TIFTON — The 19th annual Hometown Holidays Christmas Celebration was held Dec. 2 throughout downtown Tifton.

The Christmas parade began at 5 p.m. at the corner of 2nd Street and Magnolia Drive.

The parade lasted from 5 p.m. until approximately 6:50 p.m.

 After the parade, the downtown opened up for the celebration. All of the entertainment and activities were free to the public.

There were four stages scattered throughout the celebration area. The main stage, located between Ameris Bank and City Hall, hosted the opening ceremonies beginning with the lighting of the tree by parade Grand Marshals Dr. Homer and Caroline Day.

Mia Savelli sang the national anthem while Staff Sergeant John Anderson from the United States Army recruiting office presented the colors.

Following the lighting of the tree, the 110th CSSB Georgia National Guard gave away free toys to children while supplies lasted.

In addition to the live entertainment available at each of the four stages, there was free ice skating, carnival rides and a zip line, as well as vendors, local dining and shopping at many downtown locations which remained open late specifically for the downtown celebration.