MT. MORRIS -- The city of Mt. Morris rang in the holiday season in style Friday night.
The event began downtown with a tree-lighting ceremony Mayor Dan Lavelle led.
Participating businesses along Saginaw and Mt. Morris streets were covered in holiday gift wrap that later revealed murals underneath painted by Mt. Morris students. Organizers said it's an effort to encourage residents to shop locally this holiday season.
The Mt. Morris High School band played holiday tunes as families crowded the downtown area for various activities including face-painting, cookie decorating, Santa bowling and story time.