Michigan Avenue got a whole lot merrier on Friday night. Mayor Brandon Johnson was among the onstage VIPs as thousands of gathered onlookers stood shoulder to shoulder in crowds that stretched down Michigan Avenue at Millennium Park for the lighting of Chicago’s official Christmas tree.

The holiday season in the Chicago area unofficially kicks off Friday evening, as the city's official Christmas tree will be lit downtown, beginning a weekend full of holiday events.

Some along the parade route said they were excited for another year of Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse flipping the switch to light up the Mag Mile.

Chicago's holiday season has unofficially arrived, with the city's Christmas tree being lit Friday as a weekend full of holiday events begins.

The day of festive fun culminates in what organizers say is the largest evening parade in the U.S., marking the beginning of the holiday season in Chicago.