Historic Downtown Anoka is now on Santa’s radar.  Thousands of people gathered last weekend for the annual tree lighting ceremony.

More than seven thousand lights, donated by Dave and Donna Smith, lit up the tree.  It was selected this past summer after seven others were  considered.

Those attending the event were also treated to a fireworks display.  Bonfires, roasted marshmallows and hot chocolate kept the little ones warm after taking a ride on a horse drawn carriage.

The main event was the arrival of Mr and Mrs. Claus on a fire truck. Even though this is a very busy time at the North Pole, Santa stops by every year.

"He’s a busy man this time of year so we put the order in early, he always says yes and it’s a situation where the kids and families can come and have a chat, " says Peter Turok, president of the Anoka Area Chamber of Commerce.

The tree will remain standing through Christmas.  After that, it will be mulched for use in Anoka city parks.