TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Downtown Tampa was transformed into a twinkling winter wonderland Saturday night as seven Christmas trees were lit up along the waterfront.

This year marked the 44th annual Santa Fest and Tree Lighting, with more than four decades of holiday fun.

Mayor Jane Castor and News Channel 8’s Paola Suro led the countdown for the tree lighting at 6:25 p.m. at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park.

However, the festivities kicked off a little earlier around 1 p.m. as several colorful floats, marching bands, dancing groups, and even Santa Claus himself, made their way through downtown Tampa for the Santa Fest Parade.

Guests were also treated to a concert with many familiar Christmas favorites. Dancers dazzled the crowds, and SuperStar Cortni, who just released her second Christmas album, captivated those along the waterfront with a performance featuring many holiday classics.

After all seven trees were aglow in colors of red, blue, green and white, the holiday fun continued with a showing of the beloved flick, “Home Alone.”

Tampa’s Santa Fest and Tree Lighting media partners include WFLA News Channel 8, The Dove 105.5, Tampa Bay Times, and Clear Channel Outdoor.

The event is produced on behalf of the City of Tampa by the Friends of Tampa Recreation, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to supporting and advocating for the City of Tampa Parks and Recreation Department.