FORT MYERS, Fla. -- Walk through downtown Fort Myers, and you'll feel the holiday spirit! The city kicked off its official Christmas celebration Saturday with a big tree lighting.

Mayor Randy Henderson, who is celebrating his 33rd wedding anniversary, made his way down the streets in a big horse drawn carriage. He was followed by Christmas music and the Lee County Junior Drill Team.

In preparation for this, it took a few days to get all the decorations up in downtown Fort Myers.

For many this tree lighting is a family affair.

"I hope that they think that Christmas is magical the way I've always grown up thinking Christmas is magical. So I hope that rubs off on them!" said Candi Nadekow.

"We've never done this before, this is new, this is our second year. We've never come to this, and it was great!" said Magdalene Leon.

The Christmas tree has been at this location by the river basin for the past three years. The lights will stay on all night, and all the decorations wont come down until after the New Year.