Ontario held its annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony Thursday evening with close to 300 people in attendance.

  The popular event began eight years ago when the Ontario Growth Association planted the tree. The first year 300 lights adorned the tree. Now, 1,500 lights are used.

  "We try to add a new twist every year with something different," Ontario Growth Association Member Mark Weidemyre said. "The community enjoys it and we enjoy doing it. That's part of the mission of the Growth Association's, is to give back to the community."

  Santa arrived to the popular event by sneaking in and surprising the kids.  Old Saint Nick even lit the Christmas tree this year.

 "It's a lot of hard work but it's all worth while when you walk in and see the kids faces like that," Weidemyre said. 

 The Ontario Growth Association sponsors the tree lighting ceremony, which also includes an ornament contest, music provided by the Ontario Jazz Band as well as cookies and refreshments.