Enjoying weather that was far from frightful, thousands gathered to kickoff the holidays when the 40 th annual Vista Lights returned to downtown Columbia on Thursday night.

Showcasing more than 60 galleries, shops, and restaurants, the holiday event presented by Prisma Health once again included outdoor booths offering holiday treats for humans and reindeer alike, as well as an opportunity for children to visit with Santa.

Sounds of Christmas filled the air as everyone enjoyed live performances from local groups including the Southeastern Ballet School, the Southern Strutt, and the White Knoll High School Choir, but the highlight of the evening was the annual lighting of the Christmas tree which took place near the intersection of Gervais and Lincoln Streets around 7 p.m.

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