Magnificent Mile Lights Festival kicks off holiday season
CHICAGO (WLS) -- Hundreds of thousands of people packed Michigan Avenue Saturday night for the BMO Harris Bank Magnificent Mile Lights Festival.
PHOTOS: Magnificent Mile Lights
Along with Minnie and Goofy, Mickey Mouse - grand marshal of the parade - got a great reception from the fans lined up along Michigan Avenue.
Mickey brought plenty of friends to this party, including Elsa and Anna from Frozen, lots of marching bands and music acts.
Dee Snider, the lead singer of the band Twisted Sister, and even the Jackie Robinson West Little League team made appearances.
It's an eclectic mix, but it is pure Chicago. The festival was conceived as a way to market the Magnificent Mile and help kick off the Christmas shopping season, and it's become a tradition for many families.
"It's just how we start the Christmas holiday season," said Sheri Kennay. "We come down and watch the lights and visit Santa for the first time, do a little shopping."
Organizers say it's all designed for families.
"It's the largest family-friendly event that I think is produced in the city and the excitement of the little ones, it just gives you a charge," said John Chikow, North Michigan Avenue Association.
Santa met with kids in Pioneer Court earlier in the day and then was the guest of honor in the parade, to the delight of his many fans.
"It's a day that really kicks off the holidays for Chicago and it's particularly special to us being part of the city," said Justine Fedak, BMO Harris.
The parade was capped off with a spectacular fireworks display on the Chicago River.
