Thousands made their way to Marktplatz to view the Christmas Tree and the iconic German Pyramid. Fredericksburg was recently named one of the best small towns to enjoy the Christmas season by Texas Monthly magazine. – Standard-Radio Post/Ken Esten Cooke

Santa and Mrs. Claus are welcomed to throw the switch at the annual Christmas Tree Lighting at Marktplatz by Ernie Loeffler, president and CEO of the Fredericksburg Convention and Visitor Bureau. The annual event brought out thousands to the town square to view the tree, German Pyramid, hear Christmas music and enjoy refreshments and visits with the first couple of the North Pole. – Standard-Radio Post/Ken Esten Cooke

Kay Kinchen, a travel counselor with the Fredericksburg Convention and Visitor Bureau, helps serve up cookies and hot chocolate at the annual tree lighting.

Ed Cook, left, and Al Holzscheiter hold down the low end on tuba as part of the Fredericksburg Community Orchestra.

Santa poses for a keepsake photo with Sophia Alcaraz, 19 months, of San Antonio.