(Video) Hoover lights official city Christmas tree and welcomes Santa Claus

Crowds took in the sights and sounds from the annual Hoover Christmas tree lighting at the Hoover Municipal Center on U.S. 31.

The Spain Park High School Marching Band played, and The Riverchase Elementary School choir sang and welcomed Santa Claus, who arrived in a Hoover Fire Department fire engine.

Crowds milled around the tree after it was lit, enjoying falling artificial snowflakes and visits from Christmas-related characters. Light refreshments were served under a tent.