With the flip of a switch, the 25-foot-tall conifer in the middle of Railroad Plaza in Lansdale lit up Friday night, signifying the start of the Christmas 2012 season in the borough.

Residents of all ages and sizes packed a cordoned-off Madison Street, as Santa Claus, Little Miss Lansdale and Mayor Andy Szekely helped usher in the holiday season.

The annual tree lighting also occurred during a special Discover Lansdale First Friday. Lansdale Business Association's Holiday Christmas Tree Display also opened its doors to the public at 311 W. Main St.

Check out our photo gallery for all the joyful cheer from Friday. And be sure to add your own photos and videos too.