ANNISTON, Ala. —

Anniston marked the beginning of the holiday season with its annual tree lighting ceremony.

People gathered at City Hall Monday and were treated to free cookies and hot cocoa.

The event featured a special performance from the Anniston High School choir, and city officials highlighted its importance in fostering holiday spirit.

"The people of Anniston (have) put a lot of blood, sweat and tears into it and (so have) the city administration, staff, and past councils and so it gives us an opportunity to showcase what we have here, what we have downtown, and helps our friends and neighbors in Anniston celebrate all that we have to be proud of," said City Council member Lewis Downing.

After the city's Christmas tree was lit, the choir closed the evening with one final holid

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