An annual tradition took place on Friday night in City Beautiful, a clear sign the holiday season has arrived in Central Florida.

• The Orlando Tree Lighting Celebration starts at 5 p.m.
• Mayor Byer will lead countdown to lighting at 7 p.m.
• Celebration will also have live entertainment and food trucks

Spectrum News 13 was there at Lake Eola Park ahead of Orlando's Tree Lighting Celebration. Residents and visitors from all over were invited to attend the free event.

The highlight of the festivities was the lighting of a 72-foot tall Christmas tree.

There are more than 7,000 ornaments and thousands of LED lights to see.  

Mayor Buddy Dyer led the countdown to lighting at almost 7:30 p.m., which was followed by a synchronized light and music show with the tree and Lake Eola fountain.

There was entertainment going on, with band and choir performances on the schedule, as well as food trucks and a holiday market for Orlando’s 10th annual celebration.  

Spectrum News 13 talked to one woman about why she got to this show so early.

“To get a good spot and a good seat, and I had been wanting this seat every time I came, and I finally got this seat this but I got it ... I ain't got to go nowhere ... right here … front row!" said Sylvia Smith, an Orlando resident.

Santa will be here until 9 p.m. at the Eola House for kids to meet on this big night for Orlando.