"O Christmas Tree!"

The near-freezing temperatures couldn't put a stop to the heart-warming Christmas spirit as local residents gathered once again to ring in the holiday season with the age-old tradition of illuminating the Severna Park Christmas tree.

The evening's events started promptly at 5 p.m. with a performance by professional bagpiper Michael Binnie, who serenaded and inspired mingling guests with the classic sounds of the Christmas season.

Santa Claus was even strolling around to hear wish lists and oblige himself in photographs to the delight of children.

The talented young members of the Severna Park Elementary School Chorus took to the stage to perform a selection of holiday classics, including the highly anticipated favorite "O Christmas Tree!"

As the young choir performed, Santa's 'elves' got to work lighting the 10-foot tall holly tree that was elegantly trimmed with ribbons, berries, and dozens of homemade pinecone-birdfeeders which were carefully handcrafted by Girl Scout Troop 2092.

These dutiful youngsters also played quite an important role in providing hot cider, cookies, and other tasty treats and refreshments to guests who had chosen to escape the wintry chill by bunkering themselves inside the chamber of commerce building.

Those who found themselves waiting in line for these delicious delicacies were yet again serenaded, only this time by Chamber of Commerce member and experienced flautist, Gino Mezzapelle, who played beautiful renditions of "O Come All Ye Faithful," "O Holy Night," and many other holiday staples.

Back outside, following the choir's performance, a group of young dancers from the Maryland Performing Arts Center fought the chilly air in their costumes to perform a few beautiful dance numbers in a designated dance stage.

Tours of the Severna Park Model Railroad club's elaborate train display were available throughout the event.

Guests then headed over to  Park Plaza for one last chance for eager young children to meet with Santa and assure him that they deserve a spot on the 'nice' list this year.