YOUNGSTOWN - Hundreds of families gathered to watch the Youngstown Holiday parade downtown, moments before the tree lit up the city. But the fun didn’t stop there.

When the lights went on the tree, cheering was heard across the downtown.

It was a busy night with holiday festivities lasting for hours. There were activities and events for all ages.

Families spent the night shopping, eating food and even meeting Santa Claus. For some, including Youngstown mayor Tito Brown, lining up for the parade has become a tradition.

"Its getting bigger and better. It's a great opportunity for family and friends to come out. My thing, when I come to this, it's the kickoff to the holiday season. But it's also an opportunity to make memories with you and your family,” said Brown.

For others who wanted to kick off the holiday in Youngstown,  it's a new experience.

“This is my first time being here and I never saw it and I'm excited for the Christmas tree to light up,” said Harper Riley of Youngstown.

During the parade, school bands and members of the 21 News team marched alongside holiday characters. 

Andrew DiPaolo and Sydney Canty hosted the parade.

Each person downtown had a different reason  for loving the event.

“I just love the community and we have an amazing Christmas parade and I cannot miss out on that,” said Noah Thomas of Austintown.

“I'm excited to see the parade and get lots of candy,” said Bentley Signor of Youngstown.

Mason Gregory of Youngstown said his favorite part was seeing the tree light up downtown.

What stood out to Delaney Ausmann of Canfield is the decorations on the stage set up next to the parade.

The parade was just one of many attractions Friday night. 

Over at Oh Wow, children lined up, ready to tell Santa Claus what they want checked off their Christmas list.

People also did some holiday shopping at Flea on Phelps. Vendors sold anything from sweet treats to bandanas for pets.

The event brought crowds from Youngstown and surrounding communities.