sponsored by dozens of local business.

Check back with Strongsville Patch on Monday for a photo gallery from the event.