<p>Photos by Teresa Pruitt</p> <p>It seemed as though magic was in the air Thursday during the annual Village Center Mall’s Christmas Tree Lighting event, as crowds gathered to watch the tree on the roof come to life with hundreds of multi-colored lights.</p>

<p>Immediately following the tree lighting event, the man of the hour (Santa Claus) showed up riding on a fire truck to take photos with all the boys and girls.</p>

<p>Harlan Elementary School fourth-grade choir members Harmony Stidhim, left, Miley Johnson, center, and Jailynn Shakleford showed excitement and enthusiasm as they waited for their class to go on stage for Christmas Caroling.</p>

<p>Bailey Turner and Bella Miniard waited patiently at the mall entrance for a glimpse of Santa.</p>