KANNAPOLIS — Christmas in Kannapolis is officially underway.

The official kick-off was Saturday, Nov. 16, when Santa arrived from the North Pole to light the city’s Christmas tree in Village Park. Thousands of people enjoyed the event, which included fireworks.

The Celebration of Lights and Winterland Express will continue to be open at Village Park through Dec. 30.

The annual tradition of the Celebration of Lights includes hundreds of thousands of twinkling lights in dozens of displays throughout Village Park. Adults and children are welcome to ride one of two Winterland Express trains and count down the 12 Days of Christmas while viewing holiday light displays from the popular song.

Attendees will also be able to ride the Village Park double decker carousel. Manufactured in Italy, it features 1,800 lights, Brazilian oak decking, and charming hand painted Venetian murals.

Santa Claus will be at the park every evening for children of all ages to visit and have their photo made for free.

Throughout the month of December area choirs, a holiday marketplace with area artisans, and various local food trucks will also be on hand.

Food and drink are available for purchase at the concession stand. Enjoy the fire pit and making s’mores.

Admission to the park and viewing of the lights and bears is free; tickets are required to ride the carousel and train. Tickets are $2 per person for the train and $2 per person for the carousel. Purchase carousel tickets onsite at Village Park. They will be available on a first-come basis each evening. Reserve seats on the Winterland Express Sunday through Thursday, by purchasing tickets online at www.kannapolisnc.gov/Christmas. Every Friday and Saturday tickets may be purchased onsite at Village Park on a first-come basis for the Winterland Express.