More than 40 years ago, the Christmas tradition of lighting the tree in Wheeler Park on McCulloch Boulevard in Lake Havasu City began when Edward Federico planted the iconic symbol of the season.

Sunday night, the tradition continued when Radio Central hosted the annual tree lighting.

Families came to Wheeler Park to celebrate and enjoy all the festivities.

Mayor Cal Sheehy read “The Night Before Christmas” and Santa Claus was escorted to the celebration by the Lake Havasu City Fire Department.

“It is an honor to keep the tradition of the holiday season as we celebrate the 45^th annual lighting,” Sheehy said.

A special thank you to the Lake Havasu City Parks Department for decorating Wheeler Park for the holiday season.

Here are some photos of the event.

Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Jillian Danielson/RiverScene