Bronxites’ spirits were merry and bright for this year’s holiday season. The holiday season opened in the Bronx with a marching band, the lighting of a 25-foot Christmas tree and a visit from Jolly Old St. Nick at the Mall at Bay Plaza’s inaugural Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday, November 17.

King (l) and Maranda Ashkar, Mall at Bay Plaza director of mall management and marketing, lit the massive Christmas tree.
Photo by Miriam Quin

(l-r) Councilman King, Mrs. Claus, Santa Claus and Senator Jamaal Bailey wished Bronxites of all ages a happy holiday season.
Photo by Miriam Quin

Many Broxnites eagerly awaited the Mall’s Inaugural Tree Lighting Ceremony to begin.
Photo by Miriam Quin

King had a holly jolly time celebrating the holidays with residents.
Photo by Miriam Quin

Pete Nagasar, assistant director of security at Bay Plaza, wished everyone a happy holiday.
Photo by Miriam Quin