Government officials joined community leaders and members of the Rochester fire and police departments for an annual event in northeast Rochester: the lighting of the tree at North Clinton and Clifford Avenues.
This is the 12th year for the celebration, something North Clinton Avenue Business Association president Albert Algarin helped start when he found out years ago that some children in that neighborhood didn't have a tree for Christmas.
He says work continues to transform that neighborhood.
Mayor Tom Richards said the tree with all its lights symbolizes the progress that has been made in that community.
The event also featured students from schools 9 and 20 singing holiday songs.
Here's video of Santa arriving at the scene:
http://youtu.be/cmoeXAo1VRM