Photo by Sally Y. Hart

The holiday lights are up for the season around downtown Washington, and they were turned on for the year with some magical help from Santa Saturday night.

Showcasing Nights of Washington featured the lighting ceremony and lighted holiday parade Saturday. Now Santa’s house is officially open through December 22nd. Families can visit Santa at his stop in downtown Washington every Thursday, Saturday, or Sunday now through December 22nd. Click here for the full schedule.