Staff reports 6:30 a.m.
Thursday, December 7, 2023 6:31 am

A crowd gathers in Central Square on Tuesday to celebrate the lighting of the city Christmas tree. (Courtesy photo)

ROCHESTER - It was better late than never on Tuesday as a large Rochester crowd gathered on Central Square to celebrate the lighting of the city's Christmas Tree.

The lighting, which normally happens on the Friday before the city's Christmas Parade, was postponed by the Rochester Chamber of Commerce due to rainy weather that was predicted.

The ceremony and fun-filled program got under way at 5:30 p.m.

The event included the reading of the Night Before Christmas by Mayor Paul Callaghan, the Lighting of the Christmas Tree, Caroling and Dance Performances, cookies and hot chocolate provided by Potter's House Bakery & Cafe, cookie decorating, a collection for the homeless and a special visit from Santa Claus.