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South Florida Lighting Up For The Holiday Season

MIAMI (CBSMiami) – It may be just before Thanksgiving, but Santa Claus is already stopping by South Florida for a visit.

The Village of Merrick Park in Coral Gables, hosted their annual tree lighting to kick off the 2013 holiday season Thursday from 6:30 pm until 8:30 pm.

The event, now in its 11th year, featured live entertainment, special performances by the Coral Gables High School Choir, as well as other holiday-themed appearances. Also, Father Christmas, Santa Claus himself, stopped by for a visit.

Guests were encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy to the event for the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots Foundation gift drive.

The holidays didn't just getting started in Coral Gables tonight, but just north, in Ft. Lauderdale, Riverwalk  hosted their fifth annual Light Up Lauderdale  in Esplanade Park.

The event, a family friendly affair, featured a performance by the Girls Choir of South Florida, sleigh rides, face paintings, and a Santa who popped in for a visit as well.

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