The second annual Christmas tree lighting held at the Buffalo Civic Center saw a packed crowd enjoying booths set up with Kona Ice and crafts, local entertainment and rides for the kids; Santa made an appearance, with kids taking pictures in between train rides and S’mores making.

“It was so amazing to see everyone supporting our small town,” junior Briana Leon said. “It was my first year going to the event, and there were so many activities and things to see. It was a fun night.”

The Edge Dance company from Fairfield brought some of their teams to perform, along with the Buffalo band.

“We have been preparing for this event for a few months now and we were so honored when the mayor asked us to come perform,” owner of Edge Dance Company Ann Hunt said. “This event was a huge success and I’m so glad we got to be a part of it.”

Along with the bounce houses there was a zip line and spiral slide set up for the kids. Ezell Air conditioning donated two carnival rides for the event and it was free admission for everyone.

“We love being a part of these kinds of things that are all for the community,” owner Tim Ezell said. “Last year was a big success, so we wanted to add a little more to this year so we can just keep on growing over the years.”

Pictures with Santa by the tree were available as were pictures with the Grinch. The tree will stay lit until after the new year and everyone is welcome to go take pictures anytime.

“I brought my sister and cousins over before the night ended and the snow slide was the best,” freshman Nicole Virgin said. “You got on a tube and raced down the hill, it was like last winter all over again.”

There were cookies, hot cocoa, and many baked goods offered throughout the night. The fire department was there as were several small businesses with goodies for the kids.

“My favorite part of the night was the elf on stilts that was making balloon animals,” sophomore Emma Cocking said. “The coolest thing I saw was a Santa hat he made for one of the kids.”