The Fort Belvoir community welcomed in the holiday season Friday with the annual tradition known as the tree-lighting ceremony.
More than 200 people bundled up and listened to the Children's Choir and Brass Quintet who filled the Belvoir Chapel grounds with sound.
Parents and caregivers brought their children, some decked out in festive, holiday clothes, to the event in blankets, wagons and strollers. One child even gripped onto a stuffed Rudolph toy, complete with lighted nose.
Becky Walenda brought her children, Janie, 4, and Joshua, 2, to usher in the season. Janie said she asked Santa for a Playmobile castle.
Spec. Alisha Jerez of HHC 29th ID also brought her children, Makayla, 4, and Miraya. As Makayla enjoyed a candy cane, her mom said they came to be part of the festivities. "I thought it'd be fun to be here, to see Santa and to see the lights. They love the lights," she said.
After the switch was flipped, illuminating the ornament-adorned tree - the event's focal point - the children seemed to quiet a bit in anticipation of the arrival of Santa Claus. He joined the crowd by being pulled by four dogs from the Greater Washington Siberian Husky Club.
Then, children and adults alike lined up to get a glimpse of Santa. Some even were able to talk to him in person and let him know how good they've been throughout the year.
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