Image by xmaslights.jpg

The Holiday season officially started in Charleston on Saturday with the turning on of the lights on the Christmas tree in Marion Square.

Mayor Joseph P. Riley, Jr. teamed up with his usual sidekick -- Santa -- to kick off Charleston's Christmas season, while entertainment from The Charleston Community Band and performances from The Company Company entertained families on a chilly afternoon. There was even an appearance from a real live Arabian camel.

But soon a puff of smoke would signal Santa's appearance to start three weeks of holiday festivities.