VIDEO: Santa, Kids Flip Switch to Light Up Troy

Residents young and old braved the cold Wednesday night as they gathered for a holiday tradition in Troy – the annual .

The event, held in front of , featured caroling by the two choirs, directed by Michele Marszalkowski, and the Colts Drumline, which escorted Santa into the event.

Kim Norman took a break in the tent as she rocked her son's daughter, Riley. Norman attended the tree lighting not only to see her daughter, who performed as part of the Troy Athens choir, but also to take part in a Troy tradition that she believes helps bring the community together.

"I just think it's a nice start of the Christmas season and nice for the community," Norman said.

Despite budget cuts bringing an end to some city programs, Troy Community Affairs Director Cindy Stewart said the tree-lighting event continues thanks to , which sponsored this year's event and provided the hot cocoa and treats.

Linda Zabik, manager of public relations for Genisys, said the event seemed to be a big success.

"I think it's great. People are so excited about it, the kids are having fun," she said. "It's a great opportunity to bring the community together to kick off the holiday season."

Local pageant winner Elizabeth Hawthorne, named Miss Lady of the Lakes, greeted residents at the tree lighting.

"I like to help out in any way that I can," said the Clarkston resident, who works closely with Genisys Credit Union for volunteer opportunities.

Christina Thomas of Troy attended the event with her husband and two young children. She said she wanted to get her older daughter, 2-year-old Makaila, into the holiday spirit.

"She loves the lights!" Thomas said.

Troy resident Kim Sandy attended the event with her 10-year-old daughter Katelyn and her daughter's friend, 11-year-old Catherine.

"It's an annual event in Troy," said Sandy, who tries to attend the tree lighting every year.

Katelyn added that the event is "really fun."

"It makes it feel like Christmas," Catherine said.

The Douglas fir outside City Hall, which serves as the city's Christmas tree, was donated about five years ago by in Troy, Stewart said. Until then, the city didn't have an official tree for its annual holiday lights.