Milwaukee residents celebrate holiday season at Garden District's annual tree lighting ceremony

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MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- A holiday tradition continued Tuesday night as Winter Wonderland in Milwaukee's Garden District brought a good-sized crowd out on a cold night. People enjoyed some free holiday snacks, hot chocolate and of course, a tree lighting.

The tree lighting started eight years ago here in the Garden District at 6th and Norwich, by Ald. Terry Witkowski. That street is now named in his honor.

Just steps away from that honorary street sign renaming Norwich for Alderman Terry Witkowski, the mood is bittersweet, in memory of the man who created the event.

"Terry unfortunately passed about a month ago from a bout with cancer, and it's just wonderful to see his tradition continues on, especially in his honor," said Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson.

Local choirs, one by one, brought holiday cheer to onlookers who bundled up for the chilly occasion, entertaining them against a backdrop of thousands of lights. Even the youngest attendees couldn't help but move to the beat.

"She does like music, and she does her little dances, and we, yeah, she's a special little one," said Penny Wallock of her daughter, Alice.

It's an especially special night for 19-month-old Alice, who was born with a rare genetic disorder.

"So we didn't take her out last year. So this is her first Christmas," said Penny Wallock.

Santa was a big draw. So was the hot chocolate.

"What do you think about Santa coming here tonight?"

"I can't wait," said 6-year-old Winona Vandervort.

"It's a thrill, actually. The kids love it," said Tom Vandervort, attendee.

Tom and Linda Vandervort have made this a yearly tradition with their grandkids.

"It's a little cold but it's not as cold as it was last year," said Lori Vandervort.

And when all was said and done, this is what everyone waited for:

"Three, two, one!" the crowd shouted as the tree was lit for the first time.

"This has been a great source of pride for the neighbors, folks don't have to go downtown to Cathedral Square, they have a little piece in their own backyard," said Milwaukee 13th District Alderman Scott Spiker.

This festive showcase, with 140 lighted displays and a beautiful tree, will be here through Jan. 3.

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