Springfield, Mass. (WGGB) — Tis the season for Christmas tree lightings.  Two local communities started the weekend with some holiday spirit.

Holyoke held its tree lighting tonight, complete with horse-drawn carriage rides, rides on the Polar Express for kids, and a performance by students from the high school.

The city’s mayor says it was a great time and there’s only one other thing he could hope for.

“I wish it would be a little colder so that it would snow. It would be a little nicer, but people are still here, having a good time,” explains Holyoke Mayor Alex Morse.

Chicopee’s tree lighting was held at Santa’s Workshop at the corner of Exchange and Center Streets and included caroling, cookie decorating, face painting, and pictures with Santa!

Mayor Michael Bissonnettee told us, “It’s just terrific down here and it’s what Chicopee is all about.  It’s a family environment   This has become an annual tradition and we try to do it right.”

Chicopee’s celebration is put on through donations.