A long-standing Baltimore holiday tradition was renewed on Thursday with the annual lighting of the city's Washington Monument in Mount Vernon.

Thousands braved the chilly temperatures for the 54th version of the ceremony, which marks the unofficial start of Baltimore's holiday season.

The monument is lit up with 12,800 bulbs.

"We are out here to celebrate the Mount Vernon lighting ceremony," said visitor Delvon Jones. "It's the festivities as well as the great hot chocolate."

"It's the monument lighting, it's the place to be," added Patti Gavin. "I come to this every year that I am in town. The entertainment is killer, and it's beautiful."

Performances, vendors highlight Washington Monument Lighting

Baltimore celebrated the Washington Monument lighting with caroling, food, and other

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