Knoxville kicked off the holiday season Thursday evening as residents filled the downtown square for the annual Living Windows celebration.

This year’s festivities began with a new tradition which featured Mayor Brian Hatch lighting a Christmas tree on the Marion County Courthouse lawn which was made by 3M by donated lights from the Knoxville Walmart. This years Living Windows theme was Christmas in Knoxville and was presented by the Mentor Study Club, THRIVE Knoxville and the Knoxville Chamber of Commerce. Windows of local businesses were decorated in the Christmas theme with larger windows featuring local school children and others entertaining passersby. A wreath auction was held inside the courthouse and local children had a chance to visit with Santa and Mr. Claus at Memorial Hall. The KNIA/KRLS Big Red Radio was at the event playing holiday music, and collecting donations for the 16th Annual KNIA/KRLS Holiday Food Drive. KNIA/KRLS was also playing Christmas music on-air today to recognize the beginning of the holiday season.