Dozens of Brooklynites flocked to the MetroTech Commons in Downtown Brooklyn on Wednesday night for the annual Christmas tree lighting extravaganza — featuring a special appearance from Santa Claus himself!
Festive revlers watched in awe as Saint Nick propelled down from the end of a fire truck ladder to entertain the gathered youth — before holiday honchos lit up the 30-foot tree in bright lights, spreading holiday cheer throughout the pedestrianized walkway.
Attendees were also treated to a marvelous display of live ice carving by New York-based artists from the Okamoto Studio, who etched sculptures of bears, rabbits, reindeer, and more — which will remain in the Commons throughout the holiday season.
Bundled-up locals chowed down donuts and sipped hot chocolate while listening to lively samba-reggae drum performances by musicians from Batalá New York.
Locals can visit the massive tree — and the surrounding Christmas decor — at the center of the MetroTech Commons until New Years, according to reps with Brookfield Properties, who maintain the Commons.